Naphta is an alias of Paweł Klimczak, musician and journalist whose controversial stylistical shift to folk-inspired electronic music has sparked much interest and discussions about the contemporary music scene in Poland. He’s the finalist of Nowa Tradycja contest organised by the Polish Radio. His 2020 EP Dom strawiło was also recognised by the Virtual Gusle contest.
Żałość (Polish for “grief”) is a direct follow up to Naphta’s breakthrough EP Dom strawiłofrom 2020. Featuring Mala Herba, Vienna-based Polish singer and musician on three tracks, it’s an emotional weave of tradition and spiritual sound expressions. "People of our lands have felt grief for centuries. Squeezed between the quarries of history, oppressed by serfdom and wild capitalism, devoid of voice and influence over own fate, and regularly uprooted... We're surrounded by greed that destroys nature in the hustle and bustle of clever words that are meant to undermine the true history, culture and experience of this land." - says Naphta. It’s no wonder then that Żałość is so permeated by melancholy. These are mournful songs for the world we’re losing everyday. But where there’s sadness, there must also be joy -that’s the eternal pursuitof existential balance. The album is taking inspiration from eastern Polesie, Radomskie and Kozła regions in Greater Poland and its spiritual line is markedby traditional, maddening dance music, where oberek blends with the apocalyptic rhythm of dubstep. There used to be a saying that musicians fraternise with the devil, and their instruments can carry mysterious forces. Today, many mysteries have been unravelled, and we seem to understand more of the world. And yet, we still do not realise how great the value of our surroundings is, contained in the beauty and miracle of nature, or in the support of the local community. Not all is lost, but we have less and less to save each day. And that's what Żałość is about.
Kozber. Emerging from the vibrant underground scene of the '90s, Krzysztof Kozber has been crafting electronic soundscapes for over two decades. Whether it’s Techno, House, Acid Breaks, or Leftfield grooves, his sets are a journey that keeps the dance floor alive. Beyond his role as a DJ,
Krzysztof is also a music producer and sound engineer. He collaborates with a variety of artists, but he also takes time to explore different genres. In his hip-hop/jazz duo, Bonasforsa, he showcases a different side of his musical talent, while his solo project, Regular Customer, reflects his versatility.
Krzysztof is also apart of Lazy Bones, a new DJ project formed with Jamie on the East Bank of the Thames, born out of a shared love for music. Together, they create a unique blend that captures the essence of their diverse influences. You can catch him monthly on Netil Radio with his show “Fear of Music,” where he invites a variety of guests to share their musical insights.
Krzysztof has played at numerous festival afterparties, honing his ability to connect with the crowd. Expect two nights filled with folk-ethnic rhythms wrapped in funk, disco, boogie, tribal, and eclectic house. Whether you're a seasoned raver or a newcomer to the scene, Krzysztof Kozber promises an unforgettable sonic experience.