In this unique gathering of folk music from Sweden and Baluchistan*, one is struck by the similarities between the two styles, but above all, by how well the differences complement each other. The song traditions have been brought together and have been entwined, the Orient’s saut with the melody from the North. It introduces the nyckelharpa and benju in a sonorous ensemble, where the Swedish polka dance meets the sepanjegi.
When the musicians Rostam Mirlahari, Ulrika Bodén, Niklas Roswall and Abdulrahman Surizehi work together, sentimental love songs, intoxicated drinking songs and quick flowing dance music emerge – three everlasting themes the world over.
Rostam and Ulrika began singing together many years ago when they were both teachers for the folk music course in Hovra. Their work together developed and eventually they decided to invite their favorite musicians, respectively, to join them and create a quartet. Abdulrahman and Niklas both joined and the “Sheida Orchestra” was founded.
*Baluchistan is a province of east Iran that stretches into Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
