Istanbul Sokakları: A Reflection of Traditional Influences
Istanbul Sokakları stands out as one of BaBa ZuLa's most authentic albums, emphasizing traditional influences over their earlier experimental collaborations with Mad Professor from the 1990s. While there are hints of electronic experimentation, such as the glitchy electro-disco-darbuka in “Pisa Pisa Halayı,” the band primarily maintains a straightforward approach.
Opening Track and Urban Soundscapes
The opening track, “İstanbul Express Divan Taksim,” resembles a classic Turkish folk ensemble with its rich saz and dumbek rhythms, but field recordings of a Turkish train conductor subtly remind listeners of Istanbul's vibrant street life. These snippets of conversation and gull cries anchor the music in real-world Istanbul, steering away from pure folk nostalgia.
Traditionalism and Modern Influences
As multi-instrumentalist Levent Akman explains, many Turkish musicians cling to traditionalism, preferring acoustic sounds and resisting electric instruments like Murat Ertel’s. BaBa ZuLa aims to challenge these boundaries. While traditional acoustic music may evoke nostalgia, it doesn't fully...