Album Notes

Sarajevo’s Rock Surprise of the Early 80’s


Young Sarajevo’s group Bonton Baya was the leading music group of this city in the early 80’s, and we could even say that they were the most intellectually educated new wave rock band.
To name, leading the group Nenad Strbac, composer, vocals & guitar, law graduate; bassist Zlatan Cico, electrotechnical graduate; guitarist Niksa Bartos, electrotechnical graduate; drummer Admir Volic, architectural graduate; pianist, keys Damir Mirsirlic, economy graduate.
Right from the beginning, the coming together of the members of this eclectic new wave group created great astonishment and awe in young fans in Sarajevo. So it was this same inspiration which followed, carrying them towards their success. Despite this increased popularity, one recorded album, and several newly composed songs, they never went on to releasing their stuff for sale to the public. Management didn’t make it possible and it was expensive ( the entire record-release-distributing procedure of an album).
This was unbelieveable for their concerts were the most over packed, tickets sold out like crazy for every single one of their shows. They were in great demand; they had reached the beginning steps of stardom. From constant photographing, preparing commercials and advertisement, television and radio appearances, they were becoming a hit for the music culture.
So, what happened to them, why did they stop playing? They disappeared from this intense rock scene. Why, we ask ourselves? They went on with their lives, each taking their separate way and continuing with everyday life as if they were never rock stars, recognized by fans whenever they took a walk down the beautiful streets of old Sarajevo.
Bonton Baya who were they, we still ask ourselves? During an era when the image of music was redefining itself around the world, Bonton Baya became one of the primary founders of a new kind of sound which quickly became an explosive popular style among new and upcoming bands.

Bonton Baya debut album from 1983 is finally restored and remastered and will be available as digital release only on Apple iTunes and other music sites ,exslusively brought to you music fans, after almost 25 years by future house music record label.Thanks to Nenad Strbac,founder of this great new wave band.

All songs written by Nenad Strbac,except song No 12 written by Zlatan Cico.
Album was originally released in 1983 by Diskoton,Sarajevo.
Band members;
Nenad Strbac ; vocals
Zlatan Cico ; bass
Niksa Bartos ; guitars,keyboards,sax....
Damir Misirlic ; keyboards
Admir Volic-Kufi ; drums

Restored and remastered by Nedim Muzur-Dino in Los Angeles,
April-July 2007.
Executive producer ; Nedim Muzur-Dino