Mehana

With a mix of East and West folk spiced up by Romani (gypsy), Mehana fuse the traditional and the modern. They will take you on a music journey from melancholy of Roma violin laments to storming beats of Gypsy rumba, mixing with traditional Balkan rhythms as a blend of influences through time and space.

It does not matter that we sing in different languages – songs about love, everybody understands!

Mehana is a music band coming from Wellington, New Zealand. Known for their vibrant and energetic performances, Mehana has carved a unique niche for themselves in the local music scene. The band was formed in 2015 by a group of friends with a shared passion for Balkan and Eastern European music.

Mehana draws inspiration from various traditional musical styles, including Balkan folk and Romani music and Sefard. Their sound is characterized by lively rhythms, intricate melodies, and soulful vocals. The band members, who are multi-instrumentalists, skillfully blend instruments like accordion, violin, trumpet, guitar, and percussion to create a rich and dynamic musical experience.

Over the years, Mehana has gained a dedicated following in Wellington and beyond. They have performed at numerous festivals, cultural events, and music venues, captivating audiences with their infectious energy and authentic interpretations of traditional songs. Their live performances often feature spirited dancing, encouraging audience participation and creating a festive atmosphere.

Members of the band are:

Svetozar Andic – vocal, guitar

Elisabeth Auchinvole – violin, vocal

Michael Coastello – trumpet

Luka Andic – bass, frula, vocal

Misha Moicevic – accordion, vocal.

Cassandra Bakic – percussion

Manda Safavi – Daff (persian drum)

See more about them on Facebook.