Ukrainian quartet DakhaBrakha will perform at the Palladium concert hall in Riga on Dec. 6, bringing their new album “Ptakh” to Latvian audiences as part of a European tour. Known internationally for blending traditional folk melodies with global rhythms, the group returns to the city following numerous previous concert visits.
Roots in Kyiv Experimental Theatre and the “Ethno-Chaos” Sound
Founded at the Kyiv experimental theatre Dakh, DakhaBrakha defines its unique musical style as “ethno-chaos.” The group builds its sound upon Ukrainian folk songs gathered during folklore expeditions and archival research, merging traditional tunes with instruments and rhythms from diverse cultures. Powerful vocal harmonies, percussion, and unexpected genre shifts define a recognizable artistic signature that has landed the quartet on major festival stages worldwide, including Glastonbury, Sziget, Roskilde, Bonnaroo, and Pohoda.
Did you know? DakhaBrakha recorded their latest album in Kyiv at Kaska Studio with producer Lesik Omodada, despite maintaining a heavy international touring schedule.
The “Ptakh” Album: A Chronicle of Life and Resilience
Released as the group’s first full-length studio record in five years, the 14-track album “Ptakh”—meaning “Bird”—explores themes ranging from sorrow over loss to unwavering faith in the future. Group members state that the record serves as a chronicle of life changes, noting that while some tracks were written long before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the war years have given them new and sometimes prophetic meanings. The title track features a collaboration with Ukrainian writer and musician Serhij Žadans, while band member Marko Halanevič created the album art. The release spans a wide emotional range, moving from ritual-inspired chants and melancholic lyricism to the rhythmically heavy “Trypilske techno” and the humorous track “Yanky.”
Riga Concert Program and Visual Art Integration
Riga audiences will hear selections from “Ptakh” alongside beloved classics such as “Sho z-pod duba” and “Vesna.” An emotional highlight of the evening is expected to be “Plyve Choven,” dedicated to Ukraine’s defenders and those who will not return home. The musical performance will be accompanied by video art, featuring works by Ukrainian artists that lend a distinct visual layer to the tour. Since the Russian invasion, DakhaBrakha performances have functioned as a platform to speak to the world on behalf of their country. Marko Halanevič summarizes the band’s mission by stating that they express gratitude for international support, voice the needs required for Ukraine to survive, share their pain, and showcase a fragment of their rich culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is DakhaBrakha performing in Riga?
The quartet performs on Dec. 6 at the Palladium concert hall during their European tour.
What is the new album called?
The new 14-track album is titled “Ptakh,” which translates to “Bird” in English.
Where was the album recorded?
The band recorded the album in Kyiv at Kaska Studio in collaboration with producer Lesik Omodada.
Want to stay updated on upcoming international concerts and cultural events in Riga? Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest arts coverage.
Keep reading