The albums “Đe većije / For Eternity” and “Vionera Paunović & Balkanski Istočnici” represent a contemporary approach to cultivating the Vlach musical tradition of northeastern Serbia. At a time when, as Dr. Dimitrije O. Golemović observes, “traditional folk music is increasingly disappearing from folk practice,” these projects demonstrate that heritage can be both preserved and creatively revitalized. While grounded in traditional forms, the albums transform them into newly composed “folk-like songs” (pesme na narodnu) as well as instrumental pieces inspired by folkloric models. The interpretations of Vionera Paunović, recipient of the RTS award “Guardian of Folk Heritage” (2013), are marked by stylistic authenticity and a strong sense of the melodic line characteristic of Vlach singing. Although composed, these songs “sound just like authentic folk songs,” as Golemović emphasizes, a quality further reinforced by the lyrics of Bora Ilić Vratnjanac. The instrumental foundation is provided by the ensemble Balkanski Istočnici, founded by Mile Paunović. Alongside trumpet and accordion, the rich sonic palette includes pan flute, bagpipes, kaval, Balkan flute (svirala), and saxophone, while studio refinement by Milun Ivašković lends the recordings a contemporary and accessible character. Stylistically diverse, the repertoire ranges from pieces strongly inspired by Vlach folklore to compositions that subtly venture into popular and jazz idioms, confirming the vitality and adaptability of this tradition within a modern musical context.

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