Listen on Dublab:
https://www.dublab.com/shows/silk-road-secret-agents

Silk Road Secret Agents is Discotchari’s monthly debriefing of music that highlights the fusion of musical movements around the world and throughout the ages with ethnic identities rooted in the diverse Silk Road region. We also dive deep into the history of artists whose life stories and music evoke dramatic cinema fit for Tarantino, Kiarostami, Wong Kar-Wai, Youssef Chahine and other legendary directors. These artists often times relied on their musical talent to navigate complex social structures, unite people from different backgrounds, and preserve their ethnic roots by reimagining them in new forms: inspiring the name “Silk Road Secret Agents”.
The basis of the Silk Road’s influence was local demand and appreciation for foreign supply of spices, materials, knowledge and all other tangible forms of culture. Alongside our radio show, we bring these values into the real world by playing and promoting live events featuring local talent who collectively embody the second metaphor of “Silk Road Secret Agents”: music selectors and artists acting as ambassadors and creators of international dance and roots music that is embedded with traditions catering to multinational audiences commonly found in cities with rich social fabric.

Dublab Radio Show, Guest Mixes, & Live Sets

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Artist: John Bilezikjian, Raja Zahr
Album: Something Different
Label: Discotchari
Catalogue Number: DSC001
Barcode: 197644375011
Release Date: November 3rd, 2023
Genre: World, Psychedelic Rock
License: courtesy of the artists
Rights: © ℗ Discotchari 2023

[DSC001] John Bilezikjian, Raja Zahr - Something Different

Discotchari has uncovered an entire deadstock run of this ‘45, still in the factory boxes from 1970, and will be repackaging them as the exciting first release of the rare groove label! Previously unheard material from the most progressive oud player of the 20th century: John Bilezikjian and the Elias Rahbani of Burbank-via-Beirut: Raja Zahr. Hundreds of "deadstock", 7” 45pm units, plus digital downloads and streaming on all platforms will be available November 3rd, 2023!

A dynamic duo too ambitious for its own good, Something Different produced a lone '45 RPM together that ended up getting shelved as the artists' respective solo careers took off. Taking turns on lead, a barely 21-year-old John Bilezikjian plays a variety of strings including oud, bass and harpsichord alongside young Raja Zahr showcasing his talent in an arsenal of percussion.

"Zulu Man" is generally accepted to be the Side A of this '45, and secondary sources are inconclusive about who sang vocals - the songwriter himself John or perhaps one of Nose Records' session musicians credited on the center label. The track is a final breath of psychedelic 60's air, leaning more towards the obscurities of Gandalf and King Crimson than the soundtracks of the decade like Led Zeppelin's debut or "Are You Experienced?" The song is more epic poem than psych rock, measuring an African shaman against the weight of the world while John's oud pulls on the listener’s heart strings.

"Chemical Reaction" defies genre; it is the theme to its own world of sandy landscapes and scorching sun. "Lawrence of Arabia meets Hawaii Five-O"; "Cleopatra meets Baywatch", the scenarios are endless when it comes to properly categorizing the high times and low lunges this track can create on a dance floor. If it weren't for the love that John and Raja each had for their roots, their musical careers might have evolved differently together and Something Different could have been a familiar phrase for fans of The Eagles, Pink Floyd, and other introspective bands.

Originally pressed by Nose Records in 1970

Side A:
1. Zulu Man – 3:17

Side B:
2. Chemical Reaction – 2:37

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Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us!
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John Bilezikjian, Raja Zahr - Something Different [DSC001]

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Kamo Hovanisyan - Hishadag Kamoits... Mekhagneres
("My Cloves: In Memory of Kamo") [2005]

A greatest hits compilation CD of recordings by Kamo Hovanisyan, 1984-88

Կամո Հովանիսյան - Հիշատակ Կամոից... Մեխակներս

1. Kanchir Indz ("Call Me") / Կանչիր Ինձ
2. Kyanqoum Ch'khroves ("Don't Be Upset In Life") / Կյանքում Չղ Խռովես
3. Mekhagneres ("My Cloves") / Մեխակներս
4. Kantsnen Orer ("The Days Will Go By") / Կամցնեն Օրեր
5. Terevatap ("Leaffall") / Տերեվաթափ
6. Seres Kez Tvetsi ("I Gave You My Love") / Սերս քեզ Տվեցի
7. Khent Aghtchig ("Crazy Girl") / Խենթ Աղջիկ
8. Antsir Navak ("Pass, Little Ship") / Անցիր Նավակ
9. Sirel Em, Siroum Em ("I Loved You Then, I Love You Now") / Սիրել Եմ, Սիրում Եմ
10. Oor Gnam, Oor Taparem ("Where Would I Go, Where Would I Wander?") / Ուր Գնամ, Ուր Թափառեմ
11. Usta Chale ("Play, Master!") / Ուստա Չալե
12. Dardzel E Mut ("It Became Dark") / Դարձել Է Մութ

Arrangements: Igor Kasyaninko & Kamo Hovanisyan
Guitar solo: Yakov Kavalenko
Bass guitar: Alexander Nesterov
Drums: Vasili Kalekdzonov, Victor Millman
Saxophone: Alexsey Yakulin
Recorded by: Araik Muradian
Mastering by: Ara Andranik

SR-19843; compact disc digital data
Available worldwide at www.narek.com

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Kamo Hovanisyan - Hishadag Kamoits... Mekhagneres ("My Cloves: In Memory of Kamo") [2005] / Կամո Հովանիսյան - Հիշատակ Կամոից *80s Armenian Rabiz, Pop*

Harouth Bezdjian - Tsolker / Reflets ("Reflections") [1985]
Հարութ Բեզջյան - Ցոլքեր

