CD Review: Volga's 'Kumushki Pjut'

Volga
Kumushki Pjut
Asphalt Tango Records

Led by Armenian, Anzhelika Manukyan, Volga reinvents the traditional music of Russia using delicate house, dance, trance, and dub sounds that effervesce with soothing melodies and punchy rhythms. The Russian group resurrects ancient texts and performs them in modern contexts. The group comprises of Grammy Winner, Uri Balashov on zvukosuk and Tibetan cup, Alexey Ostashev on bass guitar, Sergei Klevensky on jaleika and bagpipe, and Roman Lebedev on guitar and electronic arrangements. Anzhelika is the lead vocalist. The poignant rhythms and electronic overtones are carefully selected and executed for a great result that is never too over-the-top. The mix of historical roots, modern rhythms, and various instruments make for a great album. The lilting melodies of "Kaverzi" appropriately demonstrates Anzhelika's emotive vocals and the sauntering guitar arrangements in a laid-back setting. "Postylyi Muzh" contains a pulsating rock guitar beat as an opener with recurring beats throughout. "Mala Nochka" possesses a cheery rhythm with rollicking bass, guitar, and percussion that eloquently accents the subtle electronic touches. Overall, Volga is one of the best groups to come out of Russia in recent memory. Enjoy it for yourself! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Various Artists' 'Kyzyl-Moscow III'

Various Artists
Kyzyl-Moscow III
Sketis Music

This collection of Tuvan throat-singing music spans twenty tracks and numerous, well-known artists from the region. You will hear the Tuvan Ensemble, Eduard Damdyn, Vadim Oorzhak, Ayas Kuular, Evgeny Saryglar, and Mai-ool Sedip. There are sung melodies, as well a throat singing accompaniment throughout. There are plenty of traditional instruments backing the vocals, including the igil, chanzy, kengirge, dungur, byzaanchi, and doshpuluur. These instruments are various percussion and string accompaniments that accentuate the gritty and soaring vocals. Kyzyl-Moscow is actually a festival held every year in Moscow since 2004. It was organized by George Arat Beletsky--a talented producer, musician, and music promoter. Anyone interested in the effervescent melodies of Tuvan instrumental music and throat-singing styles should check out Kyzyl-Moscow III. Very listenable. ~ Matthew Forss