Faith i Branko: Irena Kolo [World Music Records | Riverboat Records]

Faith i Branko release their video single - ’Irena’ - to celebrate the release of their latest album - ’Duhovi’. Irena Kolo was inspired by the Serbian actress Irena Micijevic, and was written in Belgrade in 2018. Filmed by Ivan Radosavljevic. Thanks to the talents and beauty of the village of Gornja Grabovica. 15 years ago, UK born musician Faith met and married the Serbian Romani violinist Branko Ristic, resulting in the birth of an utterly unique and artistic musical union. Bringing their own distinctive musical, cultural and personal stories into their music, this union has so far resulted in international tours, albums and an award-winning documentary. Since we last heard from Faith and Branko, an obstacle strewn move from Branko’s tiny village in rural Serbia to London have tested the duo’s personal and professional relationship to new levels. Yet, despite the inevitable strain of moving from one of the most remote corners of Europe to one of its most populous fulcrums, Faith and Branko’s musical journey has survived and thrived - with the thrilling results now available to hear on their new album, the title of which, ‘Duhovi’, means ‘ghosts’, ‘spirits’, or ‘souls’, and refers to the souls of four now deceased musicians and friends who recorded on this album. This album is a celebration of that deep bond of music and creativity, that heals, connects them to something beyond them – and keeps the memory alive of those they loved. Some pieces were recorded remotely due to the pandemic, and some together in London and Emir Kusturica’s studio in Serbia. Two worlds and methods of creating music combine and sometimes collide within these compositions, each of which is a musical conversation between Faith and Branko. From a foundation of Serbian-Roma music, Faith i Branko have created a style that draws from both of their musical heritages and expresses their unique personal connection and willingness to experiment with other genres’ With thanks to all friends and family in Serbia - and in particular Valjevo and the village of Gornja Grabovica who helped with the making of this video. Thanks to Michael Estorick for making it possible for this to happen.