Elusive Turkish psych folk back on vinyl! When you hear Selda Bagcan's music discussed (which is rarely, to say the least), it's generally in the context of politics and how this self-titled record from 1976 contained a number of non-traditional points of reference, at least in traditional Turkish music. But even outside of the lyrical content, this remains a stunning debut and a truly deep slice of Turkish psych-pop. The wah-wah and fuzz funk of "Yaz Gazeteci Yaz," the epic strings of "Nasirli Eller" and the hypnotic repetition of "Ince Ince" all appear within the album's first half - needless to say, it's a pretty varied record. Atop these non-traditional backings, Selda's voice remains a haunting and powerful constant. Also worth hearing: "Niye Cattin Kaslarini," and "Utan Utan." Another fascinating and hopelessly rare reissue from Finders Keepers. Recommended.

• Finders Keepers Records 2006 / 2013

reviewed by CLR 07/2010