Category: News

While working on Atis Ieviņš’s first solo album, the song “LĪGO” was created during a creative break. As the Jāņi celebration approaches, we all deserve a proper rock Līgo song!

“Songs are constantly being written in parallel with concert work. But due to our busy schedules, studio projects keep getting postponed. Years go by, and at some point, you realize your soul is thirsty to express something personal. It’s a fragile turning point after so many years on stage. But if not now, then when? That’s why I’m determined to create this album together with my bandmates, including songs written by both myself and our guitarist Jānis Čubars. We’re also planning to include a collaboration or two. But right now, we’re taking a short break from the studio work for the holidays to launch a fun, rocky Līgo track outside the album’s context,” says Atis Ieviņš.

Jānis Čubars adds: “My wife Monta Čubare and I have recently formed our own band called “VIENI”, and we’re writing songs together. We’re all side by side here, and that led us to co-write something festive for Atis. We support each other because we’re passionate about the same thing. It just feels right.”

Band leader and powerhouse vocalist Atis Ieviņš is currently preparing his original debut album with the band, although he is already a well-known presence on Latvia’s biggest stages. His past appearances include the “Zvaigznes ceļš” tour dedicated to Alex’s memory, the revived rock opera “Lāčplēsis” by Rēzija Kalniņa, in which he played the role of Dītrihs, and the reimagined “Putnu Opera”, where he took on the role of the Sparrow—demonstrating strong operatic vocals with a rock edge. Throughout his career, Atis has collaborated with Latvia’s top composers, including Mārtiņš Brauns, Jānis Lūsēns, Zigmars Liepiņš, Raimonds Pauls, and Harijs Zariņš. In the past, he also performed with the bands “Colt” and “Ogres Blūza Brāļi”.

Band “The Rock Brothers” has been active since 2012, performing on both large and small stages across Latvia. Most often, the band delights audiences at festive events—city celebrations, private parties, weddings, and other occasions—by rocking out with well-known Latvian and international song covers. The band’s vocals and bass are handled by Atis Ieviņš, guitar by Jānis Čubars, and drums by Kaspars Pļavnieks.

Friendship, the scent of summer, and the lightness of first love come together in the song “Aveņu Kokteilis”, where musicians from the group “Gambits” team up with singer Raiders (real name Aivars Konutis), who is taking his first step into the world of original music.

“Aveņu Kokteilis” blends pop and country vibes with a catchy melody, danceable rhythm, and lyrical summer imagery of a warm and sparkling connection between two people.

The vocals for the track were recorded by Raiders — a well-known cover artist in Latvia who has performed at a wide variety of events, and is now beginning his journey into original music. He shares: “This song is like a refreshing drink on a hot summer evening — light, warm, and a little dreamy. I hope every listener finds something personal in this cocktail.”

The lyrics and music were created by the members of Gambits themselves. “Aveņu Kokteilis” marks just the beginning of the group’s planned pop-country direction, with more singles already on the way.

The song is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.

Gambits is a collective of musicians formed by long-time friends and colleagues: Edgars Jass (keyboards), Mārtiņš Sliede (guitar), Daniēls Pelcis (bass guitar), and Harijs Gūtmanis (drums). Although they’ve been performing together in various lineups for many years, “Aveņu Kokteilis” is their first officially released original single.

On June 6, musician STIRNA releases her latest single “Tauta” – a powerful and striking song about the inner struggle with public opinion and the desire to keep moving forward toward one’s goal.

The song “Tauta” is an emotionally intense confession about the pressure experienced by anyone who dares to be visible, heard, and different. The music was composed by STIRNA and Kaspars Ansons, with lyrics by STIRNA and production by Kaspars Ansons.

“The core message of the song is painfully relevant: there will always be opinions, criticism, and judgment, no matter what you do. But one must find the strength to stay true to themselves and keep going toward their goal, even if the whole world stands in the way. This song is meant to give listeners the freedom to choose—whether to judge or, on the contrary, to feel inspired. “Tauta” is a song about strength. About not breaking. About loving what you do despite others’ opinions. You can do what inspires you and be happy—even if someone doesn’t like it,” says STIRNA.

Alongside the single, a music video is also being released and is now available on YouTube. In the video, STIRNA visually portrays the impact of public opinion on her, showing her internal battle to not lose herself and to remain real and authentic.

“Tauta” is STIRNA’s second official release. Her debut single “Pirksti dūrē” came out on April 30, 2025, marking the artist’s bold entry into the Latvian music scene. With her unique style and deeply personal messages, STIRNA has quickly captured the attention and respect of listeners. The song stood out for its minimalism, inner tension, and honesty. A remix of the track was also created in collaboration with emerging artist SMØØD, giving the song an entirely new sound.

