Sitting on the Eastern edge of Europe, Ukraine is one of the biggest countries on the old continent, full of rich traditions, beautiful landscapes and many amazing Ukraine artists.
Since Russia’s instigated war in Ukraine, the world has also come to learn how incredibly united and resilient Ukrainians are. Musicians are also among those who are on a mission to spread the word and raise awareness, while still working on their craft and sharing their musical talent with the world.
Here are 6 Sofar performances from Ukraine artists who we think you should discover.
1. krapka;KOMA – Sweet Distraction | Sofar Lviv
The multi-instrumentalist duo krapka;KOMA have been making waves in the electronic indie scene around Europe for the last few years. Formed in 2019, they have already played close to a 100 shows in Ukraine, as well as toured Europe and the UK, playing festivals like The Great Escape, Reeperbahn and ESNS. Also, standing with and for their country, they have been going on fundraising tours abroad to raise more awareness about the war in Ukraine.
2. adm:t – Mizh stinamy | Sofar Kyiv
Next up on Ukraine artists to hear: adm:t. The four-piece indie folk band from Kyiv have been active for a few years, releasing a number of singles and a couple of EPs, and mixing some traditional instruments into their songs, such as duduk, bansuri and others. Their latest EP was finished and released in the midst of war. Their leader and songwriter Andreii, who’s now joined the Ukrainian armed forces, gave a warm solo performance at a Sofar Kyiv show in 2018.
3. Our Atlantic – Space | Sofar Lviv
Combining groovy rhythms, indie-pop energy and soulful melodies, Our Atlantic will put you in a mellow mood with their performance of “Space” at Sofar Lviv. Since 2017, they’ve released a couple of EPs and picked up nominations at the National Music Awards. Tune in for some feel-good vibes.
4. Torban – А в горі, горі | Sofar Lviv
Traditions and musical heritage is what makes any culture unique. Named after the Ukrainian traditional musical instrument of the 17th and 18th centuries, the folk band Torban have set out to preserve the ancient songs of their culture. Enjoy the wonderful performance that they gave at a Sofar Lviv show and immerse yourself in music you won’t hear anywhere else in the world.
5. Sophia Platina – В погоне за мечтой (Dream chasing) | Sofar Utrecht
Hailing from the beautiful city of Odessa, located on the shores of the Black Sea, Sophia Platina was among those many Ukrainians forced to flee their home when the war started. Currently based in Barcelona, she also spent some time in the Netherlands where she performed a wonderful set at a Sofar Utrecht show. Enjoy A touching performance of a song about chasing dreams from this Ukraine artist.
6. The Snow (Anatoliy Gernadenko, Olga Prudey) – Nad Dunaiem | Sofar Kyiv
Lastly on our Ukraine artists list (for now): The Snow. The band delivered a stunning performance of the Ukrainian folk song “Nad Dunaiem” which translates to “Above the Danube.” Like this river that flows from the Black Forest in Germany all the way into the Black Sea in Ukraine, the mesmerizing sounds of Anatoliy’s handpan and Olga’s angelic voice will leave you in a flow state. Let this be a meditation for peace.
Looking for ways to support Ukraine? Learn more about UNITED24, and see more ways to support Ukrainian artists.
Ready to discover more Ukraine artists, or local artists near you? Browse shows.
Words by Kristaps Bedritis
Photo credit: krapka;KOMA, photo y Agustín Laya
