Being awake at 3.30am in a hotel in a foreign country is not an uncommon occurrence for touring musicians. However, being awakened by air raid sirens and anti-aircraft units shooting down drones at that time is quite unusual. But for The Tiger Lillies, a British trio, it could be considered almost unique, as they are among the first international bands to perform in Ukraine since the Russian invasion last year. Their recent concerts in Lviv and Kyiv were described by their frontman Martyn Jacques as the most amazing shows they’ve ever done. With a cult following in eastern Europe, the vaudevillian inventors of Brechtian punk cabaret were invited back to Ukraine by the same promoter, Yougin Kibets, who hopes to attract other foreign acts based on the band’s successful appearance.
Despite feeling apprehensive before their trip to Ukraine, the band members acknowledged that they were not going to a war zone and tried to remain positive. While the risks were real, including drone attacks during their stay, they were fortunate that their performances were not interrupted. Other Ukrainian bands, according to Kibets, carry on playing despite such circumstances. The live music industry in Ukraine has faced challenges due to the war and the Covid pandemic, but it has started to show signs of recovery. Ukrainian artists are now highly motivated to create and perform music, while audiences are hungry for positive experiences and a chance to relax and enjoy themselves.
Although live music concerts provide Ukrainians with an opportunity to momentarily forget about the war, they cannot entirely escape the reality of the situation. Anastasiya Vaganova, the programme director of the Caribbean Club in Kyiv, where The Tiger Lillies performed, emphasized the need to support the country in the face of the Russian invasion. The focus of concerts and events has shifted, with a midnight curfew and a decrease in the number of concertgoers and artists due to emigration and armed service. The music industry has undergone significant changes, but it continues to adapt and thrive.
The Tiger Lillies’ promoter, Yougin Kibets, shared how heavy rock music has been impacted by the war, as many live rock music enthusiasts have joined the army. Foreign acts were previously popular, including Russian stars, but the traffic of non-Ukrainian acts has significantly decreased. However, there have been some notable appearances by international artists, offering a sense of hope and solidarity. The Tiger Lillies were one of the first bands from outside Ukraine to perform a full-scale gig, and their new album, inspired by the war, resonated with the audience. Despite the logistical challenges and the border wait, the band believes it is important to connect with their audience and show support.
The band has decided to donate most of the proceeds from their album “Ukraine” to charitable causes, highlighting their commitment to the country and its people. They hope that their music can bring some joy and relief to those affected by the war and serve as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the Ukrainian people.
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