Album Review: Oy Cemo by Erol Büyükburç & Elçiler – A Psychedelic Folk Gem from 1973 Turkey
Alright, let’s talk about Oy Cemo, the groovy little masterpiece by Erol Büyükburç & Elçiler. Released in 1973 under the Saner label, this album is like a time machine to a moment when Turkish music was blending folk roots with psychedelic rock vibes. It’s got that earthy feel of Folk, World, and Country genres but also throws in some trippy Rock elements that make it super unique. If you’re into raw, unfiltered sounds with a dash of mind-bending flair, this one’s for you.
Now, I gotta say, not every track hit me the same way, but two songs really stuck with me: "Ne Güzel Yaratmış Yaratan" and the title track, "Oy Cemo." Let’s break ‘em down real quick.
First up, "Ne Güzel Yaratmış Yaratan." Oh man, this tune feels like a warm hug wrapped in mysticism. The lyrics are poetic—like, legit awe-inspiring stuff about creation and beauty—and the melody just floats around your head long after it ends. There’s something magical about how they layer the instruments here; it’s simple yet so rich at the same time. You can tell these guys weren’t trying too hard—they just let the music breathe, and it works wonders. Every time I listen to this track, it kinda makes me wanna sit outside under the stars and think deep thoughts (or maybe that’s just me).
Then there’s "Oy Cemo," which gives off serious “dance-around-your-room” energy. It’s playful and wild, with those zilleri-zilleri beats kicking in (Vur Zilleri Zilleri, anyone?). Honestly, it’s impossible not to move to this one. I mean, the rhythm is infectious, and Erol Büyükburç’s vocals have this raw charm that pulls you right in. This track reminds me of old-school gatherings where everyone would sing along without overthinking it. Like, yeah, life might be messy, but hey, we’ve got music!
The whole vibe of Oy Cemo feels like it belongs in a smoky café somewhere in Istanbul—or maybe on a road trip through the Anatolian countryside. It’s nostalgic yet fresh, chaotic yet soothing. And honestly? That’s what makes it special. These tracks aren’t polished to perfection—they’re real, gritty, and full of soul.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this album now, decades later, feels almost rebellious. In a world obsessed with playlists and algorithms, hearing something this authentic is kinda revolutionary. So next time you’re scrolling Spotify looking for something different, give Oy Cemo a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself dancing like no one’s watching—or daydreaming about Turkey in the ‘70s.
Oh, and fun fact: apparently, back then people didn’t even need autotune to sound cool. Imagine that!
