Album Notes

NOTE: This album is only available in DIGITAL DOWNLOAD formats such as iTunes, CD Baby MP3, etc. The physical CD is now out of print.

Gor Mkhitarian
Godfather Tom: Music from the Armenian Underground
Pomegranate Music POM CD-1919
Release Date: November 04, 2003

4.5 Stars (out of 5)- All Music Guide

Armenian singer/songwriter Gor Mkhitarian returns to the world music scene with his explosive second album entitled Godfather Tom: Music from the Armenian Underground.

The use of banjos, acoustic/electric guitars, flutes, an African Djembe and harmonicas on Godfather Tom reflects Mkhitarian's quest to diversify and electrify his unique style of New Armenian world indie-pop. Recorded in Armenia during the summer of 2002, Godfather Tom also features Gor's longtime musical collaborator Aaron Stayman on the banjo and guitar. Although Godfather Tom cannot be labeled as an "Armenian Folk" album in the traditional sense, it is distinctly Armenian. Many of Mkhitarian's lyrical themes reflect his experiences growing up in the challenging yet proud ancient country of Armenia. Like Kristi Stassinopoulou (The Secrets of the Rocks) of Greece, Ely Guerra of (Lotofire) of Mexico and Manu Chau (Clandestino) of France, Mkhitarian creates a homeland sound without worrying about being "authentic".

Nominated for 5 music industry awards in 2002, Gor Mkhitarian is the Vanazor, Armenia native who captured the imagination of listeners on his debut album Yeraz, released in 2001. Sporting a sound closely akin to Dave Matthews, Bob Dylan, and Armenian troubadour Rouben Haghverdian, Mkhitarian's sensitive yet unsentimental style of music maintains a populist appeal that made him a favorite amongst ex-pats and young people in Armenia. While New Armenian world indie-pop is starting to catch fire in Armenia, Mkhitarian can be credited for striking the match. - RAFFI MENESHIAN

Godfather Tom: Music from the Armenian Underground has a release date scheduled for November 4, 2003.