“Žalio Vario XX” 20th Anniversary Album
The year 2004 became the beginning of a new flight for “Žalvarinis” – it was not only the recording of the second album, but also the opening of a completely new creative era. The band tackled their vision with such passion that each record turned into not only sounds, but also a powerful avalanche of emotions that every listener could experience. This stage of creation is like an immersion into the magical depths of Lithuanian folklore, where the old voices of the past are reborn in a modern sound, enriched with deep philosophy, feelings and musical expressiveness. Every note was felt, every sound is like a separate picture, where myths, traditions and the courage to create in the context of contemporary music merge. The process of creating the “Žalio Vario” album also became a kind of ritual, where the souls of the band members merged, their aspiration to rediscover the Lithuanian spirit and invite the listeners to a journey where both the past and the present pulsate. In 2004, the leader of “Žalvarinis” Robertas Semeniukas started the stage of creating a new album. It was a period when music became a unique bridge between the past and the present, subtly combining the depth of conventional music with elements of modern rock music. This creative process required special concentration, sensitivity to detail and sincere dedication. The carefully thought-out melody and subtle arrangement were intended to embody the spirit of collective creativity, although created by the hands of one person. The path of creating the album reflected the desire to open new musical spaces, where authenticity and innovation merge, gently intertwining tradition with modernity. This work became a musical gift from “Žalvarinis”, inviting listeners on a journey where the roots of Lithuanian music are reborn and enriched. The recordings of the new songs began as a real musical adventure – without clear financing, without guarantees of who would release the album, who would pay for the recordings, and with great faith in fate. It was a period full of uncertainty, improvisation and the spirit of rock and roll, when not only sounds but also constant bohemian chaos boiled in the studio. Despite financial difficulties, the band devoted themselves wholeheartedly to every moment of the recording session. The recording studio team, who believed in the creative power of “Žalvarinis”, became an indispensable support, helping the group not only with the recordings, but also later in finding a publishing company. It was a period full of challenges and faith, when every sound sounded like proof that music can overcome any barriers. The end of this stage in the spring of 2005 marked not only the birth of the album, but also a common victory for the entire team, which united their music, creativity and determination to overcome all obstacles. At the end of May 2005, when the album “Žalio Vario” finally saw the light of day, the band “Žalvarinis” found themselves at the peak of real recognition and inspiration. The album was released in CD format by the then-biggest record company “Prior Musica”, which helped the band to gain wider recognition, and the success of the album soon turned “Žalvarinis” into one of the most prominent names in alternative music in Lithuania. The listeners were captivated by the unique combination of modern sound and Lithuanian folklore, and it became a real musical phenomenon – the songs were played on radio stations, on television, and on festival stages, where the band successfully won the hearts of the audience. During that time, “Žalvarinis” held numerous performances throughout Lithuania and beyond, and one of the highlights of that period was the filming of the video clip “Alaus, alaus” in Riga. This song, distinguished by its energy and catchy rhythm, quickly became one of the favorites among fans. The group appeared many times on the Lithuanian national television show “Lietuvos Dainų dešimtukas”, won the Discovery of the Year award, and also filmed an “Unplugged” concert with invited guests at the LRT large studio, in 2005 they became “Best Folk Rock Group of the Year”, and in 2006 they became “Best Ethno Group of the Year” at the Alternative Music Awards. This was the golden age of “Žalvarinis”, when their music inspired the youth, spreading a festive spirit of freedom and self-expression. The album became a major source of inspiration for many young musicians, and soon new bands began to form in Lithuania, striving to create in a similar style, some even playing Žalvarinis songs as covers. The success of “Žalios Vario” turned “Žalvarinis” into a cultural phenomenon that not only expanded the possibilities of Lithuanian music, but also laid the foundations for a new wave of alternative folklore in the country. This album and period established “Žalvarinis” music as a vivid example that Lithuanian tradition can live in modern music and be a source of inspiration for future generations. Twenty years after the success of the album “Žalios Vario”, only seven song soundtracks remained in the archives – a fragile relic from the golden age of “Žalvarinis”. We brought these recordings to a second life, re-mixed them and performed modern mastering so that the sound would reflect today’s quality standards, but would not lose its original spirit. One song – “Užugdė Užugdė” – was completely rewritten with the current band members, but this was done with extreme care and respect for the original. In order to maintain authenticity and the atmosphere of that period, the band leader chose not to re-arrange the song. Every rhythm, chord, and melodic curve was preserved so that the same inspiration that once attracted fans and encouraged creation remains. It was a meticulous process reminiscent of the work of a restorer – delicately and responsibly recreating the original, preserving everything that was unique about it. This anniversary album is a tribute to the listeners, where Lithuanian folk merges with the energy of rock, and each song is filled with the power of guitars and creative freedom. Each song is like a musical poem, revealing the unique, deep and rebellious approach of “Žalvarinis” to creativity, as if inviting you to embark on a reckless adventure together. Let this album inspire you again, resonate in your hearts and bring fire – just like when “Žalvarinis” strongly touched the Lithuanian scene with his unbridled spirit!
All songs were recorded in September – December 2004, at the „Aurea” recording studio in Vilnius.
Recorded by sound director Laura Jurgelionytė and sound engineer Valdemaras Kiršys.
Except for the song „Užugdė Užugdė” was recorded at „1o7 Studio” in Vilnius in April-May 2024. Recorded by sound engineer Germanas Skoris.
All Songs were mixed and mastered by Gints Lundbergs.
All Music is composed, arranged & produced by Robertas Semeniukas
Cover Artwork by Martynas Ivinskas
Layout Design by Tomas Mozūra
