Customer Reviews

Winter Kolednica: Seasonal Carols from Slovenia

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I ordered this CD because my husband is of Slovenian descent. I know very little about Slovenia, and I love Christmas music, so I bought this CD mostly out of curiosity.

It is mostly historical recordings made in the 20th century. It really captures the feeling that one is out in the Slovenian countryside, listening to the country-folk (mostly men) sing their traditional songs.

This is NOT a recording of anything that the typical American will find familiar. This is very "old world", with mostly acapella arrangements that are by no means lush or polished.

Don't buy this to put on at the end of a tough day, or to soothe you while you fight holiday traffic. (Selections such as "Blood From the Butchering" will certainly not aid relaxation!)

But it is an excellent example of the fascinating range of musical traditions and styles our world has to offer.

I recommend this recording to anyone interested in Eastern European folk traditions.

I gave this CD to my mother last Christmas on a whim, and it turns out that I hit a home-run with that gift.

My mother is in her 70s, and has lived all her life in Canada, but has always been Nostalgic for the Slovenian folk-singing traditions she experienced in her youth. The CD was an instant hit, and she continues to play it almost daily (it is now July).

As described by reviewer Coventina, these are very simple arrangements - most likely only to be appreciated by those with a connection to Slavic folk music, so if that applies to you or to someone you have in mind for a gift, I highly recommend it.