Privately pressed and released in Paris, France
MPO; HB-0285

"The contribution made by KOMITAS [Soghomon Soghomonian - 1869-1935] to Armenian music is enormous and of inestimable value. Today, numerous performers, composers, musicologists and ethnologists continue to draw from his monumental work. Along with Magar Yegmalian and Gara Mourza, Komitas was one of the first to show a real interest in rural folklore through Armenian songs. During his long voyages through the Armenian provinces of the Ottoman and Russian Empires, region by region, village after village, he transcribed and arranged hundreds of songs and melodies. These represent generations of oral tradition, a cultural heritage consisting of social and linguistic customs that were otherwise destined to disappear. During his active period (1893-1916) he devoted himself to presenting the specifically Armenian character of this music, through his conferences and public concerts in capitals such as Tiflis [Tbilisi], Constantinople [Istanbul], Vienna, Berlin and Paris. Having miraculously survived the events of April 24th, 1915, he developed sever psychological problems and was hospitalized in Paris until his death. A return to one's cultural sources throughout the songs selected in this record, is not simple nostalgia for what has been and is now disappearing. Instead, it is a way of recognizing and taking a stance on a modern problem and its future development. Today, the new generations of the Armenian diaspora face a serious problem of identification. As they are gradually assimilated into the social and economic structures of their adopted countries, the traditions that provided their parents and grandparents with their own cultural identity are becoming inert and fading further in the past. The "REFLECTIONS" of a tradition can be help uncover traces of a cultural identity once thought to be nearly lost, can strengthen that identity and its autonomy and help it open to others. May these "REFLECTIONS" then, help inspire a freedom and independence of culture and tradition everywhere in the creation of the truly pluralistic world we so much desire.

Karoun a, tzoun a arel... It is spring, it has snowed...
Moranal mi... Do not forget..."

-Harouth Bezdjian

Face A:
1. Tchinar Es ("You're A Plane Tree") / Չինար Ես
2. Hov Arek ("Weather, Be Cool") / Հով Արեք
3. Yes Saren Goukayi ("I Come To The Mountains")/ Ես Սարեն Կուգայի
4. Alakyaz ("Alagoz Mountain") / Ալագյազ
5. Gantche Groung ("Call, Crane") / Կանչէ Կռունկ

Face B:
6. Akh Maral Djan... Ervoum Em ("Oh Beautiful Dear, I'm Burning") / Ախ Մարալ Ջան… էրվում Եմ
7. Kele Kele ("Come, Come") / Քելե Քելե
8. Goujn Ara ("Bring The Pitcher") / Կուժն Առա
9. Yerguinken Ambel E ("The Sky Is Cloudy") / Երկինքն Ամպել Է
10. Karoun A ("It's Spring") / Գարուն Ա

Adaptation/Arrangements: Harouth Bezdjian
Voice, Acoustic Guitar: Harouth Bezdjian
Synthesizer: Hervé Le Duc
Bass Guitar: Philippe Paris
Sound Engineer: Gérard Chiron
Photography/Design: George Meguerditchian
English Translations: John Strand
Artistic Direction: Gérard Chiron
All songs transcribed by Komitas

Translated From French:

"I thank everyone who helped and encouraged me to finish this album, particularly Messieurs Nourhan Fringhian, Garo Poladian, Vahé Berberian, Gérard Chiron, Nazareth Hékimian, Hervé Le Duc, Georges Meguerditchian, Hagop Papazian, Philippe Paris, John Strand, the Gamk Journal, as well as all my fellow expatriates and diasporans around the world. This album has seen the light of day thanks to the exceptional support from Messieurs Nourhan Fringhian and Garo Poladian. I dedicate this album to my parents, [my wife] Myriam and my son Nareg." 
- Harouth Bezdjian

Harouth Bezdjian - Tsolker / Reflets ("Reflections") [1985] Հարութ Բեզջյան - Ցոլքեր

"Silk Road Secret Agents" on Dublab:
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Sokrat - Shanbe Shab ("Saturday Night")
S.M. & Iran Music, 1993

"Featuring new works from the composer Andranik (Asatourian)":

Side One:
1. Shanbe Shab ("Saturday Night"), lyrics by Bijan Samandar
2. Ali Baba, lyrics by Homa Mirafshar (folklore)
3. Arzoo,  lyrics by Bijan Samandar

Side Two:
4. Sanam ("Ey Sanam"), lyrics by Homa Mirafshar (Afghan folklore)
5. Eshgh ("Love"), lyrics by Bijan Samandar
6. Yar Man ("My Friend"), lyrics by Bijan Samandar

Song arrangements by Andranik (Asatourian)
Violin by Behrouz Panahi
Zarb and Daf by Sirous Aliabadi

"Thanks to the kindness of Homa Mirafshar, Bijan Samandar, and by dear friend Andranik, with whose help and cooperation this album was made possible" - Socrates (Sokrat)

Produced by: S.M. (Sokrat Martinyan)
Pictures by: Photo Simon
Sound Engineer: Avi Hochberg
Recorded At: Westworld Studio (West World Recorders)
Cover Design by: D.F.D.
Distributed by: Iran Music

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Sokrat Martinyan - Shanbe Shab ("Saturday Night") [1993]

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from “Yorgantz (self-titled) - Volume 3”, released in 1979.

