CD Review: Amira Medunjanin's 'Silk & Stone'

Amira Medunjanin
Silk & Stone
World Village

Hailing from Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Amira Medunjanin is a sensational singer that brings a neo-operatic tone to the mix. The folk songs are punctuated by jazzy stlyings, world travels, and relaxing vocal elements. The breezy songs are emotive and full of beauty. The nine tracks contain scintillating guitars with oud, piano, kanun, and double bass for a truly delectable release. The poignant vocals are clear, powerful, and mature. The plaintive ensemble instruments are very moving with instrumental sections that abound throughout the album. Fans of Balkan opera, folk music, and European music will love Silk & Stone. The music is smooth like silk and solid as a stone without any deficiencies. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Robert Soko and His BalkanBeats' 'BalkanBeats Soundlab'

Robert Soko and His Balkan Beats
BalkanBeats Soundlab
Piranha

Bosnian Balkan-beat master, Robert Soko, presents an array of musicians that know how to perform danceable, Balkan beats. You will hear Watcha Clan, Slavic Soul Party, Besh O Drom, Romzil, Los Colorados, Shukar Collective, Antwerp Gipsy Ska Orkestra, Florian Mikuta, Mode Plagal, Deladap, and others. This is one wild ride into the contemporary world of Balkan music. Nothing is left undone here. There are wild rhythms, boisterous horns, and seemingly cacophonous musical wanderings. However, the result is much more focused and purposeful. There are vocals on some of the tracks, but the instrumental abilities win out hands down. Anyone interested in the skittish Balkan beats and loud horns will love Robert Soko’s selections and mixes. Balkan DJs rejoice and world music fans unite for an unforgettable, foot-stomping, and heart-pounding journey through Europe’s musical corridor. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Natasa Mirkovic and Nenad Vasilic's 'Soulmotion'

Natasa Mirkovic and Nenad Vasilic
Soulmotion
Galileo Records

Natasa Mirkovic is Bosnian and Nenad Vasilic is Serbian, but they are based in Vienna, Austria. The folk duo create a set of songs that are interpretations of classic songs from Yugoslavia originally composed in the 1970s and 80s. Nenad, a jazz bassist, fills in the sound with punchy playing that would light up any classical or jazz ensemble. Nenad is accompanied by Natasa on vocals. Natasa's voice is heartfelt, but not too obtrusive or over-the-top. Instead, Natasa brings a youthful, spirited, and intelligent mix of vocals that would be perfect for a lounge club or jazz club. The twelve songs are only accompanied on vocals and upright bass. No other instrumentation is employed. The result is a raw, intimate, and candid music session that is very enjoyable. Anyone with an interest in Yugoslavian music and jazz will love the cozy vocal wanderings of Natasa Mirkovic and her bass partner, Nenad Vasilic. ~ Matthew Forss