Myllärit

Myllarit is a dynamic brisk vocal and instrumental folk band from Russian Karelia. The Finnish "Uusi Kansanmusiikki" (The New Folk Music) has characterized them as a phenomenon of the new wave Karelian folk music. The group came together in 1992, an outgrowth of the pairing of accordionist Zobnev  -described as "a world-class accordionist" in Russian Life's series titled "100 Young Russians to Watch."- with Alexander Bykadorov, who traveled Europe together playing Karelian and Russian folk music in the streets.

 The unique sound of Myllarit combines traditional music and poetry of Karelia, the White Sea, Olonets and Ladoga regions, and also Russian songs of the Trans-Onega region, with elements of rock, jazz and world music. Thus, fitting them to suit their more modern style. Besides, the group performs songs of the Ingria ( St.-Petersburg region ) in the local Ingric dialect of the Finnish language. "Karelia represents a rich mixture of so many different cultures," said Zobnev. "Our rather severe climatic conditions help to hone this musical style. It is the music of the Russian pomors (White Sea coast natives) and Finnish and Karelian songs. It all mixes together and provides food for Myllarit."

Myllarit achieve their main impact on stage with great talent and humour. They are outstanding live performers, and are regularly touring in Finland, Russia and other republics of ex-Soviet Union. These last years, they have taken part in many festivals like Koskisfolk, Kaustinen, Haapavesi, Ugrijuhlat, Faces, Jutajaiset, Garage Fest,  Folklandia, Kihaus, Taiga Festival (Finland), Celtic Connections, Fringe Festival (Scotland), Finnish Music Festival, FinnGrandFest, Finlandia Festival, Duluht International Folk (USA), Watergate Festival (Estonia), Rockbridge, Carelian Faces, Folk Marathon, Festival of Modern Folk Music (Russia).

Year of creation: 1992

Music genre: folk, progressive folk

Main influences:

Main venues:

Line-up: Alexandr Bukadorov "Deda" (guitars, vocals), Janna Lebdejeva (fiddles, vocals), Leo Sevets (lead vocals, kantele and ÒjouhikkoÓ), Andrew Lukin (drums, percussion, didgeridoo), Roman Ershihin (electric bass, vocals), Andrey Brazevich (accordion) and Sergey Klevenskiy (wind instruments)

Download: Technical Rider