STIRNA (real name: Lilita) is a Latvian musician who describes herself as a “free-form artist.” Her stage name is no coincidence—STIRNA is an acronym, with each letter representing a personal promise. Her music gives a voice to those seeking truth, freedom, and the courage to be themselves. It’s not tailored to algorithms, but to people.

The single “Tauta” is available on all major streaming platforms starting June 6.

The new indie folk/rock band Idille surprises with a vibrant and powerful summer-inspired track that encourages breaking free from routine and reflecting on muses of the past.

“Pazust Sajūsmā” is a journey into the feeling of freedom and a contemplation of past muses. Lead vocalist Gunārs Gaumigs comments: “This song tells a story of emotions and muses once experienced — and the eternal search for new moments of awe.”

The members of “Idille” are highly acclaimed and experienced Latvian musicians. Kristiāns Kosītits, the band’s bassist, is also known as a member of “Carnival Youth”. Drummer Rūdolfs Daņiļevičs has performed with artists such as Aminata, Ozols, and “Kautkaili”. Vocalist Gunārs Gaumigs and guitarist Ralfs Brieze have contributed to various musical projects, enriching the band’s sound with their diverse backgrounds.

“Idille” has already released three songs accompanied by music videos and has gained recognition by performing at several major music festivals. For this summer’s concerts, the band has prepared a phenomenal live experience for its audience.

Listen to their latest single and follow the band on social media, where upcoming summer concerts in Riga and across Latvia will be announced soon.

Listen to “Pazust Sajūsmā” now: https://youtu.be/saqVzvorG5Y?si=lMuL2QcMIei-6swx

Follow “Idille” on social media for updates: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/idille.official/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idilleidille

The band “Crazy Dolls” proudly announces the release of their latest single “Mūs mētā”. The song captures the undeniable energy and boldness of youth — a force that drives the world forward with fresh, often unexpected ideas.

“This song is dedicated to youthful maximalism — that driving force that pushes us to move forward and create,” says Midis, the band’s songwriter and vocalist. “It’s about the ability to believe in the impossible and do what adults might consider madness. We want to remind everyone how important it is to recognize and appreciate this youthful spark, even when it seems irritating or pointless. After all, some realizations only come with age — and by then, some opportunities may already be missed.”

This year has marked a period of creative experimentation for “Crazy Dolls”, including the introduction of a more electronic sound. Midis has mastered several analog synthesizers, whose influence is clearly heard in this single and will continue to shape the band’s upcoming releases. “Despite all the experimentation, we haven’t abandoned our core values — our songs still live in major keys. And we haven’t forgotten the mandolin either, whose signature sound continues to weave through almost every “Crazy Dolls” track,” Midis adds.

The new single is a testament to the band’s drive to constantly evolve and offer listeners fresh musical experiences while staying true to their distinctive identity.

“Crazy Dolls” is known for their uplifting, major-key songs featuring the characteristic sound of the mandolin. The band was originally formed in 1997, revived in 2009, and remains active in 2025! Band members: Midis – arrangements, vocals, and studio production; Mārtiņš Poļakovskis – lyrics and vocals.

Popular Latvian artist Patrisha has released a new Latvian single titled “Atnāc rīt” today at June 10. The track serves as the first glimpse into her upcoming album, set to be released this autumn. The song explores the dynamics of relationships and a person’s ability to grow through change.

Patrisha’s new single is a musical reminder that life, much like the seasons, moves in waves — from warmth to cold and back again — yet it’s possible to bloom in every stage.

“A person, just like a flower, can bloom in any season — as long as the right person is by your side and the environment is supportive. “Atnāc rīt” is about the ability to grow, to change, to make mistakes and overcome challenges in a relationship, while remembering that each new day is a chance to start over and become a better version of yourself. Winter can arrive even in summer, and summer can arrive in winter — but the right person beside you will always help you find courage, confidence, and a sense of safety. Through this song, I want to remind listeners that beauty and joy don’t come without struggles, but those struggles are meant to be faced together,” says Patrisha.

The lyrics of “Atnāc rīt” were written by Patrisha herself, while the music was composed by Patrisha and Roberts Memmēns. The track was produced by Roberts Memmēns and Daniēls Pelcis.

“Atnāc rīt” is the first single from Patrisha’s upcoming album, which she is currently working on. The album is expected to be released this autumn.

The new single is available on all major streaming platforms starting June 10, and is also airing on Latvian radio stations.

Watch the lyric video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7zQus6xez2c?si=766-MKwOXWkPuvZ5

The city rock band “Laika Suns” is kicking off the summer with their brand-new single “Tikai uz laiku”. This is the first release from their upcoming album, which promises an energetic sound and marks the beginning of a new creative chapter.

The song “Tikai uz laiku” embodies “Laika Suns” signature ability to combine melodic rock with modern soundscapes, making it the perfect soundtrack for warm summer adventures.

Although the first sketches of “Tikai uz laiku” were created a few years ago, the song found its final form last summer when the band recorded new material in a small house by the sea.

