World Music Wednesday is a weekly segment on The North 103.3 FM. Every Wednesday at 4pm on Northland Afternoon, we will feature a brand-new release or a significantly important past work from our vast library of music from around the world.
Support for World Music Wednesday comes from Simply Ballroom in Duluth's Craft District.
Faith i Branko are married duo of UK born musician Faith and Serbian Romani violinist Branko Ristic. In their fifteen years together, they have released two albums, ventured on international tours, and are the subjects of an award-winning documentary released in 2020. Originally based in Branko's native home village in Serbia, they have since moved to London. Faith both sings and plays accordion and other instruments. Violinist Branko says of his difficult beginnings in the conflicted region in and around Serbia, "I taught myself to play in very difficult circumstances, sometimes without two strings or a teacher. Only when I play am I truly happy. Music is my soul, my greatest love and how I experience God and the universe."
Their second album was released earlier this year. The title, Duhovi, means "ghosts," "spirits," or "souls" and refers to the souls of four now deceased musicians and friends who recorded with them on this album. Some pieces were recorded remotely due to the pandemic and some together in London and Serbia. The album is described as a musical conversation drawing "from both of their musical heritages and expresses their… personal connection and willingness to experiment with other genres." The first single from Duhovi is called "Techno." Even before listening, the title may suggest to you that it blends modern musical ideas alongside their traditional music roots.
Faith i Branko's story was made into an international award-winning documentary Faith and Branko in 2020. The film opened the Aljazeera Film Festival in Sarajevo.