Side One:
1. Togh Haïretka Togh Maïretka (Yorgantz – Melikian)
2. Ara Vay Vay (Folk; Yorgantz – Herman Damlamaian)
3. Haïastan Achkhar (Yorgantz)
4. Tinagapoussa (Folk, Yorgantz)
5. Djaness Ghourban Tzez (Yorgantz – Damlamaian – Melikian – Ouzounian)

Side Two:
1. Sassouni Bess Veheïn (Yorgantz – S. Ouzounian)
2. Yerguinkn Anouch (Dededjian)
3. Meghr Ou Chakar Ess (Folk, Yorgantz)
4. My Way (Revaux – Anka – C. Francois)
5. Ou Etais Tu Mon Dieu? (Dededjian – Yorgantz – P. Saka)

Album produced by Marten Yorgantz
Music supervised and arranged by Marten Yorgantz, Herman Damlamaian and Jean Breuzet
Recording engineer: Jean-Pierre Gouache
Assistant engineer: R. Altounian
Album recorded at the ADS Studios
Cover photos: Iskender, Sacha
Special thanks to Dr. Abraham Tassoumian and L. Bekian

Distribution Yorgantz
Production: 40, rue Alphonse Melun – 94230 Cachan – France
Tél.: 665-18-90

Dillard et Cie Imp. Paris; Imprimé en France

Modernizing 🇦🇲 identity through its undiscovered roots, music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us! 🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿

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Yorgantz - Djaness Ghourban Tzez [1979]

Yorgantz - Ara Vay Vay [1979]

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We could tell that the previous owner really cared about this record by their handwriting of the tracklist on the jacket back cover. Being our investigative selves we looked up the previous owner "Diki Shields" and were touched by what we discovered:

Eurydice "Diki" Shields began dancing as a child at festivals and weddings with her Greek parents. Because she was usually the only person from Riverside besides Saul Frommer who attended workshops or dance camps in the Los Angeles, San Diego, and Santa Barbara areas, Diki began teaching folk dance at UCR. Diki Shields passed away peacefully of cancer at her home in Mission Viejo, California on March 13, 2014." (taken from www.socalfolkdance.org)

Diki's life and memory is an embodiment of what we intend for this channel: love for our neighbors and love for the dances we share. Referring to Discogs, the band behind the music is The Orchestra Of The Shemiram Assyrian Folklore Group Of Tehran, led by Mrs. Lili Teimourazi and recorded in 1962 in Tehran, Iran. The album features a full gamut of different folk dances native to the Mediterranean and land further east.

Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us! 🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿

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Support Discotchari

Assyrian Folk - Aino Kchume (Sheikhani) [1962]

Assyrian Folk - Janiman Kavrakh [1962]

Assyrian Folk - Sheikhari [1962]

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🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿
Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us!
Sublabel of @chezcritique

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Hovig Krikorian was born in Baghdad in 1953 where he started singing as a small boy. At the age of 14 he sang with the Baghdad Armenian Youth Association Ensemble, as a soloist, and achieved fame in his teens in the Armenian Community of that city. He sang also on Iraqi television and radio and, at the same time, was soloist with Baghdad's Gomidas Choris.

in 1975 he came to Los Angeles where again his singing achieved great success. He really established himself as an interpreter of Armenian music when he sang the leading role in the operetta 'Ashough Garib.' Great additional recognition followed in the opera "Anoush" in which he sang the role of Saroy before an audience of 3000 in the Pasadena Auditorium. He became so well known that, in 1977, he was invited to Iran where he appeared in concerts, in Teheran, to great acclaim. It was there that he made this album. He has now returned to Los Angeles where he continues to be received by large and enthusiastic audiences wherever he appears. 

Side A
AZK PARABANTZ - ԱԶԳ ՓԱՐԱՊԱՆԾ
CHEM GAROGH HERANAL - ՉԵՄ ԿԱՐՈՂ ՀԵՌԱՆԱԼ
HAYOTS GANAYK - ՀԱՅՈՑ ԿԱՆԱՅՔ
TE ARY ANOOSH YAR - ԴԵ ԱՐԻ ԱՆՈՒՇ ԵԱՐ
GANTCHOOM EM - ԿԱՆՉՈՒՄ ԵՄ
ARA VAY VAY - ԱՐԱ ՎԱՅ ՎԱՅ

SIDE B
TZAGHIR INTS HAMAR - ԾԱՂԿԻՐ ԻՆԶ ՀԱՄԱՐ
NERIR INTS MAMA - ՆԵՐԻՐ ԻՆԶ ՄԱՄԱ
ARAKIL - ԱՐԱՔԻԼ
GARS, GARS - ԿԱՐՍ, ԿԱՐՍ
ASOOM EYIR - ԱՍՈՒՄ ԷԻՐ
KENARAGAN - ՔՆԱՐԱԿԱՆ

Very special thanks to Mr. Petros Akopian for his assistance which made this album possible.

Music Arrangements by: Serog and Armik, Musicians, Symphony Orchestra of Teheran. Recorded at Pop Studios in Teheran, Iran.

Mixing Engineer: John Greek
Master Engineer: Pat Burnette
Produced by: Petros Akopian
Album Design: Vram Sarafian
Photography by: Photo Gallery Saye, Teheran, Iran

Hovig Krikorian - Hayots Ganayk [1977]

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🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿
Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us!
Sublabel of @chezcritique

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Seda Aznavour - Chants Traditionnels Armeniens (Made in U.S.A.)
Released by Trema in 1988

Face A
1. Yegh Sirour Yar Djan (Viens mon bien aimé) 3'26 SEDA.
2. Aravodian Archalouïsin (Matin à l'aube) 4'15 SEDA.
3. Siro Madanï (La bague d'Amour) 2'17 SEDA.
4. Dele Yaman; Erevan Bagh Ym Arel; Gulu Djan (Pot pourri) 5'09 SEDA.
5. Sirerk (Chant d'Aumour) 3'00 MISHA et AÏDA.

Face B
6. Yes Kou Rimet'n Tchim Kidi (Je ne connais pas tes mérites) 4'03 SEDA et CHARLES.
7. Votch Mi Dzarigh Kou Pourmonke Tchouni (Aucune fleur n'a ton parfum) 3'18 SEDA.
8. Maïrigh (Maman) 2'23 SEDA.
9. Libanan (Liban) 4'21 SEDA.
10. Haiotz Kini (Le vin d'Arménie) 2'58 SEDA.

