Aylin’s Soulgarden – Bu Bir Demdir (CPL Music, 2024)
Aylin’s Soulgarden, an innovative German band that fuses deeply grounded Alevi music with the modern sounds of pop, jazz, psychedelia, and electronica, is set to release its debut album, Bu Bir Demdir, on October 25, 2024. The band’s music is a profound exploration of Anatolian musical traditions, reimagining the poetry of revered Alevi figures like Muhyiddin Abdal and Pir Sultan through a contemporary lens. Their unique fusion of Middle Eastern instruments, such as the electric saz and tenbur, with cutting-edge synthesizers, accompanied by catchy modern beats has captivated European audiences since their breakthrough 2023 single, “Derde Çare.”
One standout single, “Kevokim,” exemplifies the balance of hooky songs with expressive vocals, psychedelic Anatolian synth solos and the unfamiliar. “Kevokim captures our musical journey. It was important to us to find an exciting musical context for the profound message of the traditional lyrics about the fate of a black dove,” the band says.
The second single, “Ayri Düşüren,” is equally compelling, mixing the heartfelt melancholy of Alevi poet Asik Gevheri’s words with an uplifting, soul-stirring chorus. The ingenious interplay of electric saz and guitars creates a sound that sounds fresh and stylishly hip . Another notable track, “Deli Gönül,” mesmerizes with its pulsating 6/8 rhythm, carried by Aylin’s evocative voice.
At the heart of this outfit is Aylin Yildirim, a native of Augsburg (Grmany) who found her passion for music and art at a young age. Her devotion to Alevi folk songs, sung with deep emotion in both Turkish and Kurdish, brings a raw authenticity to her performances.
Equally integral to Aylin’s Soulgarden is Eren Yildirim, a musician and educator who has been immersed in Alevi folk music since childhood. His early connection to traditional instruments like the saz and tenbur has shaped his musical identity. Alongside his sister and cousins, he co-founded the band Mesk, achieving recognition within the Alevi community in Germany.
Manwhile, Girisha Fernando, a versatile musician, composer, and producer, plays bass and guitar. Fernando’s extensive career includes recording numerous albums, touring across Europe, and composing for theater productions. His role as the artistic director of the Water & Sound Festival in Augsburg, one of Germany’s premier global music events, speaks to his deep commitment to world music and artistic curation.
Rounding out this quartet is Paul Etschberger, from Augsburg. He plays keyboards in various pop bands, writes and performs for the Augsburg State Theatre, and gives instrumental lessons. In Aylin’s Soulgarden, he is involved both in songwriting in the studio and in live performances.
Buy Bu Bir Demdir.
Author: Sonia Keller
