SONGS OF DEFIANCE: Music of Chechnya and the North Caucasus
VARIOUS ARTISTS TSCD934

Recordings and compilation by Michael Church

In this first ever survey of the music of this war torn region, Michael Church lifts the veil on a vibrant musical tradition. The small but troubled Republic of Chechnya is a member of the Russian Federation, located in the North Caucasus Mountains between the Black and Caspian Seas. With a population of a little more that one million, its fierce fight for independence has kept it in the news and kept visitors out. A beautiful but harsh mountainous landscape has made for a traditionally hard and resilient people whose culture has rarely reached the outside world.

Michael Church has recorded and compiled the stunning music on this disc partly in Chechnya itself and was held by the Russian police for his efforts. Some of the tracks are love songs and circle dances, others are living history, accompanied by balalaika, violin, drum and accordion, these songs celebrate heroes and denounce genocidal crime.

• "Just when you think you have a grasp on indigenous European music, along comes something that blows away all your preconceptions. This music seems to come from some mysterious other place, with its rough-hewn energy and its passionate social engagement. Much of the material – text as well as music – is profoundly moving and very beautiful. Michael Church does us a great service by bringing it to our attention" Gavin Bryars

• "Sounds that will enlighten even the most jaded ear" Michael Nyman

• Independent Music Magazine

• "As far as I am aware this is the only current CD available of music from Chechnya and the surrounding area – beautiful music – respect to Michael Church and to Topic Records" Charlie Gillett

• "To have a selection [of rare Chechnyan music] easily available is great news - it's great that this hidden music is emerging" fRoots

• "Hats off to Topic for getting off the beaten track once again. ...there are some wild instrumental tunes and wooden clappers - real mountain music. A rare glimpse into a fascinating and overlooked region"
Songlines

• "The fierce anger is unforgettable. Recommended." New Zealand Listener

• "A must have for the contemporary and traditional world music scholar and record collector". UP’s Favourite Releases

<<Please click here for a full size back cover picture and track listing.