Label: Independent
Ian Maksin, a cellist, composer, arranger, and vocalist, is a linguistic marvel, currently singing in 42 different languages. His unique ability to traverse linguistic boundaries has captivated audiences worldwide for over a decade, with more than 150 concerts per year on all continents, including numerous free concerts for schoolchildren in various countries.
The
title track Lullaby for the World begins, and you hear a cello as the
lead instrument. That is quite unusual for my listening experiences, so I did
not know what to expect.
The instrumentation is not just excellent, but it also carries a surprising amount of rhythm, which was an unexpected pleasure. This is one of four instrumentals you will hear on this recording. All the other tracks, each in a different language, are infused with a deep emotional expressiveness that is sure to move you.
“As Ari I’m Sokhag” begins with Ian singing in Armenian, you immediately recognize his passion and reverence for the track’s meaning. It is “Come, My Nightingale” in English. So, with that in mind, you can place the track in the proper context of a love song. As you hear the instrumentation and the “wanting” sound of the cello, it all becomes clearer, painting the appropriate scenery.
As you peruse the track selections, you realize that this is a literal musical journey around the world, showcasing the technical prowess of this talented man. His voice, akin to that of an opera singer, is a testament to his vocal skill, and it is very pronounced and evident.
“Oi, khodyt’ son kolo vikon” is vocalized in Ukrainian, meaning “Dream Passes by the Windows.” Considering what that country has been going through over the last several years, it certainly seems appropriate. You can hear the expressiveness and ultimately a sadness in Ian’s voice as the cello accompanies his vocals with a resonant tone that matches his inflections.
“Esimde” in Kyrgyz translates to “I Remember.” At this point, it’s evident that the project’s formula serves as a stage for the artist, resembling an opera infused with drama and emotion throughout. The way he sings and plays the cello is unique, and the combination is stunning.
“Nani Nani (Sephardic/ Ladin)” asks the question “Who’s Who?” and sounds Middle Eastern, with the vocals and accompanying cello accentuating that atmosphere; however, its roots are far from that. From what I gleaned, it’s Judaeo-Spanish, also known as Ladino, Judezmo, or Spaniolit, a Romance language derived from Old Castilian Spanish. And if you listen to the music and lyrics, it certainly sounds like a call out to another person of significance.
“Diarabi (Instrumental)” is “Beloved,” and so another tale unfolds, and a call to another takes shape through instrumentation alone this time. The cello is the perfect instrument, setting a tone and texture that are emotive and expressive, unlike any other stringed instrument. This is clearly stated here.
“Lalaee (Persian)” is “Lullaby,” which circles back to the album title. This ancient land of Persia conjures visions of vast deserts and the world’s hub thousands of years ago, where people traveled for trade and knowledge. The atmosphere feels real and not imagined.
“Nini Sine, Spavaj Sine (Bosnian)” means “Nina son, sleep son.” This track maintains the lullaby’s context nicely, with its drone-like cello notes below rhythmic, vivid vocals. I find the similarities in the vocal intonations amazing across all the different languages. In the same instance, Ian has a firm grasp of how to present each song differently.
“Nuku Nuku (Finnish)” translates to “Doll Doll.” I noticed a significant change in the presentation here, where Ian uses tongue-rolling in this short dance at 2:21.
“Pavane (Instrumental)” is a slow processional dance typical in Europe during the 16th century. To get that reach back hundreds of years requires knowledge not only of a culture specific to the area, but also of the roots of classical music. It is very colorful, full of rhythm, and flows quite beautifully, with exquisite cello playing.
“Toryanse (Japanese)” translates to “let me pass” or “please pass through.” This is an outreach, a request respectfully to move forward from where you are. I think this could be one of the more difficult languages to learn, not only to speak, but also to sing. Ian has no mask in any of these songs; he steps in, bearing soul, and does so with such grace and perfection. The feeling of calling out is captured here.
“Jhoola Jhoole Re Nandlal (Hindi)” means “Swing, swing, Nandlal.” I am not sure how the word swing comes into play here or in what context. I do, however, recognize how it sounds a bit like jazz in a traditional dance, perhaps. I may be way off on that assessment; however, that is what it feels like.
“Isabeau s’y promène” (French) means “Isabeau walks there.” I do see and feel that the rhythm here and the phrasing are exceptional; along with the cello’s deep tones and Ian’s magnificent voice, it comes alive with the proper energy. Once again, the tongue-rolling is used for more emphasis and sounds very French.
“Into the Night (Instrumental)” closes out this fascinating musical and vocal journey. It starts with a well-paced rhythm as the cello enters, all its color and emotion, evoking a landscape of change and movement from light to dark. A transition we all go through every day. This is a perfect ending to so much passion, emotion, and color intersecting in the music after hearing all the different languages accompanied by the cello. The music says it all without words.
Ian Maskin’s Lullaby For The World is a fascinating listen and a significant musical achievement. The selection of compositions and all the languages covered is impressive. For me, it was a learning experience translating various languages and then hearing how they were expressed within the chosen dialect. This was so different in so many ways, and it captured my interest and imagination without fail in every track.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-NAMR Review Founder
November
13, 2025
Tracks:
01. Lullaby for the World (Instrumental)
02. Ari Im Sokhag (Armenian)
03. Oi, khodyt’ son kolo vikon (Ukrainian)
04. Esimde (Kyrgyz)
05. Nani Nani (Sephardic/ Ladino)
06. Diarabi (Instrumental)
07. Lalaee (Persian)
08. Nini Sine, Spavaj Sine (Bosnian)
09. Nuku Nuku (Finnish)
10. Pavane (Instrumental)
11. Toryanse (Japanese)
12. Jhoola Jhoole Re Nandlal (Hindi)
13. Isabeau s’y promène (French)
14. Into the Night (Instrumental)
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