Daniela Belcheva’s New Album “Naive”: A Fresh Take on Jazz and Folk from Bulgaria

Daniela Belcheva, an emerging voice in the world of jazz and folk, is set to release her highly anticipated album “Naive” on 30 August 2024. Born in Varna, Bulgaria, Belcheva has made a name for herself as a singer-songwriter, jazz musician, producer, and stage performer, captivating audiences with her delicate voice and moving lyrics. Since her debut in 2020, her music has resonated with listeners both in Bulgaria and abroad, solidifying her place as a unique and soulful artist.

A Journey Through Music

Belcheva’s journey into the music world began early. She grew up singing in classical and Orthodox choirs, where her love for music was nurtured and refined. Even as a young girl, she felt an urge to express herself through songwriting. Her career took a significant turn in 2020 during the pandemic. After nearly two decades of collaborating with various bands, she found the time and space to let her inner voice shine, resulting in her first album, Acoustic Me. Influenced by the likes of Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Eva Cassidy, Belcheva’s music blends jazz-pop and country-folk, offering listeners a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions. Her lyrics are known for their depth and meaning, striking a chord with those who appreciate the artistry of songwriting.

Collaborations and Performances

Belcheva’s path has been marked by collaborations with some of Bulgaria’s most renowned musicians. Her second EP, Silver Button (2022), was recorded with Milen Kukosharov on piano and keys, Mihail Ivanov on double bass, and Dimitar Semov on drums. This quartet has performed at some of the most significant jazz festivals and venues in Bulgaria, including A to jazZ Festival, Plovdiv Jazz Summer, and the Concert Hall of Bulgarian National Radio. Their performances have been praised for their elegance and emotional depth, creating an atmosphere that feels both modern and nostalgic.

“emotional lyrics and her remarkable voice are elegantly mixed into a sound that brings sensations of something modern and something nostalgic at the same time. Her music makes an atmosphere where you want to stay a bit longer.”

Zlatkov of the Bulgarian Music Association described Belcheva’s music as

“elegant and beautiful sound that speaks directly to the listeners.”

Similarly, Jazz FM Radio Bulgaria has highlighted her

About the Collaborators

Milen Kukosharov is a Bulgarian jazz pianist, composer, and arranger known for his exceptional improvisations and dedication to his craft. He has worked with many of Bulgaria‘s leading jazz and pop artists and has orchestrated music for various orchestras and ensembles, including the Symphony Orchestra of Bulgarian National Radio. Kukosharov also leads his own projects, featuring original compositions that blend classical and jazz influences.

Mihail Ivanov is a versatile Bulgarian bassist celebrated for his diverse style and experimental compositions. After studying at Sofia’s Music School and the Music Academy in Amsterdam, Ivanov recorded and toured with various international projects, including world music ensembles. He has also served as the leader of the bass department at a music school in Mumbai. Since 2020, Ivanov has been leading Noise Linguistix, a band that performs contemporary original jazz compositions.

Dimitar Semov is a Bulgarian jazz drummer and session musician known for his unique drum setups and versatility across different styles. He has been involved in numerous projects, ranging from jazz to electronic music, traditional ensembles, and orchestras. Semov has also toured with the renowned vocal ensemble Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares.

Looking Ahead

With the release of Naive, Daniela Belcheva continues to evolve as an artist, exploring new sonic landscapes and sharing her unique perspective through music. This album promises to further establish her as a force in the independent jazz and folk scenes, captivating listeners with her heartfelt storytelling and exquisite musicality. As she continues her journey, Belcheva remains committed to creating music that speaks to the soul, blending tradition with innovation and forging a path that is distinctly her own.