Aşk

Description

Their fifth album in as many years, Ask (deeper feeling of love), marks a return to the Anatolian folk-rock sound of the 70s that characterized Altin Gün's first two albums. The record exudes a contagious energy reminiscent of the famous concerts of the Amsterdam-based group, showcasing their sound palette made up of Turkish psychedelic pop groove, sci-fi disco, and dreamy acid folk. With Ask, the Amsterdam-based sextet turns away from the synth-laden electronic sound of their 2021 albums, Âlem and Yol. While the latter paid homage to 80s electronic pop, Ask marks a return to the Anatolian folk-rock sound of the 70s that defined the group's first two albums, On (2018) and Gece (2019). However, this new album stands out as the one that comes closest to the energy of the band's concerts. "It's definitely closer to a live sound – almost like a live album," says bassist Jasper Verhulst. The ten tracks once again offer new interpretations of traditional Turkish folk tunes, revealing how these old songs remain timeless. "These songs have been covered so many times," says Dasdemir. "But not really in psychedelic pop versions," adds Verhulst. The album opens with “Badi Sabah Olmadan,” which also appeared on Âlem in the form of a hazy electronic excursion. But this is a completely different journey. The opening snare roll kicks off like a starting gun, signaling a forward rush into infectious space rock, with Erdinç Ecevit providing a dolorous voice and electric saz, and Thijs Elzinga's slide guitar suggesting an Anatolian cousin of Pink Floyd's psychedelic storm “One of These Days.” The saz and slide guitar are also present on “Su Suziyor,” a reggae-funk groove with Verhulst and drummer Daniel Smienk providing a solid backdrop for Dasdemir's pleading and teasing vocals. On “Dere Geliyor,” Ecevit adds ethereal keyboards, launching into a hypnotic synthesizer solo, with Chris Bruinings' percussion giving an impression of epic prog-folk. How many worlds does Altin Gün visit in this joyful expedition? “Rakiya Su Katamam” is a space rock evoking Gong that would have made a stopover on the Bosphorus. “Canim Oy“ is a psychedelic freak-beat stop from a world where the Kadiköy district in Istanbul would be the Carnaby Street of the East. “Güzelligin On Para Etmez” is a dreamy acid-folk anthem. And the finale, “Doktor Civanim,” is an irresistible sci-fi disco with tube synthesizers that would fit right alongside Baris Manço's “Ben Bilirim.” Fresh yet timeless. Rooted in tradition, yet aspiring to a paradisiacal future. Ask wants to take you on a journey. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away…