Album Review: Samo Tako Šokadijo Moja by Šima & Zlatni Dukati
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be swept away into a Slavonian village fair, where emotions run high and every song tells a story that’s older than time itself—then this album is your ticket. Released in 1986 under the Yugoslav label Diskos, Samo Tako Šokadijo Moja isn’t just an album; it’s a celebration of life, love, tradition, and all things folk. With its raw energy and heartfelt lyrics, it sticks with you long after the needle lifts off the record.
Let me start with “Evo Hulja,” because how could I not? This track hits you right in the chest from the first note. It’s got this irresistible pull—you can almost smell the homemade rakija wafting through the air as Šima belts out lines about friendship, loyalty, and good times shared over a table full of food. You don’t need to understand Croatian to feel the warmth dripping off every word. The accordion dances around like someone spinning their partner at a wedding, and before you know it, you’re clapping along even if you swore you wouldn’t. That’s the magic of this album—it sneaks up on you when you least expect it.
Then there’s “Slavonsko Kolo,” which is basically a masterclass in making people want to get up and move. Whether you grew up dancing kolo or have two left feet, this track grabs hold of something primal inside you. The rhythm is hypnotic, almost tribal, but still so grounded in everyday joy. It reminds me of those summer nights when everyone spills out onto the streets, laughing too loud and sweating under string lights. There’s no pretense here—just pure, unfiltered happiness packed into three minutes of music. By the end of it, you’ll either be breathless or wishing you were back home for a festival you didn’t realize you missed.
What makes this album stand out isn’t just the catchy melodies or the foot-stomping beats—it’s the way it captures a slice of Yugoslavia frozen in time. Listening to tracks like “Pjevat Će Slavonija” or “Stari Graničari,” you can hear the pride, the history, and the struggles woven into every verse. These aren’t just songs; they’re memories set to music. And credit where it’s due—the production team nailed it. From Ivan Herman’s design work to Fabijan Šovagović lending his voice to interludes, everything feels intentional yet refreshingly real.
Now, here’s the thing: Samo Tako Šokadijo Moja won’t win any awards for slickness or modern polish. Some might call it rough around the edges, but that’s exactly why it works. It doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is—a deeply personal ode to Slavonia and its people. In a world obsessed with perfection, albums like this remind us that beauty often lies in imperfection.
So yeah, give this one a spin. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself daydreaming about fields of sunflowers, old men playing cards, and women singing while they cook. Oh, and one last thought—if Šima ever decided to drop a remix version of these tracks? Well, let’s just say I’d trade my Wi-Fi password for that in a heartbeat.
