MOĞOLLAR

For me this record is among the best releases of the Turkish underground scene. ''Anadolu pop'' classic but actually a solid blend of ethnic folk and psych music. There is a definite psychedelic flavour in particular tracks (for example "to a clear mind'' , ''sunset in golden horn'' , ''kaleidoscopic dream'') and a similarity can be traced to the works of John Berberian and Orient Express. Many highlights here but especially Ilgaz is an eternal gem that should be heard by everyone. "Legend of Mount Ararat" is another superb track of ethnic folk music. Their following lps are also good but for me this is their best work.

No time to write a descent review now, but I must say there are in fact two versions of the album. This originally French pressing was the only album of the band with keyboard player Murat Ses. Murat Ses's vision had interests to include influences from the progressive rock scene. Also the bass player had a distinctive powerful style. Basically these are original inspirations based upon Turkish folk music mixed with an acoustic rock edge. The other version, Mogollar vol. 1 is the same album's single versions which is much more electric, has many bonus tracks and is more powerful in sound. Both versions have their charm, but I still prefer vol.1. which sounds a bit more "psychedelic" (in the sense how it is also used to make distinctions towards normal rock). I am not sure if I can say it is interesting for progressive music lovers, perhaps not. But it is a very good and original album. So for this list between 2 and 3 stars. It is Mogollar's best album.