Orchestre 
Armen Aharonyan (1/2/3/4/6/7/8/9/10)
Bernard Gerard (5) 

Harmonises par Aïda et Georges Garvarentz (1/2/3/4/6/7/8/10)
Aïda Aznavour et Kevork Yambekian (5)

Enregistré À Hollywood au Quad-Tack Studio
Ingénieur du son: Pat Purnett
Enregistrement des voix: Studio Damien - Paris
Mixage: Studio Guillaume Tell - Paris
Ingénieur du son: Roland Guillotel

Produit par Aïda Aznavour-Garvarentz

Supervision Musicale: Georges Garvarentz
Coordination: Lévon Sayan
Photo recto: Charles Aznavour
Concept-Maquette: Jean-Philippe Bertrand

Direction: Jacques Revaux Et Regis Talar
Sous License MUSARM
Minitel: 3615 + Disquel
Distribution Trema / Pathe Marconi

Seda Aznavour (feat. Charles Aznavour) - Yes Kou Rimet'n Tchim Kidi [1988]

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🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿
Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us!
Sublabel of @chezcritique

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Marietta Badalyan - Anants Karot ("Endless Missing") [1988] 

Translated from Russian:

"One evening an unfamiliar singer came to visit us from television screens. Modestly perched with a guitar in the corner - and charmed everyone with penetration, lyricism , tenderness and sadness in their songs.

Marietta Badalyan was accepted by her listeners immediately and unconditionally. The singer is amazingly accurate in her choice of intonations, both when she sings the songs of Nadezhda Yeghiazaryan, who subtly feels the amazing lyricism of Vahan Teryan, and when she sings Komitas or the romances of Romanos Melikyan, and when she brings her songs to our attention.

The first disc recorded by M. Badalyan is a long-awaited event for her fans, and, hopefully, it will introduce the widest range of listeners to the singer's work."

Sound engineer: E. Shahnazaryan
Editor: K. Simonyan
Artist: A. Dyachkov

Translated From Armenian Cyrillic:

Side 1

1. Ah Inch Lav E (Oh, How Wonderful)
(music and lyrics by O. Tumanyan) - 2:00

2. Yes Kgam (I Will Come)
(N. Yeghiazaryan - V. Teryan) - 3:09

3. Yes Blbul Em (I'm A Nightingale)
(R. Melikyan - A. Khnkoyan) - 2:30

4. Karoun (Spring)
(N. Yeghiazaryan - V. Teryan) - 3:59

5. Sirts Tsavum E (My Heart Hurts)
(N. Yeghiazaryan - V. Teryan) - 4:10

6. Yes Kgam, Durd Kbanas (I'll Come, Open The Door For Me)
(M. Badalyan - A. Sagiyan) - 3:20

Side 2

1. Kakavik (Partridge)
(Komitas - H. Tumanyan) - 1:29

2. Vard (Rose)
(R. Melikyan - I.V. Goethe, translated by O. Tumanyan) - 3:14

3. Pntrum Es Du (What Are You Looking For?)
(M. Badalyan - A. Sagiyan) - 2:40

4. Ashnamut (Autumn)
(M. Badalyan - A. Sagiyan) - 2:04

5. Uri (Willow) 
(M. Badalyan - A. Isahakyan) - 2:15

6. Ashun (Fall)
(N. Yeghiazaryan - S. Mikaelyan) - 3:00

7. Indz Nman Takhtsot (With Sadness)
(M. Badalyan - K. Avakyan) - 4:30

Marietta Badalyan, Guitar - Armen Vardanyan - Guitar

Marietta Badalyan - Karoun (Spring) [1988]

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John Berberian - The Dance Album [1978]
Olympia Records; OLP-1003

John Berberian, Oud
With featured vocalists Onnik Dinkjian, Jack Baghsarian

Side 1:
1. Tamzara
2. Mechus Gyank Chi Menatz (vocalist - Jack Baghsarian)
3. Karnan Mekhag (vocalist - Onnik Dinkjiian) *
4. Medley.....Yeraz / Hovivner / Bijo

Side 2:
5. Na Mi Naz Uni (vocalist - Onnik Dinkjian)
6. Yeregoyan Bar
7. Le Le Yar (vocalist - Jack Baghsarian) *
8. Hale

*Lyrics by David Attarian

Performers:
John Berberian - Oud, Violin, Mandolin
Jack Baghsarian, Onnik Dinkjian - Vocalists
David Attarian - Accordion
Ara Dinkjian - Acoustic Guitar
Johno Dolbashian - Dumbeg, Davool, Percussion
Chris Marashlian - Bass Guitar
John Vartan - Doudoog, Srink

Credits:
Recording Engineer, Musical Director, Musical Arrangements - John Berberian
Cover Photography - Paul Frankian
Color Separations - Ohan Armoudian
Album Printing - George Paroonagian, Quality Photoengraving

For record information write:
Olympia Records
634 Victoria Terrace, Paramus, N.J. 07652
(This album is also available on 8-track tape.)

🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿
Modernizing ancient roots w/ music you’ve never heard and timeless lifestyle products. Come kef with us!
Sublabel of @chezcritique

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John Berberian - Na Mi Naz Uni ("She's A Little Shy") [1978]

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Ashur Sargis Sings for Ancient Assyria [1975]
AS-7250, © PRODUCED BY ASHUR SARGIS, 5839 CAHUENGA BOULEVARD, NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA 91601

"His sensational vocals and guitar magic make this dynamic young artist an international hit with talent to burn..." -IL DISCO

In a voice enriched by his ageless heritage and blended with the contemporary sounds of today, Ashur Sargis offers music as irresistible as moonlight on the Tigris. Small wonder, for Ashur (born in 1949) comes to the US from his beloved Bet Nahren, literally translated meaning "Land between two rivers- the Tigris and the Euphrates" Appropriately, his first hit song which he himself arranged - composed by Benyamin Melco - is called "Bet Nahren." His explosive talents were first noted while he was a member of the local church choir and, urged on by family and friends, he made his first night club appearance during the height of the following tourist season. Word spread like wildfire: Here is a star the world should recognize, And audiences and reviewers alike have done just that.

