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Sample Track 1:
"Gentle Boy, Graceful Girl" from Old Street
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Old Street
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Layer 2
CD Review

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Philadelphia City Paper, CD Review >>

Throughout Old Street, zurna and duduk wail their reedy insistence: Armenia's tough times in the 20th century will never blot out five millennia of culture. The Cascade Folk Trio, though far from the homeland, stand their ground with originals sung in the ancient tongue and set to Armenian melodies. They are, however, creatures of the 21st century, and do find studio tampering irresistible. CFT's fascination with programming is not equal to the refinement of technique of the traditional players they use or their own vocals. Too often drum programs plod foursquare, all but eradicating the complex rhythms of the hand drums. Delicate arpeggios of the kanun fade behind frippery. By contrast, the best track is unaccompanied vocals, a distinctly Armenian lead underscored by perfect harmonies, angelically soft and arranged in a modern way that thoroughly complements the old song.--Mary Armstrong 01/29/04 >> go there
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