“The new set of songs became a release valve for everything that had built up during the creation of our album “Imitācija” , which took a full five years to complete — a process shaped by navigating through pandemics, war, and general confusion. After that album’s release, everything new was written in a short burst of creativity last summer and completed this spring,” says Arnis Račinskis.

The band also invites fans to an intimate gathering where they’ll preview the sound of the new album. The event will take place this week, on June 12, at the “Veldze” creative factory’s boiler house (entrance from Matīsa iela 8). Attendees will be among the first to hear fragments of the upcoming album and meet the band in a relaxed, informal setting.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1268977474654952

“Laika Suns” was formed in 2013 in Riga. The band consists of Arnis Račinskis (guitar, vocals), Kārlis Josts (bass, backing vocals), Elvijs Pārpucis (guitar), and Jānis Burmeisters (drums). Frontman Arnis Račinskis was previously known as the vocalist of the band “Mofo”, while Kārlis Josts and Jānis Burmeisters have performed with bands such as “The Sound Poets”, “Nesen”, “Tesa”.

Since its founding, “Laika Suns” has released several records — their debut EP “Nakts Karalis” (2013), albums “Gaismas Lādiņš” (2015), “Tālās gaismas” (2023) and “Imitācija” (2024), which also featured several guest vocalists: Aurēlija Rancāne (“Tautumeitas”), Kristīne Pāže (“Kautkaili”), Gabriela Zvaigznīte, and Estere Tauriņa.

Among the band’s most well-known singles are “Pavasari”, “Atceries Rīgu vasaras naktīs”, “Rīts Rīts Rīts Rīts Rīts Rīts” (with Kristīni Pāži) and “Sarkanā gaisma” (with Mesa), which regularly receive airplay on Latvian radio.

“Laika Suns” is known for their energetic performances and distinctive sound that blends melodic rock with modern audio textures. Their creativity and ability to connect with their listeners have earned them multiple Latvian music award nominations, including the “Austra Award”, and in 2024, the band received the “GAMMA” music award for
“Artist of the Year in the Alternative/Indie Genre”.

The music video for the song “Ir par maz” – created by Dāvis Gauja, Aleksejs Beļeckis, and Līva Vernere – translates the song’s message into a moving visual story, inspired by the ancient Greek myth of Icarus and its parallels in modern societal behavior.

Director Dāvis Gauja explains: “A noble act of combustion. A dark world that demands much from us. Striving, validation, recognition—this is all very serious. The sun. The fluctuation between keeping your chin above water and ambitions that singe the skin is a normal state for us, today’s Icaruses.”

The song “Ir par maz” appears on the recently released full-length album “Anomālija” by Evija Vēbere and Ivars Arutjunjans, featuring several guest artists, including rapper E.V., who shares: “Collaborating with Evija was magical! I felt honored from the very first moment when an artist of her caliber approached me about this project. Everything came together naturally, with maximum creativity and an indescribably positive energy throughout. What could be better than a collaboration between Evija Vēbere and E.V.?”

Evija adds: “As the album was nearing completion, artist Aleksejs Beļeckis reached out to me with an idea – he and his friends wanted to create a music video and asked if I had a song that might suit it. I was truly happy and moved that this particular song resonated with the entire team. Every step of the process deeply touched me – the selflessness and dedication from everyone involved were incredibly inspiring. Each of us poured a piece of ourselves into this, creating something special together. You can feel that in every frame of the video.”

The cast of the music video features: Alise Bokaldere, Evija Vēbere, E.V., Betija Zvejniece, Oto Avots, and Liene Helēna Nugumanova.

Latvian DJ and producer [Ex] da Bass – widely known both in Latvia and beyond – has recently released a track that may be his most prominent in recent years. In collaboration with Maltese dance music producer Panza, the two have created a vibrant and musically rich cover of the 1992 club anthem “It’s A Fine Day” by British electronic dance music group Opus III. The new version has already gained solid traction on Spotify and other music streaming platforms in a relatively short time.

“Although this brilliant club classic has seen countless versions over the years, I’d like to believe that our interpretation – built around the rhythmically pulsating yet modern Afro House sound – has really turned out great! And that vocal! Can you believe this voice belongs to a Latvian singer? Huge thanks to Paula Pūpola! Several music professionals I trust – as well as dance music fans – have said that in this project her voice sounds almost identical to that of Kirsty Hawkshaw, who performed this track in 1992. By the way, Paula is currently a student at the Latvian Academy of Music. Our version even received a very positive response from the legendary Opus III vocalist herself. I put my shyness aside, sent it to her… and she liked it! It’s hard to predict what will follow, but I have a strong feeling that the streaming numbers will look very promising in the coming months,” shares [Ex] da Bass.

The track – available both in radio edit and extended mix versions – can now be streamed on all major music platforms worldwide, including Spotify and YouTube: