Hysterrae – Hysterrae (Linfa, 2023)
Hysterrae’s eponymous album, released in 2023 under the Linfa label, is a magnificent collaborative effort by four gifted women from diverse ethnic and musical backgrounds. This transcendent project seamlessly weaves together the talents of acclaimed world music artists, taking the audience on a mesmerizing journey from Iran to Campania, Valle d’Itria to Salento, and beyond.
Hysterrae skillfully interweaves rhythms, evocative polyphonic voices, and elements of dub and trancy EDM (electronic dance music). This spellbinding fusion creates a precious and beautiful experience that transcends temporal boundaries. That is to say, it transports the audience to both the rituals of ancient times and the contemporary electronic tribalism.
Hysterrae includes Cinzia Marzo, the founder and vocalist-flutist of Officina Zoè, the iconic Salento pizzica band. Next, Shadi Fathi, a luminary in Iranian classical and traditional music, who skillfully handles the tar, setar, and daf. Meanwhile, Irene Lungo, former singer with Edoardo Bennato and Opa Cupa, contributes her vocal talents; whereas Silvia Gallone, a versatile singer and multi-instrumentalist, adds her unique touch with vocals, frame drums, and percussion, drawing from her experience with Officina Zoè and Orchestra Popolare Notte della Taranta.
The overall atmosphere of Hysterrae is expertly curated by the producer, sound engineer, and electronic music maestro Emanuele Flandoli. The album’s title, Hysterrae, deliberately underscores the band’s conceptual foundation. Derived from the ancient Greek term “hyster,” meaning the mother’s womb, it metaphorically alludes to the Earth’s womb (“terrae” in Latin). This choice emphasizes the band’s exploration beyond the confines of ethnic boundaries, conveying a profound message of unity; a recognition that all beings are interconnected as part of the great host, Mother Earth.
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Author: Ryan Emmert