In Chicago, his first stop in the US, fans jammed the Assyrian conventions and other civic functions where he performed to enthusiastic crowds. Singing in fluent English, Persian as well as Assyrian he was asked for encore after encore. Now in Hollywood, his unique wav with a song is receiving the attention normally reserved for long-established stars.

Listeners will discover in this album the abundant reasons for Ashur's success. With his innate musical gifts as a basis, he takes much of his inspiration from ancient Assyrian folk lore telling of love, stories of wars fought (some lost, some won), songs filled with laughter and tears. Each is handsomely arranged by Ashur or his friend, the one and only Bijan Azarmi; and many are actually composed by Ashur himself.

Backed by drums of Eddy Petros, electric cordovax, piano of Bijan Azarmi, and guitars, Ashur creates music to be enjoyed again and again by fans of all ages.

Side One
1. LE MANSHEN NAK ("I Will Never Forget You")
2. BET NAHREN ("The Land Between Two Rivers")
3. LIB BA CHEERA ("Broken Heart")
4. NAJIB SORET TA ("A Lovely Assyrian Girl")
5. BRATIT SHAM MERAN ("The Daughter Of Samerames")

SIDE TWO
6. ROOSH JWANKA ("Wake Up Young Man")
7. BIA WIN NAK K YE ( "I Will Give You My Life")
8. JWANKA SAWJOL ("Assyrian Young People")
9. LEN B. KSHAWA ("I Do Not Think So My Love")

Credits:
Liner Notes: Janice May
Engineer. John Cevetello 
Photography: Waltin Merza 
Album Design: Ashur Sargis 
Special Thanks To: Ingrid Lochmatow, Dr. Robert I. Mar-Elia, Ashur Givargis, James G. Elia, Firouz Sepanlou

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Ashur Sargis - Roosh Jwanka ("Wake Up Young Man") [1975]

Ashur Sargis - Lib Ba Cheera ("Broken Heart") [1975]

Ashur Sargis - Bet Nahren ("The Land Between Two Rivers") [1975]

B1 - John Bilezikjian, Raja Zahr - Chemical Reaction [Digital Master]

A1 - John Bilezikjian, Raja Zahr - Zulu Man [Digital Master]

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Apo Sarkissian - Gisherain Serenad
1976; Sevan Records – STEREO 67L1976
Apo Sarkissian & Sevan Band

"A native of Yerevan, Armenia, Apo Sarkissian began his musical training in that city studying violin and composition. At the age of 16 he came to the United States. Within two years he organized the Sevan Armenian Band which came to be very popular on the East Coast of the U.S. among the American-Armenian public.

Apo Sarkissian's 1975 tour of South America proved very successful and introduced his new sound and poetic style to the South American Armenians. The lyrics and composition of Apo's Armenian songs are of the contemporary Western European style. His songs are universal in their appeal because of the universal nature of the subject matter.

This new recording entitled "Gisherain Serenad" features the original compositions of Apo Sarkissian. In several compositions Apo has his talented brother Sako Sarkissian as a collaborator. Sako's versatility in mastering many musical instruments has contributed greatly to the creation of this album." - Alex O. Aliksanyan

"I like to think of the Sevan Band first as friends, secondly as artists. The band is constantly advancing with their perfectionist goals. The efforts of Sako, Khachik and Harry have been greatly appreciated making it a pleasant and stimulating experience working with the group. The is the latest sound of the Sevan Band and its the best we've done (except for the one to come)." - Apo Sarkissian

Side A:
1. Gisherain Serenad ("Night Serenade") - 3:05
2. Margarita - 3:12
3. Mi Kueghi Mech ("In A Village") - 3:05
4. Mama - 3:40
5. Voronum Em ("I'm Searching") [Popular] - 3:40
6. De Mi Gna Herana ("Don't Go And Disappear") - 3:10

Side B:
1. Im High Jogovourt ("My Armenian People") [Popular, A. Sarkissian] - 2:28
2. Es Mi Vorskan Em Sari ("I Am A Mountain Hunter") [Popular] - 3:25
3. Mi Ereko Er ("It Was One Evening") - 2:27
4. Et Ko Siro Hamar ("For That Love of Yours") - 3:05
5. Roza Roza [Popular, A. Sarkissian] - 3:50
6. Erevan Erevan [Popular, A. Sarkissian] - 3:17

All selections by A. Sarkissian except where indicated.

Produced By: Sevan Records
Executive Producer: Alex O. Aliksanyan
Cover Design: Sahnour Varjabedian
Photos: Jack Dermenjian
Recorded At: Minot Sound Studios, New York
Engineers: Ron Carran, Ted
Arrangements By: Sako Sarkissian, Jack Samsonian, Steve Tavidian
Chorus: Hilda Takesian, Pepi Derderian
Drums: Harry Garabedian
Percussion: Mustafa & Ronnie
Bass: Khachik Garabedian
Guitars & Boozouki: Avram Pengas
String Orchestrations & Keyboards: Sako Sarkissian
Trumpet, Sax & Clarinet: Vasile Snacoveanu, Steve Tavidian

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Apo Sarkissian - Gisherain Serenad ("Night Serenade") [1976]

Listen on Dublab:
https://www.dublab.com/shows/silk-road-secret-agents

Our dublab DJs have united for a nonstop marathon of mixes to carry you through the end of our 2023 membership drive.

This mix is from Discotchari and is a guided meditation led by the oud, as heard on vinyl produced by twelve Armenian virtuosos from 1962 to 1980.

By supporting dublab, you support an ecosystem of generous artists and activists – please consider becoming a sustaining member today!

