Founded in 1996 by Levent Akman, Murat Ertel, and Emre Onel, BaBa ZuLa is a Turkish musical group that, with its original melodies, rhythms, and lyrics, captures the mesmerizing fusion of traditional Turkish music, folk music traditions, and electronic music. The group has referred to their unique style as 'Cosmic Road Music,' an amalgamation that takes listeners on an unparalleled sonic journey.
BaBa ZuLa's creative process is deeply rooted in improvisation, combining original melodies, rhythms, and lyrics to form an eclectic mix of sounds that transcends genres. The band's performances are equally dynamic, incorporating colourful costumes and theatrical elements that mirror the vibrant energy of their music.
BaBa ZuLa's distinct style is characterized by its simplicity and minimalism. According to Ertel, this shift from Zen's Western and rock-influenced music was a conscious decision to embrace a sound more open to improvisation and closer to the traditional forms of Turkish folk music. The result is an ensemble that encapsulates the rich heritage of Turkish music while pushing its boundaries through improvisation and a song-focused approach.
Influenced by Alevi and Bektashi mysticism - both prominent belief systems in Anatolia, BaBa ZuLa integrates these philosophies into their music, infusing it with a universal musical consciousness imbued with Anatolian thought.
Since their formation, BaBa ZuLa has performed at various music festivals around the world, including Roskilde Festival, Printemps de Bourges, and Şimdi/Now Festival. In addition, their music was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary 'Crossing The Bridge – The Sound of Istanbul,' directed by Fatih Akın.
What sets BaBa ZuLa apart is their ability to skillfully navigate the delicate balance between honoring the traditional roots of Turkish music and pushing its boundaries with their innovative approach. This delicate equilibrium results in a musical experience that feels both timeless and cutting-edge, appealing to audiences from different cultural backgrounds and musical preferences.
With a unique blend of traditional Turkish music, electronic influences, and a dash of the cosmic, BaBa ZuLa continues to captivate audiences worldwide, placing them as one of the most intriguing bands on the Turkish music scene.