UPBEAT visited one of its member festival, Czech Music Crossroads in the charming Czech town of Ostrava; the home of a bustling street fiesta, great gigs, a band of friendly delegates, and last but not least, a heartwarming award ceremony.
The showcase festival, this year running with an Estonian & Taiwanese artist focus, is organized parallel to Ostrava’s Art & Life happening: an event full of joy, creativity and wonderful music.
The winners of this year’s UPBEAT Best New Talent Award, the dazzling duo of Almir Meskovic and Daniel Lazar accepted their prize before giving heartfelt thank yous and a stunning concert. In an unusual pair-off, they also played with Taiwanese artists Wooonta, in line with the festival’s theme.
Other striking acts filled with creative energy: daltonists from the strongly fermenting alternative scene of the Tri-city region in Poland; the refreshingly original Slovak folk ensemble Ondro a kamaráti as well as old friends from Estonia: Sounds & Stories from Ruhnu Island captured our team’s imagination.
Crossroads festival spoiled us with genuine street jollity, a close-knit delegate group and concerts to remember. Much recommended boutique experience in lovely Ostrava, until we meet again!
