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Review of recent release 'With Apfelstrudel and Turkish Coffee'

Alex Knapp: Research Associate, Music Department, University of London SOAS

This highly colourful EP, comprising eight contrasting tracks, and lasting a little under half-an-hour, has been brought to us by the acclaimed Magic Violin Trio: violin, cello and guitar, who also double as vocalists on this recording. The entire range of moods – from the most poignant meditations to the most joyful and energetic outpourings – are presented with great expression and sensitivity. Some tracks are more western in terms of major and minor tonalities, whereas others utilize the melodic structures of traditional Hungarian, Romanian, Roma and Turkish modalities (e.g. Hijaz and “Ukrainian Dorian”). Typical melodic features are the imaginative improvisation, vivid ornamentation, and compelling virtuosity.

Rhythmical patterns are sometimes simple, elsewhere complex and challenging to the western ear - always vital and vibrant. The clarity of the recording enables the listener to enjoy the richness and purity of sound created by this accomplished ensemble.

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