SKRUK, Moskva Balalaika Quartet, Torunn Sævik & Geirr Lystrup // Stjerna fra Øst // CD

"Star of the East", subtitled "Jomfru Maja på taigaen", Virgin Mary in the taiga, is an exciting brand new Christmas record with 18 original Christmas songs based on Russian folk music. The dulcet melodies are warmly romantic, while the lyrics, written by Geirr Lystrup are inspired by the Christmas gospel, old folk tales and legends of Mary mother of Jesus. "Star of the East" is a wonderful Christmas record, with SKRUK providing a beautiful choral backdrop. The music of the Moscow Balalaika Quartet, led by virtuoso Alexander Gorbatsjov, comes right from the very soul of the Russian people. Soloists are Geirr Lystrup and SKRUK's own Torunn Sævik. We are confident that many of these songs will win a cherished place in the Norwegian Christmas song repertoire.

The ensemble will be going on a Christmas tour, and a book of the entire narrative will be published by Verbum. The producer is Erik Hillestad, and the record is a product of the cooperation between KKV and Geirr Lystrup's record company Juni.

Track list:

1. Jomfru Majas vår                                            2:50

2. Kvifor meg?                                                       3:10

3. Majas vinterbån                                              3:30

4. Mor Maria Møy                                                3:55

5. Underbare natt                                                2:00

6. Sov no Maja mor                                             3:33

7. Tre små kongar                                                3:25

8. Majas blomeseng                                            2:45

9. Himmel-Onge                                                  2:55

10. Jomfru Majas under                                      2:35

11. Gje av hjartet                                                  3:24

12. Dans Jomfru Maja                                         2:28

13. Jomfru Majas Bryst                                       3:00

14. Josef syng                                                     4:29

15. Edderkopp edderkopp                                  2:18

16. Den tåra                                                         3:40

17. Frå Himlen kom ein engel                              4:12