Armir Shahini marked a significant moment in Albanian music with his Tuesday performance, announcing the formation of “West Side Family” and the passing of Flori. Shahini reflected on the initial impetus for his musical career, citing Flori as a key influence during their teenage years. He explained that the seeds of the group’s formation were sown with Flori, beginning with a simple recording setup utilizing a magnetic tape recorder and a cassette.
This initial project eventually gained recognition and established “West Side Family” as a prominent name within the Albanian music scene. Shahini’s announcement included news of Flori’s untimely death, a loss that undoubtedly impacted the group’s trajectory. The formation of “West Side Family” represents a new chapter for Shahini, building upon the foundation established with his long-time collaborator and friend.
