Kalemegdan Disk - ROCK FROM EASTERN EUROPE

Croatia Records Release Information

The reissue of the first single / EP by the Zagreb rock band Prljavo Kazalište (Dirty Theatre), “Televizori” (Televisions or TVs) is on sale now in a remastered version. It is a single that marked a turning point not only for the band, but also for the entire Yugoslavian music scene, especially within the punk genre to which they belonged in their early days.

This first single “Televizori”, consisting of three songs: “Televizori”(Televisions), “Majka” (Mother) and “Moje djetinjstvo” (My Childhood), represents one of the most important releases in the early years of Prljavo Kazalište. The single was produced by Vedran Božić, known for his work with many prominent rock artists. Under his leadership, Prljavo Kazalište managed to retain their raw energy, but also to polish their sound. All band members are signed as songwriters, which proves their collective contribution and the unique chemistry that was key to their success. This single features Davorin Bogović (vocals), Zoran Cvetković (guitar), Jasenko Houra (rhythm guitar and backing vocals), Ninoslav Hrastek (bass guitar) and Tihomir Fileš (drums).

The remastering of “Televizori” was done by Goran Martinac, and the lacquer cut by Grammy-awarded mastering engineer Sean Magee in the legendary Abbey Road Studios. The cover of the reissue was taken care of by the original designers – Bachrach & Krištofić, and in the new visual design, additional photos from the then session for the album cover were implemented, as well as a text by Jure Ilić that takes the readers back to that time and into the heads of the band members at that time. The release comes with a download card for downloading this EP.

“And it’s not just any record! The song “Televizori” is considered to be one of the most significant works by Prljavi Kazalište in terms of quality, clearly recognising their (or rather Jasenko Houra’s) later authorial style. Thus, Prljavo Kazalište overtook other punk “seasoned” musicians and became the first punk champions in the Yugoslavian discography (until Pankrti (The Bastards) from Ljubljana got popular a bit later),” said Jurica Ilić.

The single “Televizori” certainly remains one of the most important releases in the history of Yugoslavian rock music. Its three powerful tracks clearly demonstrate the band’s talent and vision, and their influence is still felt today. Prljavo Kazalište thus cemented their status as one of the pioneers of punk rock in Yugoslavia, while leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.

This band, founded in 1977 in the Dubrava district of Zagreb, quickly became synonymous with punk rock in the former Yugoslavia. The band was formed by childhood friends, and their raw sound and energetic performances quickly attracted the attention of young music lovers. This single was not only commercially successful but also critically acclaimed, laying the foundation for Prljavo Kazalište’s future career. Their ability to combine their punk energy with great lyrics certainly set them apart from many other bands of the time.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Televizori 3:10
2. Majka 2:16

Side B

1. Moje djetinjstvo 2:30