Zuzana Homolová Revives Forgotten Slovak Folk Ballads

Trojka Zuzany Homolovej – Keď vojačik narukoval (Slnko Records, 2019)

Renowned Slovak folk singer-songwriter Zuzana Homolová is known for her captivating ballads. On her album Keď vojačik narukoval (When the soldier was drafted) she selected a collection of war stories from various time periods, including what is known as the first “Great” war. The meaningful songs portray the diverse perspectives of young boys, girls, and their parents. Some are heartbreaking although Zuzana Homolová also injects irony and romance.

Zuzana Homolová uses a wide range of creative vocal expressions and overdub techniques. The musical arrangements combine Slovak traditional music with mesmerizing chamber folk and innovative modern music elements. Two master instrumentalists accompany Zuzana on the Trojka Zuzany Homolovej (Zuzana Homolová Trio), Samo Smetana and Miloš Železňák.

The lineup on Keď vojačik narukoval includes Zuzana Homolová on vocals and guitar; Samo Smetana on vocals, violin and viola; and Miloš Železňák on acoustic and electric guitars, guitalele, fretless guitar, ud, buzuki, baglama, mandolin, cello, bendir, riq, darbuka, water drum, jaw harp, percussion and vocals.

Guests: Iva Bittová on vocals; Ján Oriško on percussion and snare drum; and Lukáš Lacko on pipe, whistle.

The physical version of the album includes a charming illustrated booklet with original lyrics and translations to English.

Buy the digital edition at amazon or the CD from Sinko Records

More about Zuzana Homolová

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.
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