A compilation titled Emmanuele Cilia – The Complete Studio Recordings (1931-32), is being released to mark the 50^th anniversary since the passing of the renowned folk singer.

The famous recordings were recorded in June 1931 and August 1932 when he ventured to Milan to pursue his music, together with other singers. The recordings were published by Anthony D’Amato on HMV records. Recently, the full set of recordings were transferred from the original records and vinyl discs to digital format for preservation. This project is a joint initiative by the Friends of the National Archives of Malta and Filfla Records.

Emmanuele Cilia, more popularly known as Leli ta’ Zabett, inspired generations of Maltese folk singers (ghannejja), and his songs are of historic value, offering a snapshot of Maltese society more than 80 years ago!

Some of the tracks, including ‘X’ahna sbieh min jaf jarana’ and ‘Xalata ghal San Pawl,’ will surely kindle memories among those of a certain age who would have jammed to them on the Rediffusion service!

The compilation of 38 three-minute songs will now be available on a 12” vinyl long play, double CD and even in downloadable format, nearly 90 years after the launch and half a century from Cilia’s death. The official launch is being held tonight, 10^th December, at D’Amato Records in Valletta at 7pm.

Listen to Cilia’s ‘Ghanja lin-Namrata’ (Song to a loved one) here: