The Ukrainians return to Bedford Esquires on Friday (January 12) following a storming set in 2016!
The band were founded by ex-Wedding Present guitarist Peter Solowka and his pal Len Liggins in 1991, the very year Ukraine regained its independence from the Soviet Union.
Mixing fast indie rock with Ukrainian folk, theyhave performed their unique cultural fusion across the world – playing more than 1000 gigs in 20 countries, and cutting loose eight albums ina quarter of a century!
The music is influenced by east and west. Peter grew up in a small Ukrainian community in the north of England. From an early age he was exposed to the rich musical folk culture of Ukraine – a tradition where history was passed down through music and verse.
In the late 80’s, Peter met Len, a student of Slavonic studies with a love of folk music. Together they played traditional Ukrainian songs and composed their own in a traditional style. Len’s sonorous Ukrainian vocals with Peter’s fast guitar created a new style of music which was adopted by Peter’s other band.
The Ukrainians were formed soon afterwards. Typically, they compose their own songs, but their albums and live shows have a selection of traditional folk songs and covers of western songs in Ukrainian. The music is passionate, and pacey while maintaining the emotions of their Ukrainian roots.
Tickets are a tenner in advance. Get yours here
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