Euro 2012 Football fans will get the chance to sample live Ukrainian and international music in Kiev’s fan-zone site, in the heart of the city.
Singleton, an indie-rock band from Kiev, have released two albums and performed numerous European concerts.
What makes them stand out from the other Ukrainian bands is that all their songs are in English – giving them a more world-wide appeal.
Supporters have been promised an unforgettable show with bands, singers and DJ’s featuring in the fan-zone line-up.
So do Singleton think the football fans will like what they hear? Alina, Singleton talks to euronews:
“For many people Ukraine is a sort of a dark horse: some don’t really know what to expect, others are even afraid to come. But still it’s interesting for everyone, because people are looking for new experiences. There’ve been lots of bad things said about [Euro 2012] but lots of good things as well and Singleton, as a band would like to show that during our concerts in the fan-zone, that Ukraine is ready to become a cultural source as well. Because the level of music created here, the level of performance is pretty high”
The Euro 2012 fan-zone will be set up right in Kiev’s city centre. Organisers say visitors will get to listen to around 5 hours of live music a day. However, if music is not your thing, there are also workshops on folk-crafts and cooking, as well as mini-football tournaments.
Mixing music, culture and of course football, should set the tone for a fun and celebratory atmosphere in Kiev, at least that is what the organisers are hoping for.
Vilen Matvyeyev, Fan zone Euro 2012 says:
“If we’re talking about rock, we mean light rock, dancey rock, it will be positive, energetic music, which goes well with football and creates the drive and atmosphere a football fan needs.”
The Kiev fan-zone will be equipped with a big screen TV to show the football matches as well as a VIP area close to the main stage and worry not, organisers have promised to keep prices low. So for just 3-4 euros, supporters can get themselves something to eat and drink, or even buy a souvenir to take home. All the while taking in the mood and of course, the music.
Gorchitza is one of Ukraine’s most successful electro-pop bands. They have grown up listening to the likes of The Beatles and George Michael giving their music a real European feel. To top it off their lyrics are in English, a major plus when playing for an international audience.
“We’re bright representatives of contemporary electronic and dance music and I think that foreigners will be surprised by the positivity in our songs. They’re charged with energy and drive. That’s why I think it’s worthwhile to come to these concerts, to listen to the music, dance and have fun!” explains Oleksiy, “Gorchitza” band member. Olha, “Gorchitza” band member continues: “I think our music is charged with a sort of Ukrainian drive.”
”Some say, Ukrainians are like the Irish: hot-tempered, explosive, but really kind. Maybe some people will recognise our tracks, because lots of our friends from abroad call us, saying our music has been played at nightclubs in London and Paris.” Oleksiy concludes.