Uzvodno od tuge - Leb i Sol
"Uzvodno od tuge" is a track by the Macedonian band Leb i Sol, which means "bread and salt" in English. The song is part of their self-titled debut album, released in 1977. The track features a unique blend of jazz, rock, and Balkan folk influences, which are characteristic of Leb i Sol's signature sound. The composition is characterized by intricate guitar riffs, melodic bass lines, and dynamic drumming, creating a rich and textured musical landscape. Thematically, "Uzvodno od tuge" translates to "Upstream from sadness" in English, and the lyrics explore themes of hope, resilience, and overcoming adversity. The song's poetic lyrics are delivered in Macedonian, adding an authentic and emotive quality to the music. One notable aspect of the track is the exceptional musicianship displayed by the band members, including the virtuosic guitar playing of Vlatko Stefanovski and the soulful vocals of Amila Sulejmanovic. The fusion of different musical styles and cultural influences in "Uzvodno od tuge" showcases Leb i Sol's innovative approach to music-making and their ability to create a truly unique and captivating listening experience.
Leb i Sol
Leb i Sol was a highly influential rock band from Macedonia, known for blending traditional Balkan folk music with various contemporary styles such as jazz, rock, and world music. The band was formed in 1976 in Skopje, Macedonia, by Vlatko Stefanovski (guitar), Bodan Arsovski (bass), Garabet Tavitjan (keyboard), and Dragoljub Đuričić (drums). Leb i Sol quickly gained popularity in Yugoslavia and beyond, releasing their self-titled debut album in 1978. The band's unique sound, characterized by intricate guitar work, complex rhythms, and haunting melodies, captivated audiences and critics alike. They went on to release numerous albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including "Sledovanje" (1981), "Kao Kakao" (1987), and "Putujemo" (1998). One of the band's most significant achievements was their collaboration with legendary jazz musician and composer, Jan Akkerman, on the album "Silent Wings" in 1985. This collaboration further solidified Leb i Sol's reputation as one of the most innovative and groundbreaking bands in the region. Leb i Sol's impact on music cannot be overstated. They were pioneers in blending traditional Balkan music with modern Western styles, paving the way for a new generation of musicians to explore their own cultural roots while pushing the boundaries of genre and style. The band's virtuosic musicianship, emotive compositions, and cross-cultural collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing countless artists in the Balkans and beyond. Despite various lineup changes over the years, Leb i Sol continued to perform and record music until the early 2000s when they officially disbanded. Their legacy lives on through their timeless recordings and the enduring impact they have had on the music scene in the Balkans and beyond. Leb i Sol remains a beloved and revered band, celebrated for their innovative spirit, musical prowess, and cultural significance.