Mar’yana Jaga Band + Steel City Sue Trio
2 p.m. in the auditorium, at the Everglades Club, Woy Woy
One great afternoon, Two fabulous bands
Book here: www.trybooking.com/DMAJK
Mar’yana Jaga Band
A vibrant fusion of Ukrainian folk traditions, European musical heritage, contemporary electronic sounds, and Indian rhythms, Mar’yana Jaga Band is redefining what multicultural music can be in the 21st century.
Led by acclaimed Ukrainian-Australian artist Mar’yana Sywak, the ensemble creates a unique Electrofolk experience that bridges continents, cultures, and generations. Through original arrangements and innovative interpretations, the band transforms traditional melodies into dynamic contemporary performances that resonate with audiences from diverse backgrounds.
A singer, violin virtuoso, songwriter, actress, and producer, Mar’yana leads this amazing group. She draws inspiration from her Ukrainian roots while embracing the rich musical traditions of Europe and beyond. Her powerful vocals and expressive violin playing form the heart of the band’s distinctive sound.
The ensemble also features an exceptional lineup of other internationally trained musicians:
Lucy Voronov – Cymbalom, the traditional Eastern European hammered dulcimer. Lucy adds authenticity and depth to the band’s folk soundscape.
Maharshi Raval – Tabla & HandSonic. A master percussionist, creating exciting cross-cultural dialogues between Eastern European melodies and South Asian traditions.
Alex Parkmen – Jazz Keyboards, with sophisticated harmonies and contemporary arrangements
Together, Mar’yana Jaga Band presents a musical journey where Ukrainian folk songs are reimagined through modern electronic production, European classical influences, jazz improvisation, and Indian rhythmic traditions. The result is an energetic and emotionally engaging performance that celebrates cultural diversity while honouring the traditions from which the music originates.
From haunting ancient ballads and vibrant folk dances to original compositions, Mar’yana Jaga Band demonstrates that music is a universal language capable of connecting people across cultures and generations.Whether performing at festivals, concert halls, multicultural events, community celebrations, or international arts showcases, Mar’yana Jaga Band offers audiences an unforgettable Electrofolk experience that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly contemporary.Mar’yana Jaga Band – where Ukrainian soul, European elegance, Indian rhythm, and modern innovation unite.
Steel City Sue Trio
Steel City Sue brings her own brand of ragtime industrial folk. Hailing from Newcastle, Sue wrote award-winning song Boom Town and is known for forging a new songbook for Newcastle & the Hunter which speaks to ‘the universal in the particular’ – with ardent and dry-humoured songs about local exploitation, knotty love, (somehow funny) climate catastrophes and even a ridiculous jingle on how to indicate correctly on a roundabout! Be prepared for raucous rags and a tasty mix of old-timey roots.
The trio of multi-instrumentalists features the fearsome playing of Naomi Jones (Midnight Chicken) and Tim Merrikin (Coomba All Stars) and Sue all swapping out twin fiddles, banjo, Cajun accordion, double bass, guitar and loads of harmonies. Sue recently recorded a new album in Wales with Mike & Katie West (Truckstop Honeymoon) titled the Red Zone launching in July.
Check out Sue’s award winning song Boom Town about the cost of living in an extractivist economy below.
Tickets: Just $25 Members; $30 General Admission
Book here: www.trybooking.com/DMAJK
Here are a few tunes by the Stars of our concert on Sunday 28 June. We hope you’ll enjoy them – but remember – they’re EVEN BETTER LIVE.
