Alex Meixner

As 2022 comes to a close, I hope everyone is in good health and spirits and most importantly looking forward to making the best 2023 possible. I’m very excited about a lot of new music, adventures, and life for this new year. I’m thankful for Paula by my side, as well as my children, friends, fans, and supporters while we all strive to do our best now and in the future. Best wishes everybody. Hopefully, these songs help continue our traditions and inspire us all to honor our past while we make our new memories.

I haven’t played this song since I recorded it for my 2000 album “The Legacy” but it has been my most streamed song on Spotify for 2022. (In no small part due to the Dutch polka fans who love the button accordion bass solos!)

https://open.spotify.com/track/6ZRJfoWw2tQL10QUkdL65Q?si=zbPswOjuSAWxVUGMNSgpEw

My recorded version uses some synthesized sounds and a hybrid American Slovenian-style rhythm section, where I’m playing all of the accompanying instruments, as well as the lead diatonic button accordion. The original version by Lojze Slak, from Slovenia, is a little more subdued, with the opening bass figures played on the baritone horn.

This solo rendition is more influenced by the first American recording by the late great piano accordionist Bob Timko (who passed away in September of 2022). His staccato approach had a very distinct sound on the piano accordion and hopefully, I do justice to his memory with my interpretation.