Doina

Listen to Paula Turcas, the lead singer of ZMEI3, in an exclusive conversation with Nicki Paxman on the BBC World Service.

BBC World Service interview with ZMEI3's singer Paula Turcas

ZMEI3 (pronounced zmay-tray) is the band of Romanian immigrants whose beautiful and heartfelt music rises from the harsh realities and struggles of a post-Communist rule.

Their debut album Rough Romanian Soul was recorded in august 2015, live without overdubs in Transylvania, by the Grammy® award-winner Ian Brennan.

The powerhouse voice of ZMEI3 is Paula Turcas, a soprano opera singer who gave up classical music in the pursuit of a more truthful artistry grounded in the struggles of everyday life. The founder of the band is guitarist Mihai Victor Iliescu, who created the Rough Romanian Soul concept and style. Their sound is made all the more unique by featuring vibraphone virtuoso, Oli Bott, for their lead instrument.
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​The band’s name is inspired by an ancient Romanian anti-hero, misfit dragon – a rebellious figure, who rarely prevails, but remains committed to his ideals.

ZMEI3

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