The third album from the Czech traditional/medieval music ensemble Gothart marks an important turn. Previously exclusively focused on Czech folk, the group widened its horizons to encompass gypsy, Bulgarian, and Sephardic traditional music. The result is nothing short of stunning, as it unveils an impressive range of talents within the group. The Bulgarian song "Oj Nedo, Nedo," performed with gillerns and violins, has French accents recalling the pioneering work of Malicorne in the '70s. And then comes "La Rosa Enflorence," a beautiful Sephardic song sung by the three female members of the group, harmonizing like native women who had been doing it for 40 years. This variety in styles is held together by the energy the group puts in its renditions and the stable instrumentation. The gillern (a medieval guitar/mandolin), pipe/flute, two fiddles, and percussion form a surprisingly ample sound, beautifully complemented by the double bass of guest Karel Zich. Each track is a delight, but the heartbreaking Bulgarian ballad "Jovano, Jovanke" stands as a highlight. Each song is interpreted in its language of origin, and the booklet offers translations in Czech and English. A great selection of songs, superior musicianship, beautiful voices, and a communicative pleasure to play: Adio Querida is a must-have for anyone interested in East European folk and worth any effort and dollar you may have to invest in order to locate this Czech release. ~ François Couture