Esmerine is a Canadian instrumental ensemble founded in 2002 in Montreal, known for blending classical music with contemporary post-rock and world music influences. The group was initially formed as a side project by Bruce Cawdron, a member of Godspeed You! Black Emperor, and Rebecca Foon, a cellist associated with Thee Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra. Esmerine’s music is characterized by its use of marimba, cello, and other acoustic instruments, creating a rich, textured sound that is both meditative and emotionally resonant.
The band’s name, Esmerine, is derived from the word “esmerald,” reflecting the lush and vibrant nature of their music. Their compositions often draw inspiration from global folk traditions, minimalism, and experimental music, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. Esmerine’s work is deeply evocative, often exploring themes of nature, memory, and human connection.
Esmerine gained recognition with their debut album, "If Only a Sweet Surrender to the Nights to Come Be True" (2003), which showcased their ability to weave intricate melodies and rhythms into a cohesive whole. Their second album, "Aurora" (2005), further solidified their reputation as masters of their craft. After a hiatus, the band returned with "Dalmak" (2013), an album inspired by their time in Istanbul and featuring collaborations with Turkish musicians. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating Middle Eastern influences and improvisational elements.
In 2015, Esmerine released "Lost Voices", a deeply personal album dedicated to the memory of drummer Jamie Thompson, who had passed away. The album is a poignant exploration of grief and healing, showcasing the band’s ability to convey profound emotions through their music. Their most recent work, "Mechanics of Dominion" (2017), continues to push boundaries, blending acoustic and electronic elements to create a sound that is both timeless and contemporary.
Esmerine’s music has been praised for its beauty, complexity, and emotional depth. They have performed at festivals and venues around the world, captivating audiences with their dynamic and heartfelt performances. As a collective, Esmerine continues to inspire listeners and musicians alike, proving that music can transcend genres and cultures to create something truly universal.
Discography
- If Only a Sweet Surrender to the Nights to Come Be True (2003)
- Aurora (2005)
- La Lechuza (2011)
- Dalmak (2013)
Esmerine’s 2013 album Dalmak marks a significant turning point in the band’s musical journey. This album is not just a musical work but also a product of cultural exploration and collaboration. The story of the album begins with a trip to Istanbul by founding members Bruce Cawdron and Rebecca Foon.
The enchanting streets, historical texture, and rich musical heritage of Istanbul deeply influenced the members of Esmerine. During their visit, they met Turkish musicians and had the opportunity to improvise music together. This interaction laid the foundation for the Dalmak album. The album emerged as a fusion of traditional Turkish instruments and melodies with Esmerine’s own minimalist and post-rock style.
The title “Dalmak” means to immerse oneself completely in something in Turkish. This name reflects the band’s passion for the project and their deep respect for Turkish music. On the album, traditional Turkish instruments such as the kanun, kemençe, and darbuka come together with Esmerine’s marimba and cello, creating a unique sonic world.
Dalmak is not just a musical collaboration but also an example of cross-cultural dialogue. The album, enriched with the sounds of Istanbul’s streets, improvisational performances, and studio recordings, invites listeners on a journey. Each track tells a different story, immersing the listener in both an emotional and intellectual experience.
Esmerine’s Dalmak album is a masterpiece that transcends musical boundaries, showing how different cultures can come together. This album is not only a significant work for Esmerine but also an important part of the world music scene. By carrying the spirit of Istanbul and the magic of Turkish music to the world, this work stands as one of the finest examples of the universal language of music.
Author’s Note
As an Istanbulite, the Dalmak album holds a special meaning for me. While I already loved Esmerine, hearing Turkish melodies in their music made the album feel even more familiar and close to my heart. It’s a beautiful bridge between my cultural roots and the universal language of music.
- Lost Voices (2015)
- Mechanics of Dominion (2017)
- Everything Was Forever Until It Was No More (2022)
