The Sounds of the Carpathians: Authentic Hutsul Music, Sharovarshchyna, and Pop Music

In the new episode of UNZIP, Albert Tsukrenko talks with music producer and journalist Alik Mokh about the music of the Carpathians. How has it evolved from Soviet pop to modern ethno-pop? Where does tradition end and kitsch begin? We also discuss the “Hutsul vibe” in popular culture and the songs performed by Ukraine’s Eurovision contestants. Here is the audio playlist for this episode:

1. VIA “Smerichka,” “I Am Your Wing.” Recorded in 1975
2. Variety ensemble “Gulmash,” “Carpathians.” Recorded in 1987
3. State Hutsul Song and Dance Ensemble, “Oh, in the Mountains of the Carpathians.” Recorded in 1957
4. Vocal-Instrumental Ensemble “Karpaty,” “Hey, Above the Meadow” (live). Recorded in 1973
5. Vocal-Instrumental Ensemble “Svitiaz,” “Blue Mountains.” Recorded in 1981
6. Kvitka Tsisyk, “In the Carpathian Mountains.” Recorded in 1989
7. “Ti khto vidayut,” “Gasity vugle.” Recorded in 2011
8. “Hutsuly,” “Dzhinsy.” Recorded in 1989
9. Nazariy Yaremchuk, “Koly zasnuly syni hory.” Recorded in 1980

Listen to the podcast recording here

UNZIP is a podcast that delves into the archives of Ukrainian music. You’ll hear host Albert Tsukrenko and his guests on the UnZip podcast search for answers to questions about our musical identity. And best of all, they’ll surprise you with songs unearthed from the archives of Ukrainian Radio.