MEU December 24 newsletter

Lviv’s Live Music Scene Adapts Under Fire

 In a compelling article for OpenMuse project, Alona Dmukhovska, Head of Music Export Ukraine, shares how Lviv’s vibrant live music scene is adapting to the pressures of war. Venues and organizers have embraced new realities, addressing challenges like curfews, power outages, showed the creativity with planning and programming, and the need for enhanced safety protocols. Some promoters even do more events now, than before the pandemic! How is that possible? 😲 The article highlights the resourcefulness of local artists, creatively in panning and the resilience of their audiences, who continue to support live music as a way to foster hope and unity.

 OpenMuse is a pan-European project dedicated to exploring and amplifying the music industry’s role in shaping cultural and societal narratives. This piece sheds light on how Lviv's music community persists in creating cultural value under extraordinary circumstances.

📸 Vlad Yaremchuk at AAA Podcast

Discover the Journey of Vlad Yaremchuk on the "Access All Areas" Podcast

In the latest episode of FKP Scorpio’s Access All Areas podcast, Vlad Yaremchuk, booking manager at Atlas Festival, shares his unique perspective on navigating the live music industry amidst challenging times. Vlad discusses the resilience of Ukraine's music scene, the innovative approaches that have kept the industry alive during the war, and the role of music as a unifying force in difficult circumstances.

This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the personal experiences and professional insights of one of Ukraine’s leading music professionals. Don’t miss this inspiring episode filled with stories of determination and creativity in the face of adversity.

📸 Ukrainian Artists at ESNS 2025

Aaaand don’t forget that you are invited to ESNS and concerts of Ukrainian artists! Four outstanding Ukrainian acts are set to perform at the prestigious Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS) showcase in January 2025. Known for launching careers across Europe, ESNS is a prime platform for emerging artists, and this year’s Ukrainian delegation is stronger than ever.

• Carpetman: A rising indie star blending intricate lyrics with lo-fi soundscapes.

• Postman: Kostiantyn Pochtar, known for his signature "city folk" style, offers a unique mix of acoustic guitar and electronic beats, as heard in his latest album, Still Life​.

• DONBASGRL: An avant-pop artist merging deep bass and Ukrainian folklore, born in Donbas and now collaborating with Berlin-based producers. Her music, like the song Zbroya, tells powerful stories of resilience and identity​.

• Aircraft: his minimalist music is created using only a drum machine, guitar and vocals. The lo-fi sound is combined with soft vocals, sometimes reminiscent of early Depeche Mode, warm and brooding guitar motifs and the classic sound of drum machines and synthesisers of yesteryear, reminiscent of Cocteau Twins and A.R. Kane. 

This lineup exemplifies the diversity and creativity of Ukraine’s contemporary music scene. Their performances at ESNS will highlight their unique talents while offering international audiences a glimpse into the vibrancy of Ukraine’s cultural landscape. Don’t miss their showcases in Groningen this January!​

Meanwhile, the Music Export Ukraine team wishes you a great holiday season and a fruitful New Year 2025!

Listen to the best UA tracks of 2024 on Spotify