Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Derya Yildirim & Grup Simsek are already renowned internationally for their signature melange of Anatolian funk, soul and psychedelic pop. With "outernational" intentions, their latest album for Big Crown is a bulbous strut down the street, marching confidently through enmity-melting backbeats and fulgurant baglama solos played by leader Yildirim - all designed to allay the worst of the world's oppressions and injustices. Connecting threads of collective resistance, longing, protest song, and hope, the album follows a progressive streak loudly taken up by the band since 2014, but the mood is endearing and softly appeasing, rather reactive to the struggle.

Review: This double LP, compiles all tracks from the critically acclaimed Dost 1 & 2 and Dost 2" albums, originally released in 2021 and 2022. The band's nuanced and groovy Anatolian psych-folk sound shines through in these collections, with Yildirim's sublime vocals and baglama (Turkish lute) leading the charge. "Dost" signifies a friend, comrade, and more—a connection that infuses life with meaning. This sentiment is palpable throughout the albums, which bring together sounds, people, and emotions in a harmonious blend. With Dost 2 Derya Yildirim & Grup Simsek have expanded their songwriting horizons and honed their unique arrangements. The band's compositions, complemented by guitarist and flautist Antonin Voyant's melodic contributions, reach deep, meaningful places without veering into nostalgia. Lyrics penned by Yildirim in collaboration with Berlin-based writer Duygu Agal add further depth to the album.
Dost 1 & 2 is a vibrant, lively interpretation of connection and camaraderie, making it a pinnacle example of Anatolian psych-folk music's potential.