Arabo Ispiryan - Taron Ashkharh

Review by Scott Ploof

Arabo Ispiryan's latest album, Taron Ashkharh, is a beautiful collection of Armenian folk songs that showcases the singer's powerful vocals and deep connection to his cultural roots. From the opening track, "Yeraz Im Yerkir Hayreni," to the closing ballad, "Siro Yerg," Ispiryan's voice is a force to be reckoned with, soaring effortlessly over the traditional instrumentation of duduk, saz, and tar.

The album is a masterful blend of old and new, with Ispiryan breathing new life into classic folk songs like "Hov Arek" and "Ganchum Em Ari," while also introducing his own original compositions, such as the hauntingly beautiful "Vay Vay." The lyrics, which often deal with themes of love, loss, and the beauty of Armenia's natural landscape, are delivered with a raw and emotional intensity that is truly captivating.

Summary by Scott Ploof

Taron Ashkharh is a must-have album for anyone who appreciates the rich and diverse musical traditions of Armenia. Ispiryan's passion for his culture and his artistry are on full display here, making this one of the most impressive releases in recent memory. Highly recommended!