Mediterranean marauders, Saharan spies, Bengal buccaneers, assemble! Join the Silk Road Secret Agents as we meander through the legendary trade routes connecting Asia and Africa with Europe via The Middle East, sewing a rich tapestry of musical heritage as we go. We will rely on sound waves, realized from thousands of years of cultural exchange, to disrupt conventional perspectives and diffuse critical intel behind often elusive recordings. Flaring film scores, squelching psych odysseys, infernal disco fevers and more will be at your disposal so meet us at the epicenter of the Old World. Requirements include enthusiasm for iconoclasm and reliable sonic transportation.

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Throughout the Soviet Union, a unique pop genre was cultivated by integrating the folk roots and melodies of bloc countries with European arrangements and orchestras, meant to compete with the musical development of Western civilization(s). This music was called “estrada” (roughly translated as “boulevard music”) and it often manifested in jazz-centric compositions evoking blissful city life to the tune of government censorship. To welcome the new year, we present 25 years of estradayin hits recorded in Soviet Armenia from 1968-1992, carefully curated to emphasize holiday cheer with duet vocals, swing rhythms, warm synthesizers and more. Pair these songs with roasted chestnuts, dry wine, and enjoy them best with friends or family.