That the Bosnian singer Amira Medunjanin now has a career in music is thanks to her husband Bekim Medunjanin. He told her that her singing voice was such a beautiful gift that she should not keep it to herself but should share it with others. Fortunately, she complied with his request. Both know better than anyone how music is of vital importance. During the civil war in Yugoslavia in the 1990s,
… people yearned to escape from poverty by enjoying art and music. Bekim was an inspiring organizer of underground music evenings, faithfully attended by Amira. Only years later did they get to know each other. Amira sings melancholy-drenched sevdah songs in a modern way. Her fourth studio album Silk & Stone, recorded live, is dedicated to feminine sevda songs, which, according to tradition, were not allowed to be sung in public. The silence of the woman is tangible in the intimate music, in which Amira creates space for peace and quiet with her beautiful warm and clear singing voice. In those pauses, beautiful instrumental solos of qanun (zither), oud (lute) or guitar sound, expertly supplemented with playing by the pianist and double bass player Nenad Vasilic. Very moving. (SvdP)more
