Nani Noam Vazana is one of the only artists in the world that write & compose new songs in the endangered Ladino language. In her new album “Ke Haber” (which means “What’s New” in Ladino) she captures the spirit of the ancient, matriarchal language and culture and propels it into the 21st century with socially pertinent lyrics, celebrating migration, gender and female empowerment. 

The soundscape bridges over tradition and modern life, capturing the sounds and smells of the marketplace and fuses them with raw, flamenco like vocals and surprising instrumentations. Soft choral-like trombones embellish mariachi guitars & percussion with glimpses of piano & cello tracks, make this record a magical realistic mosaic. 

Nani unveils a piece of history we don’t easily find in other mythology & anthropology. She wrote & composed this song about a Sephardic alternative passing-away ceremony. When you reach golden years (it’s usually on a round birthday like 70 or 80), you throw a big party. You treat your family and friends to food and booze and then, you invite them to sow around you the shroud of the dead. 

It takes about 2 hours to make and during this cocooned state, you’re suppose to meditate and think about all the things you want to leave behind in this world. When the cloth is done, it goes into the cupboard, symbolising all these things you want to break free of. You are then reborn, free from worries and cares, and can continue your life in a better way. This is why Nani named the song Una Segunda Piel, which means ‘A Second Skin’.