In the tapestry of our lives, there are moments when the hand of Fate gently guides us towards unexpected encounters, and such is the enchanting tale of the Slovenian trio, Širom, and the Polish virtuoso guitarist, Raphael Roginski. It's a narrative they eloquently weave, with the resonating echo of Roginski's recording, 'Raphael Rogiński - Plays John Coltrane And Langston Hughes' African Mystic Music,' subtly influencing the course of their musical union.

This collaboration transcends mere artistic partnership, for it pulsates with a shared heartbeat, one that beats in unison within the souls of both Roginski and Širom. There is a profound resonance in their individual spirits and artistic expressions. Anna Kravanja, Samo Kutin, and Iztok Koren each bear an intimate connection to ancient musical traditions, embracing a pure and unpretentious approach to making music. Their dwellings nestle them amidst the embrace of nature's splendor, and in our conversation with them, they emphasize the paramount significance of familial bonds and the simple joys of communal meals.

Yet, the harmonious tapestry woven by these four musicians transcends simplicity. Their profound adoration for a vast array of traditional instruments, from banjo and balafon to kalimba, viola, and harps, elevates their musicality to a transcendent realm. The result is an evocative and mystical ambiance, born of deeply personal narratives that seemingly conjure their own myths, yet remain firmly rooted in the present moment. Their collaborative creation is nothing short of a breath of fresh air, perpetually renewing itself in the ever-present 'now.' The exquisite track they perform together bears the title, 'I came alone into this world.'

Music from the episode

‘I Came Into This World Alone’ (Moondog) from Raphael Rogiński and Širom’s project “The World of Moondog” 

Further reading

• Raphael Rogiński / bio on culture.pl

• Širom / bio on band’s website 

• Beyond borders: Raphael Rogiński takes a spiritual trip around Eastern Europe / on wire.co.uk

• A World Beyond: An interview with Širom / on thequietus.com

Further watching

• KOOB Sessions: ŠIROM feat. RAPHAEL ROGIŃSKI in Muzika eklektika / on YouTube.com

• The World of Moondog: Raphael Rogiński, Natalia Przybysz, Širom / on YouTube.com

• Rural Underground: Širom / on YouTube.com

• ‘Electron’: Raphael Rogiński (from the album Talán) / on YouTube.com

Credits

This episode of Rebel Spirits was hosted by Debra Richards. The show is brought to you by the Adam Mickiewicz Institute.

Written, produced and scored  by Magdalena Stępień

Executive production by Move Me Media

Edited and mixed by Wojciech Oleksiak 

Copyrights

The publisher would like to thank all copyright owners for their kind permission to reproduce their material. Should, despite our intensive research, any person entitled to rights have been overlooked, legitimate claims shall be compensated within the usual provisions.