Çiğdem can be translated to ‘sunflower’, a plant known for its light and positive energy; the latest release ‘Sabah Gunesi’ (meaning Morning Sun) radiates this same energy and rhythm.
The newest track from the accomplished artist may be pretty undefinable; it opens with an 8-s keyboard riff that primes the audience for the surprise of the masterful electro-baglama solo.
Followed by an exceptional trumpet solo by the incredibly talented Ugur Kucuk and Hasan Gozetlik, the opening to the song incorporates so many different and wonderful instruments and genres to create something entirely new.
Whether in its R&B keyboards, rock guitar riffs, trumpet solos, or Çiğdem’s beautiful vocals tying the track together, Sabah Gunesi marries its love of tradition with modern production to weave a web of multicultural music.
“she is both a lioness and nightingale”
– Simon Broughton, Evening Standard
About the Artist
‘Çiğdem Aslan has previously collaborated with the band She’koyokh and recorded ‘Soho‘ as part of London’s Calling for the 2012 Olympics. The artist now explores a unique, genre-fluid style incorporating rock, funk, and jazz elements while retaining her proud roots in Anatolian folk.
“At this very stage of my life, I decided to try making different genres in my music. That’s why my song comprises both familiar and unfamiliar elements to my style… The result has been promising.”
‘Çiğdem Aslan
The new track ‘Sabah Gunesi’ has the backing of many other accomplished musicians such as Berdin Pamukcu on the electric guitar and Giulio Granchelli on the bass guitar, with Omer Avci mixing in Istanbul and Alex Wharton mastering in the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
Sabah Gunesi was mixed by Baris Guney (best known for his virtuoso bağlama work) and released under the Red Music Production Label. This international collaboration encapsulates the heart of the Sabah Gunesi, a track rooted in classic Rebetiko, Balkan, and Anatolian Folk with a modern production twist.
If Çiğdem’s appearances at The Royal Albert Hall and Cadogan Hall hadn’t already convinced you that she’s the most exciting artist in her space right now, Sabah Gunesi is sure to!
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Words by Chloe Neal