No Smoking with the Untouchables Coming to Maribor

A popular Slovenian song has been given a fresh musical interpretation nearly two decades after its creation. The beloved composition Zgodba z morja (The Story of the Sea) by Jože Umeč has received a new arrangement by members of the ensemble Ansambl Pik and singer Nika Svetlin. Alongside this new performance, they have also produced the first official music video for the track. The project aimed to remain faithful to the original while adding a sense of renewal and making the song more accessible to a new generation of listeners. Jože Umeč, the author of the song, expressed his enthusiasm over the reinterpretation. He stated that when members of Ansambl Pik asked him if he would like to record Zgodba z morja again with Nika Svetlin, a weight lifted off his chest. He noted that he had never recorded a spot for the song with the Vandrovci, but in today's times, without a spot, there is no song. He praised the performers, saying that during their first rehearsals, the musicians took his breath away, and Nika prepared him for tears with her interpretation. The music video was filmed in the picturesque location of Izola under the direction of Matic Padaršič. A special touch is the fact that the composer himself appears in the video alongside Nika’s husband, Jure Jenko. The close relationships, maritime setting, and genuine emotions further emphasize the story that the song has told for over twenty years. Another recent release from the group Grešni muzikanti is their latest polka titled Nagajivi sosed (The Mischievous Neighbor). This upbeat song features catchy melodies, humorous lyrics, and an entertaining music video that brings joy to listeners. The idea for the song came from Aljaž Kamenšek, who then handed it over to Dado Bevc, who created both the lyrics, melody, and arrangement. The song tells the story of a man who leaves home and upon returning finds everything neatly done, grass cut, surroundings perfectly arranged, lunch already waiting on the table, and his wife looking better than ever. Confused, he begins to wonder how she managed all of this, only for his wife to whisper the secret: “The neighbor jumped in.” At first, he is taken aback by various thoughts, but soon realizes that the neighbor indeed just stepped in to help. The music video for the song was shot in an idyllic location near the Grilovka chapel under the Boč. On this occasion, Grešni muzikanti sincerely thanked the Stojnšek family and the Colnerič family for allowing them to film in their beautiful environment and for supporting them throughout the process. With this new song, Grešni muzikanti aim to bring smiles to their audience’s faces and demonstrate that good interpersonal relationships and friendly neighbors can serve as inspiration even for fun folk songs. Upon its release, the band posed a question to everyone: “Do you know such a helpful neighbor who always jumps in to assist?” Members of Ansambl Pik include Renato Kamenšek on diatonic accordion and vocals, Aljaž Kamenšek on guitar and vocals, Aleš Šket on bass guitar and vocals, and Robi Belej on vocals and baritone. The revival of Zgodba z morja marks a significant moment in Slovenian music history, bringing together past and present through a collaborative effort that honors the original work while introducing it to new audiences. The music video, filmed in the historic city of Celje, blends elements of the past with contemporary production techniques, ensuring the song remains relevant and cherished by future generations. The collaboration between Jože Umeč, Nika Svetlin, and Ansambl Pik highlights the enduring appeal of classic compositions and the importance of preserving cultural heritage through modern interpretations. The involvement of the composer himself adds authenticity to the project, reinforcing the emotional depth of the song. In addition to these projects, Grešni muzikanti continue to explore themes of community and everyday life through their music. Their latest release, Nagajivi sosed, reflects the lighthearted yet meaningful aspects of human interaction, emphasizing the value of friendship and mutual support within neighborhoods. The song's success underscores the continued relevance of traditional music forms in contemporary society. Both projects showcase the versatility of Slovenian artists in adapting classic works to new contexts while maintaining their core essence. These efforts contribute to the broader narrative of cultural preservation and innovation, ensuring that traditional music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.