You want a mix of cultures? This lady does what governments have been failing at for years-bringing peace and understanding between Greece and Turkey. Vocalist Cigdem Aslan sings in Greek and Turkish on this collection of songs from the early 20th Century along with traditional instruments such as the clarinet, finger cymbals, guitar, bouzouki, baglama and violin. The music mixes folk music for listening to in smoky clubs, such as the enchanting “Nenni (Lullaby)” or sounds for forming a circle with your friends, slapping the bottom of your foot and doing a dance as on “Aman Katerina Mou.” Aslan’s voice is rich, earthy and penetrating, as sweet as a watermelon and as strong as a demitasse of coffee at mid afternoon. The intoxicating rhythms on “Bir Allah” and “Pane Gia To Praso” will make your head swirl like the flavors in a Greek kitchen. Even though you won’t understand the words (yes, there are translations in the enclosed booklet), it won’t matter, as you can feel what Aslan’s saying in a way that words can’t describe. Get her on a tour to So Cal! Opa!
Asphalt Tango Records
www.asphalt-tango.com