„Mother“ is an expression of German-Greek bassist Athina Kontou’s exploration of the musical culture of her Greek homeland. She is gaining recognition for her unique musical blend, combining jazz with Greek traditions. Her debut album, „Tzivaeri,“ explores themes of emigration and personal identity through a fusion of musical influences.
The title track, „Tzivaeri mou,“ a well-known folk song from the Dodecanese, tells a touching story of a mother’s sorrow after sending her child away in search of a better life. „Tzivaeri mou“ translates to „my precious“ in the local Greek dialect, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Kontou’s goal is to harmonize her experiences as an improvisational jazz musician with her Greek heritage. This blending of genres is less common than other jazz-world music fusions, but Kontou embraces the challenge. She notes that improvisation is a key element in traditional Greek music, from Rebetiko to folk songs and dances.
Creating „Tzivaeri“ was not just an artistic journey but also a deep exploration of identity for Kontou. This process of self-discovery gave her a unique perspective on her project, „Mother,“ which remains an ongoing exploration.
Kontou’s quartet, „Mother,“ features Luise Volkmann on saxophone, Lucas Leidinger on piano, and Dominik Mahnig on drums. Together, they create a compelling sonic experience where Kontou’s bass anchors the music, Volkmann’s saxophone soars, and the piano and drums provide the foundation.
The album draws from various sources, including traditional Greek songs, contemporary compositions, and pieces with Armenian or Turkish roots. This eclectic mix reflects the universal nature of music and transcends cultural boundaries.
In essence, Athina Kontou’s „Tzivaeri“ is an invitation to appreciate the beauty of music without reservations, showcasing her ability to create a captivating musical journey that defies traditional categorizations.