Oratnitza – Folktron (Fusion Embassy, 2015)
Oratnitza delivers a contemporary acoustic music vision of Bulgarian traditional music. On Folktron the band performs original pieces that revolve around captivating vocals, kaval (a long, end-blown Bulgarian flute) melodies, roaring didgeridoo and a variety of trance drums beats and percussion.
Although some of the rhythms may emulate modern percussion instruments or even electronic beats, there are no electronics, except for one piece which is an electronic dance music dub remix.
The use of the didgeridoo adds an exotic tribal elements that permeates throughout most of the pieces. Most of the vocals use the traditional Bulgarian style that has fascinated world music audiences for years. They also add a little rapping on one piece which is annoying.
The lineup on Folktron includes Hristiyan Georgiev on kaval, vocals, melodica and tambura; Georgi “Horhe” Marinov on didgeridoo; Petar “Buny” Yordanov on cajon, tupan and darbuka; and Ivan “Popa” Gospodinov on vocals. Guests include Peyo Peev on gadulka; Petar Milanov on tambura; Petar Yanev on kaba bagpipe, and Magdalena Petrovich on cello.
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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.
