Adam Semijalac – Ode dite (self-release, 2023)
Adam Semijalac, a seasoned Croatian musician, unveils his latest album, Ode Dite, which illustrates his desire to experiment with traditional instruments unfamiliar to his repertoire. Drawing inspiration from the raw essence of dangubica (small Serbian and Croatian stringed instrument with two single or double strings) and bugarija (guitar-sized Bosnian string instrument), two instruments that embody simplicity and authenticity, Semijalac embarks on a creative journey by deviating from conventional playing techniques.
Driven by a profound longing to enrich the traditional soundscapes, Semijalac approaches his chosen instruments, dangubica and bugarija, with a fresh perspective. By employing unconventional tunings and utilizing a slide, he injects a distinct character into their timbre. His intention is to infuse microtones and a bluesy “dirtiness” absent from contemporary folk music, thereby mirroring the nuances of the human voice. Additionally, Semijalac’s inclusion of the banjo sparks curiosity regarding its compatibility with bugarija and dangubica, fostering an amalgamation of diverse musical influences.
Semijalac pairs his instrumental compositions with lyrics that embody simplicity, reminiscent of traditional folk melodies. His choice to incorporate “nursery” rhymes and repetitive motifs not only enhances the album’s authenticity, but also underscores his belief in the adage that simplicity breeds excellence. Moreover, recognizing the significance of female voices in conveying the essence of his lyrics, Semijalac welcomes the contributions of Tajana Josimović and Lana Hosni, accomplished traditional singers. By inviting their vocal prowess, he cultivates a sense of community and inclusivity throughout the recording process.
While “Ode Dite” primarily serves as a love and anti-war album, it delves into multifaceted topics that evoke deep contemplation. Semijalac ventures into the realm of intergenerational trauma inflicted by wars, the anguish of losing loved ones, social pressures, the perseverance of survival amidst poverty, and the preservation of “primitive” customs. This thematic exploration remains consistent with the artist’s previous works, such as “Baba Ljuba Blues” and the experimental album “A Dance For the Black Devil.”
Within the tapestry of “Ode Dite” lies Semijalac’s personal odyssey, as he grapples with the aftermath of a cancer surgery that resulted in the loss of his voice. The diagnosis of damage to the superior laryngeal nerve left him questioning his ability to sing, resonate, and express himself through vocalizations. Despite the profound setback, Semijalac strives to overcome these challenges and find solace in his continued creative pursuits. This album serves as a testament to his resilience, redefining his artistic identity and navigating the uncharted path of artistic expression in the face of adversity.
In a heartfelt tribute, Semijalac dedicates “Ode Dite” to the memory of his grandparents, who valiantly fought against fascism. The album’s profound significance extends beyond the confines of musical artistry, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have made extraordinary sacrifices in the name of freedom. The instrumental arrangements feature dangubica, bugarija, banjo, bass, and a frame drum, meticulously performed, recorded, mixed, and produced by Semijalac.
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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.