(05/30/23) Silk Road Secret Agents: Oud Guided Meditations

"Silk Road Secret Agents" on Dublab:
https://www.dublab.com/shows/silk-road-secret-agents

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V.N. Eastern Sound Recording Presents: Varujan - Sweet Mother ("Anoush Mayr Im") Vol. 1

Վարուջան - Անուշ Մայր Իմ
Stereo V.N. 2937 A/B

Arranged and Conducted by: Norayr Demirdjian
Choir Section: Maro Partamian

Side 1:
1. Anoush Mayr Im (Music - N. Demirdjian, Words - Nadia Isguzar)
2. Pari Yegak (Ti-Laï-Laï-Li) (Traditional, Words - Nadia Isguzar)
3. Hayrig Jan (Music - N. Demirdjian, Words - Nadia Isguzar)
4. Hey Jan Yerevan (Traditional)
5. Tcheknagh Yeraz (R. Amirkhanian)
6. Hayotz Ganantch Karoon (A. Aivazian)

Side 2:
1. Medley
a. Hayasdani Zov Kini (Traditional)
b. Khentchouyki Yerk (Music - G. Zakarian, Words - Sarmen)
c. Ankhelk Marte (Traditional)
2. Hay Herosneru Yerke (Traditional)
3. Yerevan Pagh Yem Arel (Gomidas)
4. Khentchouyk (Music - N. Demirdjian, Words - Nadia Isguzar)
5. Gulnara (Music - A. Aivazian, Words - H. Ghougasian)

Recorded at: C + C Recording Studios Inc., NY
Recording Engineer: Costa Colligas
Photography by: Anoush
Cover Design: Sona Gumusian

V.N Eastern Sound Recording U.S.A.
Copyright 1982, All Rights Reserved

Any copying or reproduction without permission strictly prohibited.

74 West 47th Street
New York, NY 10036
Telephone: (212) 719 - 4108

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Varujan - Hey Jan Yerevan / Հեյ Ջան Երեվան ("Dear Yerevan") [1982]

"Silk Road Secret Agents" on Dublab:
https://www.dublab.com/shows/silk-road-secret-agents

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Hrair Aprahamian - Siroum Em [1981]
Հրայր Աբրահամեան - Սիրում Եմ

Side A:
1. Siroum Em * ("I Love You") / Սիրում Եմ
2. Partzer Sarer ("High Mountains") / Բարձր Սարեր
3. Groungnere Knatzin ("The Cranes Have Gone") / Կռունկները Գնացին
4. Ourakh Bar ("Happy Dance") / Ուրախ Պար
5. Yes Kez Siretzi ("I Loved You") / Ես Քեզ Սիրեցի
6. Narine / Նարինէ

Side B:
1. Ashoun E, Ashoun ("Autumn, Autumn) / Աշուն Է, Աշուն
2. Kisher Ou Tzereg ("Night And Day") / Գիշեր ու Ցերեկ
3. Te Ari ("Come Here") / Դէ Արի
4. Volor Molor ("Twist, Twist") / Ոլոր Մոլոր
5. Akh Im Jampen ("Oh My Path") / Ախ Իմ Ճամբեն
6. Harso Jan ("Lovely Bride") / Հարսօ Ճան

* Music & Lyrics by M. Melikian

Vocals and Drums... Hrair Aprahamian
Keyboard.................. Ando
Guitar........................ Gevork
Bass Guitar............... Nshan
Drums....................... Vartan
Arrangements.......... Andranig & Hrair
Recording Engineer: Mike
Recorded At: Quadtech Studios
Copyright: 1981, Los Angeles, U.S.A.
Stereo LP

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Hrair Aprahamian - Partzer Sarer ("High Mountains") / Հրայր Աբրահամեան - Բարձր Սարեր [1981]

"Silk Road Secret Agents" on Dublab:
https://www.dublab.com/shows/silk-road-secret-agents

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Munir Bachir - Music From Iraq to Kuwait [1974]
Pathé – 2C 054 - 11.804
Imported & Distributed through Peters International

Face 1:
1. Galla'a......................... 2:25
2. Hed Essaâd................ 2:55
3. Salam Yalli.................. 2:30
4. Sin Dhelwanin............. 2:15
5. Fazza Galbi................. 2:05
6. Sout Chami................. 2:15
7. Sam'ri.......................... 2:20
8. Wan Ya Galb............... 2:35

Face 2:
1. Alouspour Ettaïr.......... 2:15
2. Karkaïan (Gergayaan)  2:15
3. Khayyali....................... 2:30
4. Chehlillah..................... 2:05
5. Nara Adhaman............ 3:20
6. Fi Hawa Badri.............. 2:25
7. Pouk Ennakhl.............. 3:45

Arrangements: Munir Bachir
Made in France

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Munir Bachir - Karkaïan (Gergayaan) [1974]

dublab.com

(05/28/24) Silk Road Secret Agents: Do Androids Dream of Electric Camels?

Silk Road Secret Agents is Discotchari’s monthly debriefing of music that highlights the fusion of musical movements around the world and throughout the ages with ethnic identities rooted in the diverse Silk Road region. We also dive deep into the history of artists whose life stories and music evoke dramatic cinema fit for Tarantino, Kiarostami, Wong Kar-Wai, Youssef Chahine and other legendary directors. These artists often times relied on their musical talent to navigate complex social structures, unite people from different backgrounds, and preserve their ethnic roots by reimagining them in new forms: inspiring the name “Silk Road Secret Agents.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We have a very special episode for you today: environmental, experimental, and electronic Japanese imports – with the obi sleeves! Speaking of obi sleeves, the commercial head-rush of city pop music in Japan was naturally followed by a musical movement emphasizing balance and harmony with natural surroundings; guided by the ancient Japanese principle of “nagomi”. This show highlights the influences of 80s environmental music on the full scope of electronic genres that emerged in Japan throughout the 90s; produced by industry legends, political activists, and future stars from the underground. Listen in for a tour through all of Japan’s unique soundscapes, from lush forests and crashing waves to imposing skyscrapers and rhythmic metro lines.

