Just when Eastern Europe was experiencing a financial & socio – political crisis to a point where there was absolutely no artistic & cultural expression a band was formed. This band was called Dubioza kolektiv & not only did they come into existence in Bosnia & Herzegovina but also became the most popular live outfits from that region. They are quite a sensation with their “politically incorrect” vibe, traditional Balkan flavours & world genres like Reggae, Ska, Hip –Hop, Punk even Punjabi! Dubioza kolektiv developed their music sensibilities, inside basement shelters during the siege of Sarajevo & therefore their songs, to the contrary of their musical inspiration, explores themes of peace, tolerance & understanding that comes with the authority of direct experience. This band is also considered to be the No. 1 band this year at the Eurosonic Festival, Europe’s main conference & showcase festival that focuses on European music. With this accreditation & working with Faith No More’s Bill Gould’s record label Koolarrow Records, they created a niche for themselves, internationally.
Earlier this year, this Bosnian band had done a 5 city tour with us, in association with VH1 India. They promoted their new album called ‘Happy Machine’ in collaboration with Manu Chao, Benji Webbe, BEE2 & songs written in English, Spanish & Punjabi. The boys of Dubioza Kolektiv & us were touring like a band of gypsies wiggling down Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune as well as SulaFest in Nashik. From their impromptu jam sessions in the bus to their energetic crowd involvement tactics, from their unifying stage presence to their yellow uniforms, they truly were an experience to reckon with.
We are moved with the band’s experience on their tour & so we share it with you:
“This was our first visit to India. We went there not knowing what to expect but entire tour ended up being above all of our expectations. We got a chance to play at Sula Festival in front of very enthusiastic crowd of festival-goers and we were really amazed by both response of the audience and general organizational and production level of the festival itself. Playing club shows in Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi and Pune we managed to get a glimpse of different audiences in these cities and to squeeze in some limited touristic sightseeing that left us craving for more. At the last stop of our tour in Mumbai we were lucky to meet IP Singh, an amazing singer with whom we organized impromptu hotel room recording session and shot our song “All Equal” with him almost without rehearsal. We really hope that we will get back soon”
This band was far from anything corporate & anything unreal, they actually gave us a glimpse into their war affected lives by showcasing their unique expressions of traditional music arrangements & their views on the political situation in their country. Listening to them has also has made us feel positive & culturally, ambitious.