Hilal Kaya – Sümbül (CPL-Music, 2026)
Turkish-Danish vocalist, songwriter, and composer Hilal Kaya will release her debut album, Sümbül, on August 28, 2026. The dazzling and highly engaging album is deeply rooted in Turkish folk music. At the same time, it incorporates rock, jazz, and psychedelia. The traditional Anatolian material surfaces through microtonal melodies, acoustic instruments, improvisation and forceful vocal performances.
Singles “Perişan,” “Sultan” and “Harabe” introduced Kaya as a rising artist within Europe’s contemporary Anatolian psychedelic scene. Sümbül expands that direction with original compositions and new arrangements of Turkish folk songs.
Guitarist and producer Søren Bigum plays electric guitar, acoustic guitar, mandolin, steel guitar and keyboards throughout the album. Oud and baglama player Orhan Özgür Turan adds a pronounced Anatolian influence, while longtime collaborators Henrik Poulsen and Søren Poulsen provide the rhythmic foundation. Henrik Poulsen performs on electric bass and Moog bass, and Søren Poulsen contributes drums and percussion.
Kaya said the album explores longing, belonging and personal connections to cultural roots. “For me, this album is about longing, belonging, and the connection to one’s roots,” she said. “While allowing the music to remain free, we also tried to carry the magic and memory of Anatolia within it.”
In addition to the original material, Sümbül includes three traditional Turkish folk songs. “Mavi Yıldız” originates from the Yozgat region, while “Alma Attım Yuvarlandı,” from Erzurum, recounts the loss of a child through a lament that also recalls a lullaby.
The album also features “Başındaki Yazma / Avşar Elleri,” an arrangement that combines two separate songs. “Avşar Elleri” includes lyrics by folk poet Dadaloğlu and is closely associated with Muharrem Ertaş’s bozlak interpretation. Kaya and her collaborators combine the material with Afro-influenced rhythms and electric guitars.
“Sultan” received a Song of the Year nomination at the 2025 Danish Music Awards Roots. Kaya also earned a nomination for New Roots Artist of the Year.
In recent years, she has appeared at SPOT Festival, Vinterjazz, Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Resonator Festival and Istanbul’s Mix Festival. Her other projects include collaborations with Kalaha and the Aarhus Jazz Orchestra. She has also received nominations connected to the DMA Roots, DMA Jazz and Carl Prisen awards.
Author: Tyler Bennet