TRACKLIST:

Takashi Kokubo – Good Morning
Yoshiaki Ochi – Beatsonic
Yutaka Hirose – Humming The Sea
Rika Kayama – Unknown Hometown
Inoyamaland – Glass Chime
Yas-Kaz – Jasmin
Shiho Yabuki – Energy Flow (Ki No Nagare)
Yoshi Ojima – Organic Steps
Hiroshi Yoshimura – Hoh River
Susumu Hirasawa – Behelit
Akiro Ito – W・A・T・E・R
Towa Tei – Son Of Bambi
Yoshinori Sunahara – Elegant World
Susumu Yokota – Cat, Mouse and Me
Rei Harakami – Bioscope
Tetsu Inoue – Holy Dance
Ken Iishi – Overlap
Denki Groove – Stingray
Cornelius – Mic Check
Masahiro Sugaya – Until the End of the World

(07/23/24) Silk Road Secret Agents: Japanese Ambient Imports

Silk Road Secret Agents is Discotchari’s monthly debriefing of music that highlights the fusion of musical movements around the world and throughout the ages with ethnic identities rooted in the diverse Silk Road region. We also dive deep into the history of artists whose life stories and music evoke dramatic cinema fit for Tarantino, Kiarostami, Wong Kar-Wai, Youssef Chahine and other legendary directors. These artists often times relied on their musical talent to navigate complex social structures, unite people from different backgrounds, and preserve their ethnic roots by reimagining them in new forms: inspiring the name “Silk Road Secret Agents.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This set is dedicated to contemporary SWANA artists you should know about. Take notes - you just might see these artists at a SRSA rendezvous near you in the future!

TRACKLIST:

Elephant Stone - A Silent Moment
De.Ville - The Love We Lost
De.Ville - Water
Mashrou' Leila - Tayf
Rima Khcheich - Muwashah Salla Fina El Lahtha Hindiyya
Sevana Tchak - Vay Le Le (Msho Aghchik)
Sevana Tchak - Khorodik 
Alsarah and The Nubatones - Wad Alnuba (Captain Planet Remix) 
Alsarah and The Nubatones - Ya Watan
Maryam Saleh - Nouh Al Hamam 
Clarissa Bitar - Nasak
Bedouin Burger - Kheit El Sabah
TootArd - Pretty Woman
TootArd - Open Sesame
THE DEENJES - Utem Kez (Ուտեմ քեզ)
Allah-Las - No Werewolf 
jrimurmur - Averak
Ko Shin Moon - Olou La Emmou (feat. Mouna Hawa)
Ko Shin Moon - Al Ghali Feat. Sara El Rawy
The Bambir - Gzhi Harsaniq (Գժի հարսանիք)
The Bambir - The Witching Hour (Գիշերով)
Arto Tunçboyacıyan - Other Side of the River
Kamarama - 99.99
Hayk Karoi - Mayrum (feat. Susanna Najarian)
TAXI KEBAB - Ttabla
Hagop Tchaparian - Right to Riot
Symptom Error - Pshaqagh (Փշաքաղ)

(08/27/24) Silk Road Secret Agents: Contemporary SWANA Pop

Silk Road Secret Agents is Discotchari‘s monthly debriefing of music that highlights the fusion of musical movements around the world and throughout the ages with ethnic identities rooted in the diverse Silk Road region. We also dive deep into the history of artists whose life stories and music evoke dramatic cinema fit for Tarantino, Kiarostami, Wong Kar-Wai, Youssef Chahine and other legendary directors. These artists often times relied on their musical talent to navigate complex social structures, unite people from different backgrounds, and preserve their ethnic roots by reimagining them in new forms: inspiring the name “Silk Road Secret Agents.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

How to craft the perfect Riviera On The Raks: 2 ounces pineapple-infused gin, ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice, ¾ ounce simple syrup, 1 egg white, orange bitters. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and dry-shake (without ice) for 30 seconds. Add ice and shake to chill. Strain into a cocktail glass and drop orange bitters onto the surface of the meringue. Serve garnished with a mint leaf alongside these delectable song selections from 1970 – 1983 that evoke walking along the boardwalks of the Mediterranean’s most captivating seaside cities.

Tracklist:

Omar Khorshid – Solenzara
Jacques Kodjian – Bent El Shalabiya
Jacques Kodjian – Shu Beyebka Men Errewaye
Claude Ciari – Hommage à Fairuz
Vahé Kalenderian – Pakramian Poghotsoum
Elias Rahbani – Good Night My Love
Munir Bashir – Sam’ri
Alex Menakian – Yes Kezanits Heratsa
Vahe Demirjian – Lina Lina
Ihsan Al Munzer – Come My Love
Vatché Yeramian – Pardineri Bourakoum
Salim Sarwat – Kanoun El Hob
Ziad Rahbani – Ya Mahla Nourha
Ahmed Fouad Hassan – Al Mushrabiya
Unknown Artist – Alhinna
Azar Habib – Kenna Tleti
Hassan Abou Seoud – Borriquito
Nicolas El Dick – Salama Ya Salama
Mike Hegazi – Far Away
Omar Khorshid – Arabian Melody
Hany Mehanna – Damat Alam
Baligh Hamdi – Salamat
Ammar El Sherei – La Talomny
Ammar El Sherei – El Kamh Ellela
Agop Pakyüz – Ah Im Anuş Yar
Onno Tunçboyaçıyan – Senden Başka
Zafer Dilek – Intizar
Esin Engin – Güller ve Dudaklar
Ahmed Malek – Thème Rythme Léger
Ahmed Malek – La Côte
Abdou El Omari – Alghoroub

