Etnika, founded in 2000, was the leading renovator of Maltese roots music. They “bowed” towards folk music and then went beyond it playing Malta’s ancient vanishing melodies. They established their relevance in a contemporary context using creative approach and a focusing on a vivid performance.
Their music was a fascinating mix of cultures which have affected the history of Malta throughout the ages: Arabic, Italian, Sicilian, British and of their own exuberant creativity.
Band Members included Andrew Alamango on guitars and tambourines; Walter Vella on saxophones; Oliver Degabriele on acoustic and electric bass; Mario Vella on vocals; Alison Galea on vocals; Andrej Vujicic on bass drum andpercussion; Chubby on percussion; Michael Galea on percussion; Cikka on dance and percussion; Chris on tuba; Roger on trumpet; Jon on trombone; Effie on cornet; Sandro on guitar; and danjeli on samples and MIDI.
Discography:
Nafra (2000)
Żifna (Dance) (2003)
Maddalena’s Marvellous Tripfolk Klabb (2016)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.