CLICK HERE FOR ALL OF THE ACTS WE COVERED AT SXSW 2023
AUSTIN, TX- Another performance I happened to stumble upon was Kazka at Inn Cahoots, and it turned out to be one of the most inspiring moments of my SXSW experience.
Kazka is a Ukrainian music group known for their distinctive blend of pop, folk, and electronic music. The band was formed in 2017 and has quickly risen to prominence, both in Ukraine and internationally. Kazka’s music is characterized by catchy melodies, ethereal vocals, and a fusion of traditional Ukrainian elements with modern pop sensibilities.
Kazka consists of four members: Oleksandr Zarva (producer, songwriter), Mykyta Budash (keyboardist), Dmytro Mazuriak (guitarist), and Sofia Ihnatsyeva (lead vocalist). Each member brings their unique talents and contributions to the band’s overall sound and creative process. With a number of releases under their belt, they garnered major international recognition when they represented Ukraine in several prestigious music events, including the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019. Their participation in Eurovision helped expose their music to a wider audience, and their performance of the song “Apart” earned them acclaim and further expanded their fanbase.
As evidenced by the large bouquets of Sunflowers (the national lower of Ukraine) that adorned Sofia’s microphone stand, their performance at SXSW was a tribute to their homeland. With Ukraine still currently fighting for its sovereignty, their music, which blends contemporary pop and traditional Ukrainian elements, reminded Austin, TX, and fans old and new, that their Ukrainian heritage matters. Their history matters.
When Sofia jumped off the tall stage to roam into the crowd, singing in her native tongue, fans and friends gathered around her. Some sang loudly with her. Some had tears in their eyes. In Austin, TX.
Even though I did not understand what they were singing, it was still a powerful event to witness, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to stumble upon Kazka and their message.
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CLICK HERE FOR ALL OF THE ACTS WE COVERED AT SXSW 2023
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