The Bulgarian State Radio and Television Female Vocal Choir

At times resembling Enya and at others more akin to Medúlla or a choral group under the baton of Philip Glass, this Slavic folk music project has wetted the panties of flocks of late 20th century composition enthusiasts. The Bulgarian State Radio and Television Female Vocal Choir pant saw its most strenuous release schedule between the mid eighties and early nineties. They’re best known for their series Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, which has been sampled by many an ambient techno goober. Upon first hearing the series, I was surprised to find out the choir members sport traditional Bulgarian garb, since the music (to me) sounds decidedly nontraditional. It stems from the region’s ancient oral customs, which are highlighted by a particularly bouncy, spastic female timbre. Quite a few writers have used the word “haunting” to describe the sound, and well, I’d say that’s right on the money. The following are selections from the abovementioned series.

Kaval Sviri, from Vol. 2
A Señora Novia, from Ritual
Nazdrave Ti, Chorbadjiio, from Ritual
Sedenkarska, from Vol. 3
Pilentze Pee, from Vol. 1
Ovdoviala Lissitchkata, from Vol. 2

[buy stuff here]