Description
In the 1960s, Lauren Brody, an American student, became fascinated with the traditional music of Bulgaria, then regarded by Bulgarians themselves as hopelessly old-fashioned. Single-mindedly and almost single-handedly, she assembled what is now recognised as one of Balkan folk music's most important archives. That collection forms the basis of this important 4CD release - compiled and annotated by Ms Brody herself, it must be the most authoritative ever issued. The music here has an authenticity, vitality and musicality that is both engaging and exotic - no fan of world music can fail to be entranced. And - almost inevitably - the Bulgarians themselves now realise what incredible gems they very nearly threw away.