S q u e e z y t u n e s

Ukraine in the 1960s

Here's some more Ukrainian music, this time from the 60s (I guess). Dig that groovy combo organ.

Verka Serdjuchka

I was reminded of this by the recent posting of Verka's entry to the Eurovision Song Contest by Mister Anchovy. Here he is with the song "Всё будет хорошо" (vsyo budet xarasho) which means "everything will be fine".

The Cymbalon in a Gypsy Orchestra

I've never seen one of these for sale before. It's a Cymbalon from Hungary made in about 1875 and fully working. It sold for a shamefully low price of $1,200 (£611).

For a great example of one in action then it's over to the ever wonderful Taraf de Haidouks who are here joined by the Kocani Orchestar and Tarik Tuxsiszoglu on derbouka. If only symphony orchestras sounded like this ! This track is so wonderful I keep watching over and over again. Unfortunately it cuts out early, so I must go and buy the DVD this came from.

Wild Mountain Thyme

British Summer Time officially started yesterday, so here to celebrate is Dick Gaughan, Emmylou Harris, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Rufus Wainwright, Aly Bain, Jay Ungar and Jerry Douglas.

Christy Moore - Ride On

Finishing a wonderful trio of Christy Moore songs, this is the beautiful 'Ride On'.