Зәһрә Сәхәбиева - Отчего

Review by Adam Lea

The album Отчего by Зәһрә Сәхәбиева is a beautiful collection of Tatar folk songs that showcase the artist's incredible vocal range and emotive delivery. From the opening track "Отчего" (Why), which is a hauntingly beautiful ballad about lost love and longing, to the upbeat and danceable "Иңгәләк" (Wedding), the album is a journey through the rich musical traditions of Tatarstan.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Кызыл элек" (Red Mill), a song about a young woman who falls in love with a miller's son. Sәхәбиева's voice is particularly powerful here, conveying both the joy and pain of the protagonist's love story.

Another highlight of the album is "Алтын тәрәҗә" (Golden Necklace), a melancholy ballad about a woman who is betrayed by her lover. Sәхәбиева's voice is full of emotion here, and the arrangement of the song is particularly beautiful, with the use of traditional Tatar instruments like the dombra and the kubyz.

Summary by Adam Lea

Отчего is a stunning album that showcases the power and beauty of Tatar folk music. Sәхәбиева's voice is truly remarkable, and the arrangements of the songs are both traditional and innovative, making for a truly unique listening experience. Highly recommended for fans of world music, folk music, and anyone looking to discover new and exciting musical traditions.