Oliver’s discography spans nearly five decades with a style that blends traditional klapa melodies of Dalmatia, pop rock, folk, and jazz motifs wrapped up in a modern production. It was difficult choosing where to begin with such an iconic discography, but in the end, I went with Poeta — an album I’d heard great things about but had yet to dive into. Released in 1978 during his golden years, it’s his 3rd album, and provided an emotional listening experience.
The title track kicks off the record with the typical warmth and softness you can expect from Oliver, mixed with lush arrangements and rich production. The tracks are modern and accessible, while remaining layered and interesting. The third track showcases this style perfectly while Oliver also nails the ability to juggle passion with sadness and loneliness — a common theme throughout his works. Ča Je Život Vengo Fantažija feels almost like a fairytale told through soulful lyrics of tears mixed with laughter.
Oliver is a household name across Croatia for a reason, and after the opener, we can start to see why. He doesn’t shy away from despairing stories, immediately delving into the sorrowful and melancholic Molitva Za Magdalenu — a beautiful ballad full of soul and deep feeling. Upon first listen, I was almost brought to tears. He has a way of summoning a kind of broken sadness that few singers can come close to replicating.
Zelenu Granu S Tugom Žuta Voća continues in the romantic direction as we follow the story of a man dreaming about a beautiful foreign woman. As someone who isn’t fluent in Croatian, I often feel like I’m missing pieces of the poetry. I rely a lot on my ability to admire the beauty of Oliver’s voice, appreciating the rhythm and flow of the poetic lyrics, and the coming together of the piano and guitar. It has a slight pop sensibility, but is still deeply rooted in Dalmatian tradition.
Oprosti Mi, Pape featuring Klapa Trogir, adds a beautiful choral element to the record. The humming of the introduction provides a simple and comforting feeling, resulting in an honest, relatable, and universally likable song.
Zbogom Ostaj Ljubavi begins with a sensual, slow groove; it’s hard not to be enchanted by the slow, romantic sway of the guitar. Then you look into the lyrics:
‘ Ima dana kad sam sjetan i kad ne znam kud sa sobom prazan sjedim kraj klavira’
The track is far more fragile than the arrangement would have you believe.
Ti Me Vodi Preko Voda is the emotional tipping point of the album. Oliver opens with a beautiful guitar riff and continues with some absolutely heart-wrenching vocals, mixed with a gentle piano; it’s impossible not to shed a tear. The piano chords have a way of seeking the ache and vulnerability deep inside — you need a warning before playing this record!
After the previous track, Fedra comes as a bit of a relief. Still delicate, it has a more hazy and psychedelic feel to it, like something from 60s Indexi. It’s a welcome change of texture without breaking the album’s overall flow.
By the end, it’s hard not to walk away a little shaken from this emotional rollercoaster. I saw someone mention online that if you listen to this after a few drinks, you’ll force yourself into a teary stupor — and they’re correct… The album is filled with vulnerability, beautifully delicate arrangements, and deeply soulful vocals.
I’m already familiar with a lot of his tracks, but Poeta offered something new — a warm, sad, and gentle journey. A hugely underrated gem from one of Croatia’s greatest ever voices.
