ODIS: Vinila Platē Izdots Gaidītais Ieraksts

A long-awaited collection of music from the Latvian electro-funk, R&B, and soul group “ODIS” was presented yesterday at the jazz club “M/Darbnīca,” with special guests singer Daumants Kalniņš and the group “The Jokers.” The release marks the first time these songs have been compiled on vinyl.

Rediscovering a Lost Sound

The vinyl record features ten songs recorded in 1987 and 1988 by the Ogres Dārzkopības izmēģinājumu stacija (ODIS) vocal-instrumental ensemble. The project was nurtured for two years by Mareks Ameriks and Kalvis Bormanis. According to Jersika Records head Mareks Ameriks, the music “sounds fresh enough and could be a pleasant discovery for younger generations of music lovers.”

Arnis Mednis, the vocalist for “ODIS,” described the energy of the group at the time, stating, “I had so much energy that I could supply a small village with electricity.” He characterized “ODIS” as “an attempt to graft a pineapple onto a bramble bush,” emphasizing the group’s unique and experimental approach.

A Refuge in Music

Mednis explained that during the Brezhnev era, the group found “spiritual refuge” in their music. He recalled daily commutes to Ogresgala, often sharing train cars with the folk ensemble “Jumprava.” He also cited the Daugavpils collective “Elpa” as musical peers.

Kalvis Bormanis, vocalist for the group “Rīgas modes,” expressed his joy and upliftment when listening to the music, calling it “music for joyful moments.” Bormanis’s connection to “ODIS” runs deep, as his mother socialized with the band members in her youth, and his brother was classmates with Arnis Mednis’s daughter.

Dāvis Kaņepe, who recalls seeing “ODIS” perform at the annual “Mikrofona” polls, remembers them as pioneers of “groovy funk” in Latvian music, describing their performances as associated with dancing and disco. He suggests that contemporary DJs incorporate “ODIS” songs into their sets, noting their potential to add a unique flavor for those familiar with Latvian music.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of music does ODIS play?

ODIS plays electro-funk, R&B, and soul music.

When were the songs on the vinyl record originally recorded?

The songs were recorded in 1987 and 1988.

Where was the vinyl record presented?

The vinyl record was presented at the jazz club “M/Darbnīca.”

Will this renewed interest in “ODIS” inspire other artists to revisit and re-release music from this era, potentially uncovering more hidden gems of Latvian musical history?