NEW RELEASE: Veseli Chasy 3 (03/03/96)

NEW RELEASE: Veseli Chasy 3

by Katherine Marcyniuk

CHICAGO - During the course of over two decades, the Chicago-based Veseli Chasy has become known for its lyrical treatments of Ukrainian folk songs, its original compositions in traditional style, and its innovative twists that preserve the integrity of Ukrainian rhythms and sounds.

The band has met with several successes since its reorganization in 1988. Original members John Steciw and Wayne Godzicki have teamed up with two members of the band Akula, John Jaresko and Victoria Skocylas.

The success of this combination was proven by their invitation to appear in the motion picture "My Life," starring Michael Keaton and Nicole Kidman (Columbia Pictures). The band's performance of traditional Ukrainian dance music earned it high accolades and screen time in the film, as well as enthusiastic reviews of their performance.

Encouraged by their success, the band's members decided to produce a recording that captures their unique vision of popular Ukrainian music. The new recording, "Vesely Chasy," shows their versatility; musical integrity and professionalism. Two tracks, originally recorded for "My Life," are lively dance numbers, traditional in tone, and reminiscent of the band's earlier instrumentation, highlighting John Steciw's sophisticated accordion technique.

Old favorites are also here, with new, professional treatments, weaving strings, four-part vocals and carefully chosen instrumentation. "Vorozhka" is a wonderful example of a folk song updated for the 90s, professionally arranged, masterfully sung, creatively done but without losing its integrity.

"Zaprosy Mene" is a lyrical treat. The introduction to this song sets a tone of wistful melancholy. The band's vocalist, Victoria Skoczylas, exhibits remarkable voice control - expressive, bell-like and clear. She does not resort to melodramatic posturing, but uses her voice as a fine instrument, with attention to phrasing, diction and tune. Her voice builds to a controlled crescendo; she impresses with her control and beautiful timbre. The musical arrangement exhibits equal professionalism with brass parts reminiscent of the band Chicago.

By far the most intriguing track is an original dance composition "Shchezla Liubov." The song is contemporary in melody and theme - upbeat, energetic, polished with hints of classical guitar melodies, and featuring vocal trade-offs between Victoria Skoczylas and John Jaresko.

Besides being of the highest musical integrity, the band's production is professional and original. Original in the sense that all tracks were played, sung, recorded, edited, engineered and mastered by the band members themselves in their own studio at Mr. Steciw's home. This CD is a dazzling example of technology in its highest form - this stunning array of sounds was produced solely on digital keyboards, various MIDI equipment and accordion. It is truly difficult to believe that this polished, versatile sound, in places reminiscent of a flowing string section or professional brass section, was produced electronically. Quality - in music, arrangements, vocals, mood, writing and production - is woven throughout all tracks.

"Veseli Chasy 3" on CD or cassette is available for wholesale or retail purchase. For more information and ordering information contact John Jaresko, (708) 682-4106, write to: Input Productions, 2022 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622.

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