The 16th edition of East of Culture – Different Sounds transformed Lublin into Poland’s most musical hub from July 6 to 9, 2023, bringing together a diverse range of genres, styles, and harmonies. This marked the 10th edition of the festival under the banner of East of Culture. The 2023 edition’s main headliner was the British band Ladytron, performing their only Polish concert as part of their world tour. Other notable acts included Whispering Sons, Nuha Ruby Ra, Stian Westerhus, To Rococo Rot, and Dead Cat in a Bag.The latter two bands also participated in a broader, anniversary presentation of the Gusstaff Records label. In addition to German and Italian acts, the story of this esteemed label was complemented by Polish bands, namely szorstkie, Tuleje, and Atol Atol Atol. The label’s boss, Janusz Mucha was also a guest at one of our meet’n’greet sessions.

The non-musical modules of the festival featured film screenings that explored the themes of sound and youth as central elements of the narratives. The films included: “Piosenki o miłości” (Songs of Love) by Tomasz Habowski, “Stop-Zemlia” by Kateryna Gornostai, “Soul” by Pete Docter, “Silent Twins” by Agnieszka Smoczyńska.

The festival was further enriched by a captivating array of exhibitions “Pawsome Posters” which presented Dominika Czerniak-Chojnacka’s posters, Sofia Yablonska’s photography- potographs by a Journalist, Reporter, Feminist, and the First Ukrainian Female Photographer, “The Glass Plate Legacy” – Exhibition Commemorating Leopoldyna and Edward Janusz, Wschodni Express: Exhibition of Authors and the covers of their books.

Literature enthusiasts were in for a treat at the festival, with a lineup of captivating events featuring renowned writers, poets, and translators. These gatherings provided a platform for literary exchange, fostering connections between authors, readers, and the wider literary community. The festival also served as a stage for the unveiling of new literary gems. The 2023 edition of the festival saw the expansion of the Wschodni Express publishing house’s portfolio with three captivating titles: “Insekt. Dramaty ukraińskie” (Insect. Ukrainian Dramas) by P. Położencewa, L. Kudajewa, and O. Sawczenko, translated by Anna Korzeniowska-Bihun, “Osobista pustka” (Personal Emptiness) by Ausra Kaziliunaite, translated by Paulina Ciucka, “Planeta pożeraczy serc” (Planet of Heart Eaters) by Kristiina Ehin, translated by Maria Perlikiewicz

The festival also witnessed the continuation of the “Zakotwiczone” publishing series, further expanding the range of literary works available to readers. The series welcomed two new additions: “Republika Głuchych” (Republic of the Deaf) by Ilya Kamińky, translated by Anna Łazar and “Wylej swój gniew” (Pour Out Your Anger) by Lamed Szapiro, translated by Bella Szwarcman-Czarnota.

The festival extended its reach beyond musical performances, offering a stimulating array of discussions and engagements that explored various aspects of music. A notable highlight was the discussion with representatives of Gusstaff Records, a renowned label celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023. This gathering provided an opportunity to delve into the label’s rich history, explore its contributions to the music landscape, and celebrate its achievements. We also addressed the crucial topic of inclusivity in the music industry. Participants engaged in international discussions, sharing best practices for engaging young individuals in musical life, examining the role of music in shaping creative cities of the future, and analysing the current landscape of the Ukrainian music market. Aspiring musicians were provided with valuable opportunities for growth and development through individual consultations with industry representatives.

East of Culture – Different Sounds is also an event for children. The festival recognises the importance of nurturing a love for music in children, dedicating a special section to engaging and educational activities tailored for the youngest attendees. These activities included a magical musical journey for children aged 0-2, workshops on building and decorating instruments, graffiti creation inspired by the festival’s artists, and interactive sessions with string instruments and musical vocabulary development. Building on a cherished tradition, the festival’s youngest participants once again joined forces to create a festival song and music video.