Voice of Engin's FriendsⒸ
Secret Story. I have owned it on four continents, multiple countries and traveled with it every single time since it was published. I remember buying the concert ticket to see this tour when the album was released. There, sitting on a blanket under the cool night’s stars, the entire crowd joined in unison by the magnificent artistry of Mr. Metheny and his 27-string guitar –became one. This is what you have done Engin Bey, except it’s not a crowd full of music enthusiasts – it’s people from every corner of the world, transcending borders, united by you.
Secret Story, is a collection of music by one of the most diverse musicians I have ever known. Rightfully recognized, Pat Metheny has won 20 Grammy awards, all in 12 different categories. I would love for you, Engin Akyürek, to experience this ethereal yet eclectic album composed collaboratively with numerous orchestral ensembles, despite being pegged as a contemporary Jazz album. It is SO much more than that.
The opening features a Cambodian spiritual song that is hauntingly beautiful and I cannot count the number of times it has instantly, almost on cue, launched me into a mode of calm, peaceful centeredness that I needed at that very moment. I have rollerbladed for teens of miles along the coasts of the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, every one of the Great Lakes in Michigan. This musical journey has even traveled with me to Europe. Listening to every track as intended, in its proper order is the most enjoyable form, in my opinion. One time, I drove the entire infamous Route 66 and passed through Metheny’s hometown – Lee’s Summit, Missouri. We stopped and took photos in front of the roadway sign, in typical “album covers fashion”.
I have turned to Secret Story over lost relationships, happy moments, times of severe grief or just when I needed a solitary breath of reflection. Sometimes, this album is for none of that – rather just to clear thoughts, breathe and meditate. To the many friends of Engin Akyürek reading this, it will resonate with you because we often turn to Engin Bey in times of happiness, grief, momentary solitude – or just to breathe easy and “reset” with a smile.