Googoosh

Mention Googoosh to any Iranian and they will no doubt describe her as one or more of the following: a style icon, diva, actress or the leading name in Iranian pop music. She is quite simply a symbol of national pride. Her longstanding catalogue of classic songs is recognisable by the older and younger generations alike. This first Googoosh release by Finders Keepers is a collection of some of her well-known yet lost tracks from an era preceding the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Although most of this album is made up of catchy pop songs, there are also noticeable influences from other genres, such as disco on Nimeyeh Gomshodeyeh Man’ and bossa nova on Gharibe Ashena’. The success of the funky ‘Talagh’ led to its use as a theme tune for a popular Iranian TV show in the 70s. The instrument arrangement across the album is exceptional, featuring flute, saxophone and percussion as well as a consistent display of gorgeously orchestrated strings. Googoosh's voice stands out most of all – she has a warm, seductive tone, which is used to great effect on each contrasting track, be it on the upbeat ‘Bemoun ta Bemounam’ or the melancholy ‘Mano Gonjishkaye Khooneh’. She was, and still is, an engaging performer: video clips from music TV programmes of the time can be seen on YouTube, showing performances of tracks from this album.

This is a strong introduction for those new to the legendary Googoosh, as it showcases music from the golden era of Persian pop by an artist who is unrivalled to this day.