Zeyn’el – Divan and Divine (ARC Music, 2023)
Zeyn’el’s latest musical endeavor, “Divan and Divine” released under ARC Music in 2023, presents a remarkable fusion of Western tones and Turkish-Anatolian motifs, encapsulating the enduring narrative of social injustice that has plagued Anatolia and Turkey for centuries.
The album transcends boundaries, weaving a tapestry of beautifully rich and multidimensional melodies, delicately intertwined with influences from Central Asia, the Middle East and Americana from North America.
Zeyn’el, with an unwavering dedication to honoring and preserving the Turkish “Aşık-ozan” (poet musician) tradition, eloquently expresses his objective of introducing this ancient cultural treasure to the contemporary world. However, in order to accomplish this formidable task, Zeyn’el recognizes the necessity of delving into the very essence of the tradition, unearthing the profound philosophical depths embedded within Turkish folk songs and the poignant messages they convey.
The songs that grace the album find their inspiration in the poems of Anatolian minstrels from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Yet, remarkably, these compositions transcend time and space, resonating with the modern struggles and prejudices endured by countless individuals today. Building upon the foundation laid by his ancestors, Zeyn’el weaves his own original compositions, delving into similar issues that continue to plague contemporary society.
Symbolically, the album artwork represents the notion that true justice can only be impartial, free from the shackles of prejudice. This timeless concept, universally embodied by the image of a blindfold, becomes a visual testament to Zeyn’el’s unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice. Despite the weightiness of the subject, the musical explorations on “Divan and Divine” features ethereal vocals and intricate string arrangements.
Marking its arrival on June 2nd, 2023, the first single, “Ela Gözlü Pirim Geldi,” serves as a poignant ode to historical injustice, recounting the horrific execution of the poet Seyid Imadeddin-Nesimi. Furthermore, through his original composition, “Sevmedi Beni Sevmeyi,” Zeyn’el fearlessly sheds light on the harrowing issues of child abuse within and beyond the borders of Turkey, as well as the pervasive abuse and violence suffered by women in his homeland and across the globe.
The profound and intricate lessons embedded within these ancient folk songs ignited a fire within the young Zeyn’el, compelling him to embark on a path of philosophical exploration during his undergraduate studies. As a Turkish indie-folk singer, songwriter, and collaborator, Zeyn’el’s talents have flourished, nurtured by his deep immersion in the Anatolian “Aşık-ozan” traditions from an early age.
Today, Zeyn’el’s pursuit of knowledge and musical expertise continues, as he diligently pursues a Ph.D. in musicology at Istanbul Technical University. With over a decade of experience as a sound engineer in the Turkish rock music scene, Zeyn’el has collaborated with notable artists, including Mirkelam, Madrigal, Leman Sam, Evrencan Gündüz, Can Ozan, Batuhan Kordel, and Su Soley. His prominence within this vibrant and impassioned community has afforded him the opportunity to grace renowned Turkish venues such as Alt Caz, Shaft, Indigo, and Hayal Kahvesi Beyoğlu.
Using instruments such as the banjo, ukulele, guitar, and his modified merlin dulcimer, Zeyn’el has tailored his tuning style to embrace the melodies of Anatolian music.
Band Members: Ergin Kandemir: guitars, keyboards, merlin; Özer Ateş: bass, double bass, fretless bass; Burak Taşdemir: drums; Canay Doğan: jaw harp, keyboard, vocals; Çisem Soylu: vocals; F. Belma Oğul: vocals; Yarkın Sezgin: guitar; Kerem Aslan: percussion; Banjoe Danger: banjo; Onur Şekercioğlu: piano & keyboards; Merih Aşkın: aşkın sazı, dede sazı, sipsi, fretless guitar; Zeyn’el: vocal, banjo, merlin, ukulele.
Buy Divan and Divine.
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.