Agitator Bunx Ponders and Plans Ahead: Durability of Drum and Bass in Ukraine
In the face of ongoing conflict, the drum and bass scene in Ukraine continues to showcase resilience and adaptability. Cities like Dnipro, historically hubs for electronic music, have fostered a rich history of experimental bands and clubs.
The experiences of living through war have served as a catalyst for creativity for many Ukrainian artists. Aggressor Bunx, a Ukrainian duo influential in the neurofunk subgenre for about 12 years, has acknowledged that the emotional challenges have led to new ideas and a deeper inspiration for their music.
The Ukrainian drum and bass scene has been impacted by the war, but it continues to find ways to thrive. Artists like Aggressor Bunx are hopeful for a future where the scene can flourish once the country stabilises.
International collaborations and support are essential for the scene's recovery and growth. Promo groups such as Funkmasters, Hovanka, and Sounds of Ukraine play a crucial role in promoting Ukrainian drum and bass, both domestically and internationally.
Looking ahead, Aggressor Bunx aims for a future where the drum and bass scene can grow, with more international artists performing and festivals being held. They emphasise the importance of continued support for the scene.
Drum and bass in Ukraine serves not only as a form of entertainment but also as a cultural expression and a symbol of resilience. It reflects the country's ability to adapt and create in challenging circumstances. There is ongoing collaboration among artists from different regions of Ukraine, such as Kyiv, Odesa, Kharkiv, and Sloviansk.
In the midst of challenges, the party scene in Ukraine is responding positively. People are staying strong and waiting for the end of the war. Despite the risks and financial challenges, some promoters continue to host parties to support the drum and bass culture.
Aggressor Bunx, who have worked with notable neurofunk labels such as Ram Records, Eatbrain, Blackout, Bad Taste, and others, have collaborated with respected producers like The Upbeats, Audio, and Black Sun Empire. They have released more than 40 EPs and four albums, and have played on major European festivals like Let It Roll and Rampage.
The war has personally affected Aggressor Bunx, causing them to value their lives more and pay more attention to their family and friends. They have recently migrated to Poland, where they rediscovered their energetic sound at a drum and bass event in Krakow.
Aggressor Bunx would like to highlight the work of promo groups like Funkmasters, Hovanka, and Sounds of Ukraine based in London, UK, and encourage more activity from other promo-groups in Ukraine. They aim to stay informed about new trends in the Neurofunk scene and maintain their unique 'AB approach' in their music.
The last interview with Aggressor Bunx on UKF was more than eight years ago. Despite the difficulties they have faced, they remain hopeful for a brighter future where people in Ukraine can live a normal life again, with the opportunity to listen to their favourite music and go to parties.
In the face of ongoing conflict, Ukrainian artists in the music industry, like Aggressor Bunx, find inspiration for their drum and bass music from their experiences, using it as a form of cultural expression and a symbol of resilience. International collaborations and support from groups such as Funkmasters, Hovanka, and Sounds of Ukraine are crucial for the recovery and growth of the Ukrainian drum and bass scene, fostering a future where more international artists can perform and festivals can be held.
