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Arrecifes, Argentina.  “When we started to think of a name for this our fourth Basque son, we immediately thought of something to do with pilgrimages, with walking; in short, something to do with a traveler.  After discussing it we came up with “Herriz herri,” that describes what we wanted to express: “moving from town to town.”  We thought it was perfect since that what we always do, move between here and Euskal Herria,” explained Mariana Dominé Irigoyen, the voice of Maral.  “We also thought it would be easy to remember, especially for those who follow us but who aren’t from the Basque community,” she added.

Continuing along the same lines, “Herriz herri” consists of ten songs that propose “a walk through the Basque popular songbook with the rhythmic beat of Argentina.”  Among the songs chosen for this new work are well known one such as: “Euskal Herrian Euskaraz” or “Xalbadorren heriotzean” including the classic “Aitormena,” by Hertzainak, made reggae.

[Maral’s version of “Aitormena”]

“As always, the generator of these new productions is the audience, with whose applause or kind words assures us in what we do, and inspires us to do new things,” explained Dominé.  “Our relationship with people grows closer every year; proof of that happened at “Buenos Aires celebrates the Basque Country,” where the audience was very excited and effectuate towards us.  Or again at the benefit concert for Euskaltzaleak that we gave at the Iparraldeko Euskal Etxea where we experienced some exquisite moments.  Making Basque music is truly satisfying,” the singer emphasized.

[Inside cover of the “Herriz herri” album]

The cover art is special and also reflects the contents of the CD and the spirit of Maral.  “The design was done by Juan Manuel Vasquez Echaniz.  We only gave him the name, and invited him to create it on his own.  It was modeled on what the name would suggest…and he did an impeccable job with great sensitivity,” said band members.

The band is made up of Mariana Dominé Irigoyen (vocals), Christian Rodriguez (drums, percussion, txalaparta), Charly Oviedo (keyboard and vocals), Billy Vogt (guitars, vocals), Alexis Valeria (electric guitar and vocals), German Battelini (bass) and Maria Eugneia Cozza (vocals).  Maral will present “Herris herri” day after tomorrow at the El Circulo Theater in Rosario.  Again, the Basque-Argentinean group will perform for fans from all over the country, coming together for the National Basque Week.  The event is on Friday October 26 at 19:30 as part of an artistic evening that will also include performances by the chamber choir Camerata de la Luna from the Villa Mercedes Basque club, and singers Urko, Naia Robles and Natxo Knörr, as well as dances by Itxartu Dantza Taldea.  “Herriz herri” will also be available for purchase all week long for $40.