Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol presents "Çalıcı Mehterler (The Musician Mehters)," a captivating fusion of jazz and traditional Turkish folk music, set to release on March 14, 2024, under the DUNYA label. This 36-minute album comprises 18 tracks, each a testament to Sanlıkol's mastery in blending contemporary jazz with the rich heritage of Turkish musical traditions.
The album opens with "Neva Taksim," setting the stage for a journey through diverse compositions like "Çeng-I Harbi," "Pişrev-I Benefşezar," and "Hünkar Pişrevi." Sanlıkol's expertise shines through in tracks such as "Ottomanist" and "Rast Fantezi," where he seamlessly intertwines modern jazz elements with traditional Turkish melodies. The inclusion of pieces like "Ey Gaziler" and "Pehlivan Havası" showcases his ability to honor and reinterpret classic Turkish folk tunes.
With a career marked by innovative albums like "Turkish Hipster," "A Gentleman Of Istanbul," and "An Elegant Ritual," Sanlıkol continues to push boundaries and redefine musical genres. "Çalıcı Mehterler" is not just an album; it's an exploration of cultural fusion, offering listeners a unique and enriching musical experience.