Fierce fiddle playing, powerful horns and contagious rhythms characterize Habadekuk – a young and lively nine-piece band from Denmark that mixes salsa, jazz and folk and catapults old Danish dance melodies into the 21st century.
Habadekuk is widely known for their high energy concerts, consistently wowing audiences at festivals throughout Europe.
This summer, Canadians will have the chance to see them for the very first time when they perform at the 2012 Mission Folk Festival (July 19 - 22).
The very formation of the band has a Canadian connection. While studying at The Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts in Southern Denmark, the members first heard renowned Quebec folk ensemble, La Bottine Souriante, and decided to form Denmark’s first folk big-band.
Habadekuk’s music is traditional Danish. The band learned their repertoire from old Danish folk musicians, from ancient, dusty music books and old field recordings.
Most of their songs are between 150 and 200 years old, from days when the tunes were played at harvest homes, weddings and parties.
“We collect material and use the most exciting stuff in our shows. Inspiration for our arrangements often comes from other types of music. We try to play with enough energy to reach out over the footlights and start a party,” said fiddler, Kristian Bugge.
“This music was composed for dancing, and that’s the type of energy we work to transmit ... we can’t wait to surprise Canadian audiences this summer.”
The 25th Mission Folk Music Festival runs July 19-22 at Fraser River Heritage Park.
Visit www.missionfolkmusicfestival.ca to see the full lineup of musicians, including ticket information, bookings and more.