The soaring harmonies and defiant energy of Ukrainian musical and activist group DakhaBrakha will once again heat up OZ Arts this September, following their sold-out Nashville debut here in early 2023. The concert launches a Fall 2024 US tour by the quartet, which has come to represent the spirit of a proud, resistant, and independent Ukraine as celebrated cultural ambassadors during this time of war. With power and passion, DakhaBrakha weaves ancient Ukrainian melodies into a subversive musical tapestry that embraces indie rock, pop, Hip-hop, the avant-garde, and traditional instrumentation from around the world. The folk-punk quartet has honed a haunting musical approach based around unearthly vocal harmonies and thunderous percussion, augmented by floating cello and accordion sonorities. Heralded by Rolling Stone as the “Best Breakout” of 2014’s Bonnaroo festival, their irresistible live shows have captivated audiences the world over.

Political and social activism — including calls to “Stop Putin!” and “Ukraine will win!” — has long been part of DakhaBrakha’s messaging. A month into the Russian-Ukrainian war, the group escaped from their home city of Kyiv to start touring once again. They have been performing internationally since to support Ukraine, raising money and awareness as cultural and humanitarian ambassadors. Proceeds from this US tour will be used to raise funds for Ukrainian veterans who have lost limbs in the tragically long war.