Heavenphetamine embarks on tour in Ukraine, blending music and war
Kharkiv is a city bustling with diverse music enthusiasts, as evidenced by the eclectic crowd gathered at the Druk venue for heavenphetamine’s performance. Among them are devoted fans, friends of fans, and newcomers lured in by a captivating concert poster. Lera and Vlada, both 26, fall into the latter category. Enthralled by the ambiance and promising music, they purchased band merchandise to remember the captivating experience. After enduring the challenges of war and a global pandemic, it marked their first time attending a live performance by international artists in Kharkiv since. The sentiment resonates with many, including myself, as the event felt like a long-awaited return to normalcy after four years of absence from live music events.
Heavenphetamine, a psych band from Tokyo, took the stage at the illuminated dancehall, mesmerizing the audience with a combination of pink, red, and blue LED lights. Sara Oda’s skilled drumming and Hiroki Oda’s masterful manipulation of a synthesizer created a melodic harmony that captivated the room. The synergy between the duo, leading the crowd with Hiroki’s vocals, left everyone immersed in the spellbinding performance.
Newcomer Nastya, 22, described the music as an ethereal experience akin to the tranquility of a yoga shavasana pose. Her initial trepidation was quickly replaced by a feeling of arriving at a joyous celebration already in full swing. The allure of the evening became apparent as she embraced the ambiance. These sentiments were echoed by many attendees who found solace and joy in the music, transcending language barriers to connect on a deeper emotional level.
As the night came to a close, plans were made to meet with Hiroki and Sara at a local cafe to discuss their ongoing tour and upcoming projects. The conversation shifted to their documentary, INOICHI, which aimed to explore the significance of music during times of conflict. Despite navigating through Ukraine’s harsh winter and facing daily Russian attacks, the band’s commitment to creating art in challenging times shone through. The documentary not only sheds light on their journey but also pays homage to Ihor, a bartender who touched their hearts during a previous visit to Kharkiv.
Ihor’s tragic fate as a soldier impacted them deeply, inspiring a profound reflection on the devastating consequences of war. This experience fueled the creation of poignant songs like “Chikai,” dedicated to Ihor and Ukraine’s resilience in the face of adversity. Through their music, heavenphetamine sought to convey a message of hope and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of art in times of war. The band’s unwavering support for Ukraine stems from a genuine appreciation for the country’s culture and people, rather than animosity towards aggressors.
Heavenphetamine’s commitment to promoting peace and unity through their music is evident in their upcoming projects. Despite the challenges of war and political unrest, they remain focused on sharing their message with audiences worldwide. Their determination to release a new album and broaden their international reach underscores their dedication to using music as a means of fostering understanding and empathy in a world plagued by conflict. As they continue their tour across Ukraine and beyond, heavenphetamine remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for music lovers worldwide.