(09/24/2024) Silk Road Secret Agents: Riviera On The Raks

Silk Road Secret Agents is Discotchari‘s monthly debriefing of music that highlights the fusion of musical movements around the world and throughout the ages with ethnic identities rooted in the diverse Silk Road region. We also dive deep into the history of artists whose life stories and music evoke dramatic cinema fit for Tarantino, Kiarostami, Wong Kar-Wai, Youssef Chahine and other legendary directors. These artists often times relied on their musical talent to navigate complex social structures, unite people from different backgrounds, and preserve their ethnic roots by reimagining them in new forms: inspiring the name “Silk Road Secret Agents”.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tale of Rising Suns is a one-off sonic journey through the vibrant musical landscapes of East and Southeast Asia, blending genres and eras that capture the rich diversity of the region’s sound. From the haunting enka ballad of Meiko Kaji’s Urami Bushi to the futuristic synth-funk of Rewat ‘Ter’ Buddhinan, the show explores everything from Japanese psych-prog rock to ambient kankyō ongaku, Taiwanese disco-funk, and the ethereal beats of modern electronic producers like Soichi Terada and Rei Harakami. This special broadcast transcends borders and genres, offering a meditative and exhilarating exploration of musical heritage and contemporary innovation, reflecting the cultural tapestries of countries like Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Taiwan, and beyond.

Tracklist:


(10/22/2024) Silk Road Secret Agents: Tale of Rising Suns

Kamo Hovanisyan - Antsir Navak ("Pass, Little Ship") [1980s] / Կամո Հովանիսյան - Անցիր Նավակ

Kamo Hovanisyan - Kantsnen Orer ("The Days Will Go By") [1980s] / Կամո Հովանիսյան - Կամցնեն Օրեր

Kamo Hovanisyan - Kyanqoum Ch'khroves ("Don't Be Upset In Life") [1980s] Կամո Հովանիսյան - Կյանքում Չղ Խռովես

Kamo Hovanisyan - Kanchir Indz ("Call Me") [1980s] / Կամո Հովանիսյան - Կանչիր Ինձ

Kamo Hovanisyan - Terevatap ("Leaffall") [1980s] / Կամո Հովանիսյան - Տերեվաթափ

Kamo Hovanisyan - Mekhagneres ("My Cloves") [1980s] Կամո Հովանիսյան - Մեխակներս

Harouth Bezdjian - Hov Arek ("Weather, Be Cool") / Հարութ Բեզջյան - Հով Արեք [1985]

Harouth Bezdjian - Yes Saren Goukayi ("I Come To The Mountains") / Հարութ Բեզջյան - Ես Սարեն Կուգայի [1985]

Harouth Bezdjian - Alakyaz ("Alagoz Mountain") / Հարութ Բեզջյան - Ալագյազ [1985]

Harouth Bezdjian - Tchinar Es ("You're a Plane Tree") / Հարութ Բեզջյան - Չինար Ես [1985]

Harouth Bezdjian - Gantche Groung ("Call, Crane") / Հարութ Բեզջյան - Կանչէ Կռունկ [1985]

Harouth Bezdjian - Akh Maral Djan Ervoum Em ("Oh My Dear I'm Burning") / Հարութ Բեզջյան Ախ Մարալ Ջան էրվում Եմ [1985]

Available October 17th, 2025 on vinyl and as digital download, Discotchari is delighted to release a first-of-its-kind various artists compilation: Tehrangeles Vice (Iranian Diaspora Pop 1983–1993), fully licensed from Taraneh Enterprises. The album is a groundbreaking exposé of the vibrant subcultural hub of Tehrangeles (portmanteau of Tehran + Los Angeles), and the action–packed, true story of the Iranian diaspora music industry. Featuring 12 tracks remastered by award–winning Osiris Studio, lyrics and translations to all featured songs, original cassette covers, a 20+ page album note booklet by Dr. Farzaneh Hemmasi and more!

Order on Website:
www.discotchari.com

Order on Bandcamp:
www.discotchari.bandcamp.com

Artwork by Natalee Miller
Mastering by Osiris Studio
Manufactured by Vinyl de Paris
Album notes by Dr. Farzaneh Hemmasi
Translations by Amir Zeinali
Compiled by Zachary Asdourian, Anaïs Gyulbudaghyan
Executive produced by Zachary Asdourian
© 2025 Discotchari, under license from © & ℗ Taraneh Enterprises, Inc.

C1 Sattar - Khaak ("[Home] Land")

D3 Hassan Shojaee - Nazi Joon ("Dear Sweetheart")

A2 Shahram Shabpareh, Shohreh Solati - Ghesmat ("Fate")

B1 Aldoush - Vay Az In Del ("Woe To This Heart")

B2 Fataneh - Mola Mamad Jan ("Mullah Mohammad Jan")

D1 Black Cats - Rhythm of Love

A1 Shahrokh - Man Va Tou ("Me and You")

D2 Leila Forouhar - Hamsafar ("Fellow Traveler")

Sokrat Martinyan - Sanam ("Ey Sanam") [1993]

Sokrat Martinyan - Arzoo [1993]

Sokrat Martinyan - Yar Man ("My Friend") [1993]

Sokrat Martinyan - Eshgh ("Love") [1993]

Sokrat Martinyan - Ali Baba [1993]

🌐 Disco 🅧 Քոչարի 🧿

Discotchari (a portmanteau of "disco" and the folk dance "kotchari") is the investigative musical journey of Zachary Asdourian and Anaïs Gyulbudaghyan; together they are pushing the boundaries of Armenian music produced in diaspora outposts and strongholds from Boston to Beirut, Montevideo to Marseilles and Santa Monica Boulevard to Sayat Nova Avenue. Functioning as a record label and performing act, they are passionate about under-exposed dance music born from immigrant communities and cultural waves around the world; their ultimate goal is to ensure Armenian music thrives in the global landscape of "international rare grooves" by supplying soundtracks that sway multicultural audiences and build solidarity through shared appreciation of irresistible songs. Additionally, they host a monthly radio show, promote events at renown local venues, and share physical discoveries on their YouTube and Instagram channels. 

"Silk Road Secret Agents"on @dublab
Sublabel of @chezcritique

Discotchari

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