Search - Saban Bajramovic :: Gypsy King of Serbia

"Balkan Gypsy Passion" Sung by Saban Bajramovic

Erika Borsos | Gulf Coast of FL, USA | 05/12/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Saban Bajramovic ... one of the best kept musical secrets of Serbia. Finally, his singing and music have achieved world recognition. I first heard him sing "Pena" on "Gypsy Caravan" (Putumayo World Music CD). I was enchanted and wanted a CD of his ever since. His voice is very distinctive ... totally suited to the types of songs he creates. I am very pleased ARC Music of the UK produced this CD, they *never* disappoint ... the label researches traditional artists from around the globe, sharing the best that each country has to offer.Balkan gypsy music never sounded better than when played by "Black Mambo" (Bajramovic's band). The staccato rhythms and music expressed on the accordion, clarinet, brass instruments and percussion remind me of growing up in Chicago. I spent many summers learning kolos at my girlfriend's church picnics, where a live Serbian band played similar music. The music of the Balkans always brings people together ... to dance and share food and drink ... during holidays, weddings, christenings, cultural events, or whatever occasion arises. Music expresses nostalgia for the past and recalls one's personal history ...My favorite tracks are #3 "Maruska" (a girl's name), which has me joyfully singing along whenever I hear it. #4 "Kamerav, Kamerav" stands out for its strong Turkish influence, a powerful clarinet solo and outstanding percussion and rhythm. #7 "Erdelezi Avela" has a terrific refrain "Hey Romale, Hey Chavelje" (Hey gypsies, hey children) which is highly infectious ... it is in honor of St. George's day, a saint's day celebrated throughout the Balkans. #9 "Nani, nani" has great accordion accompaniment and virtuosity with creative improvisations. Lastly, #17, "Ja lavala, lavala" sounds wonderful due to its slow and fast alternative rhythms which appeals to the dancer in me. I have fond recollections of dancing kolos for hours and hours and wishing the evening would never end. Anyone who loves Balkan music would want this in their collection. Erika Borsos (erikab93)"

But Gypsy Legend is Better Still

Tish | CA United States | 09/20/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For Eric Slabiak, the sizzling lead violinist, vocalist, and dancer of Les Yeux Noirs, I give this CD the whole five stars. He loves it. It is indeed beautifully mastered. The music is classically crisp. Saban's voice is clear and voluminous as a starlit sky over the desert. But for me, there's a half star missing in the empty space I hear between the voice and music. If you want to feel the voice and music as one, to be romanced, and to fall in love with the spirit of Saban, go get his Gypsy Legend CD. Don't bother sampling it, just get it. And then, if you want to hear Saban's influence in the present generation of Gypsies, check out Les Yeux Noirs' Balamouk and Live CDs."

One of the best Balkan/Roma artists

Erik | Portland, OR | 08/30/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a top album along with his other album and with Lolov and Yunakov and Taraf de Haidouks, as good Balkan/Roma music."