A Study in Arts & Resistance: How DakhaBrakha Breaks Barriers
Eclectic. Innovative. Captivating. DakhaBrakha’s upcoming performance in Hill Auditorium is a vital artistic contribution to the University of Michigan’s Arts & Resistance theme semester, and presented in association with the Weiser Center for Europe and Eurasia.
DakhaBrakha is a Ukrainian quartet that blends folk, world, rock, and avant-garde elements into a unique and mesmerizing sound. Their name means “give/take” in the old Ukrainian language, and they certainly live up to it by giving audiences a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
DakhaBrakha was founded in 2004 by Vladyslav Troitskyi, a theater director who wanted to create a musical accompaniment for his plays. He recruited four talented singers and musicians who shared his vision of exploring the rich and diverse heritage of Ukrainian culture. Together, they experimented with various instruments, vocal styles, and rhythms, creating a new musical genre they call “ethno-chaos.”
DakhaBrakha’s music is not only influenced by Ukrainian folk traditions, but also by the sounds of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. They use a wide range of instruments, from drums and accordions to cellos and flutes, as well as exotic ones like the didgeridoo, the tabla, and the darbuka. Their vocals are equally impressive, ranging from haunting chants and harmonies to powerful solos and rap-like verses. Their lyrics are mostly in Ukrainian, but they also incorporate words from other languages, such as English, Russian, Arabic, and Mongolian.
DakhaBrakha’s live performances are an absolute spectacle to behold. They dress in striking outfits that combine traditional Ukrainian costumes with contemporary fashion. They also wear tall woolen hats that add to their distinctive appearance. They interact with the audience with humor and charisma, inviting them to clap, sing, and dance along. They create a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that transcends language barriers and cultural differences.
“Considering that Ukraine has a big neighbor who thinks that even the existence of our country is a historical misunderstanding… every one of our concerts abroad can be regarded as a political act in itself.” (Marko Halanevych, DakhaBrakha)
DakhaBrakha’s upcoming presentation in Ann Arbor is part of their North American tour, which also includes stops in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Toronto. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see DakhaBrakha live in Hill Auditorium on Friday, November 3. This is a concert experience you’ll never forget!
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Principal Sponsor
Ken Fischer Legacy Endowment Fund
Funded in Part By
a grant from the Arts Initiative at the University of Michigan
