ETNO GROUP "TRAG" RELEASES NEW MUSIC VIDEO

The Balkan traditional music ensemble, Etno Group "Trag," has released a new music video for the song "Čio e ono devojče." The song, a traditional melody from Eastern Serbia, has been given a fresh arrangement by "Trag," inspired by their collaboration with the Department of Ethnomusicology at the Academy of Arts in Banja Luka.

PHOTO: Vladimir Tadić

The lead vocals in the new rendition are performed by Vesna Drašković, with Tanja Vrančić and Valentina Milekić Kovačić providing harmonic backing. The instrumental ensemble features Mirko Lučić on guitar, bass, and tambura; Mladen Janković on keyboards; Zoran Vujić on percussion; and Jelena Škrbić on violin.

The song's audio was mixed and mastered by Ninoslav Dobrijević – Tiki, while the video was directed and filmed by Vladimir Tadić.

Since its founding in 2003, Etno Group "Trag" has focused on preserving the rich heritage of Balkan traditional music. Their unique sound blends authentic folk instruments such as flutes, bagpipes, kaval, tarabukas, and drums with classical instruments like guitar and violin, as well as modern ones, including stage piano and bass guitar.

The group's repertoire spans songs from Republika Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, as well as Roma music. Additionally, their frequent performances in Russia have inspired the inclusion of several Russian folk songs in their collection.

"Trag" regularly performs at major cultural events across Bosnia and Herzegovina and internationally. Their work is driven by a shared passion for folk traditions, aiming to rescue this rich musical legacy from obscurity and adapt it for contemporary audiences.

By integrating traditional rhythms and melodies into their unique arrangements, the group breathes new life into songs that have been passed down through generations. These melodies, enriched by countless individuals over centuries, remain vibrant and timeless.

Following the traces of folk heritage, Etno Group "Trag" adds its personal touch and the spirit of modern times to these songs, preserving their essence while ensuring their relevance for future generations.