Nikadimus Experience — Bystree, Vyshe, Silnee (Nikadimus Experience, 2024)
The album Bystree, Vyshe, Silnee [Чемпионы: Быстрее. Выше. Сильнее], which means faster, higher, stronger, was originally recorded and independently released in 2014 as a limited edition. Ten years later, it has been re-released on streaming platforms, featuring remastered sound and new cover art. The title, derived from the Olympic motto “Citius, Altius, Fortius,” symbolizes the band’s determination to overcome the challenges faced by independent artists and achieve their artistic goals.
The album combines electronic drums and percussion with the passion and pleasure of ancient folk songs. Consequently, electric bass, electric guitar, and analog synthesizers effortlessly intertwine with polyphonic vocals deeply grounded in traditional melodies. This way, the band creates a complex soundscape where the leading instrument or melody is often indistinguishable, and the genre is difficult to define.
Nikadimus Experience was formed in 2010 in Moscow by J. Nikadimus, bassist Yuri Mitrichev, and vocalist Fania Rodina. Their music incorporates traditional Russian songs from various regions, performed by J. Nikadimus and Rodina. The band’s unique approach treats folk songs as an abstract vocal canvas, mixing them elegantly with diverse genres of modern electronic and rock music, from pop to ambient. This innovative style reflects on how folk songs might sound today if their tradition had remained unbroken and folklore continued to be popular.
Until 2014, Nikadimus Experience performed at club concerts and music festivals. After releasing their debut album Bystree, Vyshe, Silnee and the EP Superpozitsya, the band took an extended hiatus from their musical career.
Yukhann Nikadimus is a great traditional “kokoshnik” maker whose works were even featured during Eurovision, as well as a musician, who is experimenting with different genres. He relocated from Russia to Serbia in 2022 and now lives in Novi Sad.
Musicians: Yukhann (J.) Nikadimus on vocals, flutes, keyboards; Yuri Mitrichev on bass; and Fania Rodina on vocals. Guests musicians: guitarist Matvey Ushakov; drummers Denis Antonov and Alexander Vetkhov; folk ensemble Tausen under the direction of Yarina Nikolaeva.
Author: JGurski
