Album Review: Beterin Beteri Var by Hayri Şahin – A Folk Journey That Sticks
If you’re into raw, heartfelt music with a Turkish twist, Hayri Şahin’s Beterin Beteri Var might just be the folk gem you didn’t know you needed. Released under Barış Plakçılık, this album dives deep into Turkey’s rich musical roots, blending Folk, World, and Country vibes that feel like home even if you’ve never been there.
Let’s talk tracks—specifically “Beterin Beteri Var” and “Seni Sende Bulamadım.” These two absolutely slap in their own ways. The title track, “Beterin Beteri Var,” hits hard right from the start. It’s got this hypnotic rhythm that feels like it’s pulling you into a story you can’t quite explain but totally understand. Hayri Şahin’s voice? Man, it’s like he’s lived every word he sings. You don’t just hear it—you feel it. There’s no flashy production or overdone effects here; it’s pure emotion wrapped in melody. I found myself humming this one for days, probably because it’s impossible not to get hooked on its groove.
Then there’s “Seni Sende Bulamadım,” which is kinda like that friend who shows up uninvited but ends up being the life of the party. It starts off slow, almost shy, but builds into this emotional crescendo that grabs you by the soul. The lyrics are simple yet piercing, like they were written just for you. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re either nodding along or trying (and failing) not to tear up. Honestly, it’s the kind of song that makes you want to call someone you miss just to say, “Hey, I’m thinking about you.”
What stands out most about this album is how real it feels. No gimmicks, no unnecessary frills—just good ol’ storytelling through music. It’s refreshing in an era where everything seems polished to death. Listening to Beterin Beteri Var feels like sitting around a campfire with old friends, sharing stories and laughing at nothing in particular.
But here’s the kicker: after listening to this album, I couldn’t help but wonder—if Hayri Şahin ever decided to drop an instrumental version of these tracks, would it still hit as hard? Maybe it’s the lyrics that glue it all together, or maybe his voice is the secret sauce. Either way, I guess we’ll never know unless he surprises us someday.
So yeah, give Beterin Beteri Var a spin if you’re craving something authentic and soulful. Just don’t blame me if you end up daydreaming about Turkey—or calling your ex.
