Simon Thacker, Justyna Jablonska - Songs of the Roma (2024) [Hi-Res]

with special guests: Masha Natanson (voice/violin), Gyula “Julius” Csík (cimbalom), Gyula Lázár (double bass)

**Songs of the Roma** is a musical journey led by Simon Thacker that explores the rich traditions of Balkan, Romanian, and Russian Romani music, while also incorporating original compositions and modern interpretations. The project began as a touring trio featuring Thacker (classical guitar), Polish cellist Justyna Jablonska, and Roma singer-violinist Masha Natanson. Their music combines transformed traditional songs like *Ederlezi* and *Niška Banja* with spiritual depth, catharsis, and joyful intensity.

The vocal trio pays homage to iconic Romani musicians like Esma Redžepova and Gabi Luncă, while also performing beautiful Russian folk songs. The instrumental incarnation of the project includes Hungarian cimbalom virtuoso Gyula "Julius" Csik and double bassist Gyula Lázár, creating a unique sound inspired by Romani, Indian, and Flamenco music traditions. The album features tracks like the shimmering *Jolta* and vibrant *Phirado*, blending tradition with bold innovation. *Songs of the Roma* is a testament to cross-cultural collaboration, fusing past, present, and future into a powerful, original tribute to the Romani musical legacy.

Tracklist:
1-1 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - Abre Ramce [5:09]
1-2 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - Anii Mei Şi Tinereţea [7:07]
1-3 Simon Thacker;Gyula Csík;Justyna Jablonska - Jolta [8:26]
1-4 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - Niška Banja [6:13]
1-5 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - La Ciolpani [8:08]
1-6 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - Ibrahim [5:05]
1-7 Simon Thacker;Justyna Jablonska;Masha Natanson - Ederlezi [8:33]
1-8 Simon Thacker;Gyula Csík;Justyna Jablonska;Gyula Lázár - Phirado [6:36]