The term “Arbëresh” refers to those Albanians who emigrated to southern Italy in several waves of refugees during the Middle Ages; their language is called “Arbëreshë”. Today, their descendants live as a recognized minority in a few villages, mainly in Calabria and Sicily. In their songs, various regional influences merge to form a fascinating, emotional and passionate musical language. Ku vate moti is a widely known and very popular love song also in Albania; its rousing refrain Lule lule turns up in other folk songs as well. The recitative-like, plaintive verse section provides an exciting contrast to the fast-paced, ever-intensifying refrain. In his lively a cappella arrangement, Michael Aschauer makes this highly impressive song accessible to choirs and vocal ensembles while at the same time preserving its very special characteristics.
