"Kozatski Zabavy" Ensemble. Kozac'ki zabavy (Cossack Larks)

As many as five out of the seven participants of this collective are honored artists of Ukraine. Thus, it is clear at once – these men know their singing business well. And it is easy to make sure of that having heard any of the tracks. At the same time, it then becomes clear that the "Kozatski Zabavy" ensemble pays considerable attention to playful displays of the Ukrainian song tradition. Therefore, on the one hand, the performance manner is characterized by somewhat sarcastic pathetics. But then all this smoothly flows into pure lyrics and heroics – and then there is no place for jokes, and you should forget about pathetics. Everything is serious, professional, beautiful and somewhat sad. However, not too sad – as a hero deprived of cheerfulness does not live long and is not able to compose and sing songs. So, it is just a well-balanced album. This also refers to the authors – as there are both author's and folk songs. Moreover, this balance characterizes the mood – thus, the disc will not let anybody be too deep in sadness, but will also not forget to motivate the audience for certain patriotic themes for meditation.

Anton Jozhik Lejba (Hedgehog)