CRNA DAMA [AKA: BLACK LADY]

Last time I listened to this album was in early 1980s when I was in my teens and believe it or not it was extremely popular in the time of its release. Actually it broke into the mainstream rock scene and radio, with three songs as major hits: "Crna dama", "Alo" (one of best forrays into scat singing of the era) and "Daire", while the album sold quite well. Then, in 1977 SMAK was really among the top ex-Yugoslavian bands, but for a long time I thought it overrated and being just enough lucky to catch the moment of trend while BIJELO DUGME was in hiatus and LEB I SOL just started their career. Listening again today I must be objective and state that in my opinion this is very close to a masterpiece. Everything here runs smoothly, production is excellent and musicianship superb. Two instrumental pieces "Domaci zadatak" and "Tegoba" are wonderful, with stress on piano, synth and strong melodic bass, with guitar just in place where necessary. Of two ballads one was excellent, "Plava pesma", while the other "Stvar ljubavi" is slightly dull for me. Nevermind this is a gem and a rare instance of commercially successful jazz rock fusion in ex-Yugo. It is recommended listening to all prog fans. This was issued in English version the following year for the Western market, under the title "Black Lady".