Ukrainian electro-folklore outfit Go_A have debuted the video for 'SHUM', the song they will perform in the second half of the first Semi-Final on Tuesday 18 May.
Speaking to Eurovision.tv lead singer Kataeryna explains a little more about SHUM:
"The inspiration for the song was Ukrainian mythology and folklore mixed with and a little bit of dark techno. and it carries a message of unity and hope. The main message of the song is that we all should unite for a common goal in order to do something good and important."
About Go_A
Go_A are a band who specialise in the modern reinterpretations of Ukrainian folklore, packaged within an electronic sound. The name consists of ‘Go’ as in ‘movement’ and ‘A’ as in the ancient Greek letter ‘alpha’, which refers to going back to one’s cultural roots.
The story of the band began in 2012 when producer Taras Shevchenko met singer Kateryna Pavlenko, and after recording several songs, they realised that Ukrainian folklore and electronic music are a perfect match, combining energy and emotions into an engaging mix.
Today, Go_A has four members: lead singer Kateryna Pavlenko and musicians Taras Shevchenko, Ihor Didenchuk and Ivan Hryhoriak.
Kateryna has studied folklore most of her life. She sings using the ancient folklore technique of “white voice” (based on an open throat and free volume with a bright colour) and has a command of extreme vocals.
Taras Shevchenko is a keyboard and percussion player and is Go_A’s producer. He works in various music styles and knows how to harmonise completely different things in music, like the Ukrainian sopilka and Brazilian drums, or the bandura with heavy guitar riffs and drum ‘n’ bass.
Ihor Didenchuk is a folklorist and unique multi-instrumentalist whose rich musical arsenal includes traditional Ukrainian instruments such as the sopilka, frilka, floyara, telynka, trembita and the drymba. Ihor is also a member of a rap group.
Ivan Hryhoriak grew up in the Carpathian Mountains and has been experimenting with musical styles and sounds, including acoustics (finger style), prog metal (bass guitar), double bass in a folk orchestra, and electric guitar. Ivan also works as a vocal coach.
Ukraine in the Eurovision Song Contest
Ukraine have a stunning record of Eurovision results, with over half of their entries finishing inside the top ten, and two champions in the shape of Ruslana (2004) and Jamala (2016).
Perhaps just as impressive is the fact that since the introduction of the Semi-Finals in 2004, Ukraine have not failed to qualify for the Grand Final. An achievement they share with Australia.
