RAKA and Balamuc Live

Raka

Raka are an 8-piece ensemble that play traditional music from the Balkans. They take their name after a traditional Bulgarian dance the ‘Raka,’ full of leg kicks, clicking heels and hands held high, the unmistakable groove of Raka brings everyone to their feet. Raka's music has a strong focus in the folk traditions of Bulgaria and Macedonia, as well as the Romani music that span far and wide across the Balkans. Their meandering musical tributaries have all led them to one communal river: the love and commitment to understanding and interacting with the music of the Balkans.

Raka does not play ‘fusion music’, and neither do they imitate. They bring to life a genuinely authentic repertoire wherever they are, from sweaty back rooms of North London clubs to concert halls on the banks of the Thames. They took the dance for their name as that’s what they love to do. A heart rending lament can move the body as much as a pounding Bulgarian Pravo, and in Raka they have made space for both, and everything in between.

"Absolutely magnificent, no one can sit still listening to Raka!"

DJ Ritu, A World in London - Resonance FM

“Raka burst with traditional Balkan flair, the group earn their title as the essential act of the weekend.”

Eva Hibbs, Nightshift Magazine

Balamuc

Joined by their love of Balkan and Eastern European folk and dance music, Balamuc take pride in their cultural diversity with roots in Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific. Balamuc formed in 2018 when Hungarian violinist and lead vocalist, Aggie Banner and two other members of the London Gypsy Orchestra decided to explore a new repertoire of Eastern European music. One voice, a guitar and a violin quickly expanded into a full band, from cello to double bass via Marie Faucher’s clarinet.

Their music originates from Eastern Europe but stretches way beyond the usual confines of their genre. Although renowned for their fierce violin and heartfelt melodies, Balamuc are best known as their life affirming, uplifting party spirit and boundless energy. Balamuc has established itself as one of the leading Gypsy folk bands on the live scene today. With the name translating to "House of insane’ don’t expect to stay in your seat!