DIS IS MARKÉTA (SLOVAKIA)
A MODERN DEFINITION OF SLOVAK FOLK MUSIC
The band Dis Is Markéta and their untraditional traditions
The five young Slovaks of Dis Is Markéta had to actively pursue their path to success — including nominations for the Radio Head Award for their album Hrajžemi and their growing international recognition. They chose the most straightforward route: a desire to define folk music in a far more original way than most, refusing to settle for what others were doing.
“I’ve always been drawn to pushing the boundaries of Slovak folk music, though I didn’t know exactly where to take it,” said vocalist and lyricist Martina Kertészová. “That vision came together when we formed the band, where folk songs became a foundation we try to respectfully build on while preserving their authenticity.”
The group’s approach deliberately avoids the usual clichés that can smother folk roots — either with overly artistic pretension or with bland uniformity. Instead, they stir things up with unusual melodicism, rich arrangements, drama, and a catchy blend of acoustic instruments and electronic elements.
Photo: Jakub Arpáš, Peter Bednár
