There were talented and creative individuals in the half-light of the underground music scene of Split in the 90’s. A statement supported by the group Zidar Betonsky which released a reissue of the album "I gledam i sanjam i ne dam" out this week. The LP consists of material recorded during the first year of this industrial electro punk band which at the time worked as a trio - Hrvoje Pelicarić, Zdeslav Kukoč i Eduard Raos.

Three decades since the songs were recorded in guerilla style DIY conditions in Split and Ilirska Bistrica, the songs still sound fresh, retaining a recognizable charm and persuasive power. We can only add that in the context of post punk revival and harsher sound overcoming the world which is falling apart in front of our eyes - Zidar Betonsky comes as a sanctuary for the unpredictable and growingly anxious everyday life.

For the vinyl edition the songs on "I gledam i sanjam i ne dam" were meticulously restored sonically by Višeslav Laboš and Ivan Jakić. It comes with two bonus tracks - covers of Bauhaus and Pink Floyd which are not available on streaming services. The sound of Zidar Betonsky, as it is described by Mihovilović, blends cold wave and goth rock of the 80’s with bitterness and darkness of Split in the 90’s. What we have here is an important document of Croatian music history and better yet - since the group ended their quarter of a century hiatus - it is also a foundation for the future. Both the band and the scene.

"I gledam i sanjam i ne dam" is a collaborative release of several labels: Geenger Records, Guranje s litice, Dare the Divine, Slušaj najglasnije! & Debila Records and a part of the Tajni Split media project.

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