These Villages by Hala Strana

These Villages, the third album from Hala Strana, is a further culmination of Steven R. Smith's interest in Eastern European folk music. Smith's original, instrumental compositions are peppered with interpretations of traditional songs. Built upon layers of sustained drone & delicately plucked and bowed strings, These Villages creates a bewitching listening experience, a highlight in Smith's vast discography.

Steven R. Smith is the mind of Hala Strana, Ulaan Khol, Ulaan Passerine, Ulaan Markhor (& so many more), but also makes music under his given name. Active since the mid-90s, Smith has recorded a staggering totem of work, and every release is as good as the next.