Some albums invite you into another world from the very first note, and “folk fatale”, by DIVKA, does exactly that. The Toronto duo brings together old folk traditions and fresh ideas in a way that feels genuine, heartfelt, and purposeful. Rather than treating these songs as historical artifacts, they breathe new life into them, allowing stories that have survived for generations to speak with remarkable clarity today. DIVKA is made up of Alina Kytasty Kuzma on bandura and vocals, alongside Zoë Santo on viola and vocals. Their chemistry is impossible to ignore. The rich sound of the bandura blends beautifully with the darker tones of the viola, while their layered voices create moments that can feel mysterious, comforting, playful, or deeply moving. Every performance feels intentional, giving each song the space it needs to leave a lasting impression.
The album is built around songs created and carried by women through generations of conflict, migration, and cultural suppression. That idea gives the record its emotional foundation, yet it never feels weighed down by history. There is room for celebration, humor, desire, grief, resilience, and even a little mischief. Songs such as “Of Storms, Babas and Fiddling Rabbits”, and “Kozel”, capture the joy of nature and village life with infectious energy, while “Harbuz”, “Oj Na Mori”, “Volodar”, and “Shopski Prispevki”, present romance and attraction from perspectives that feel refreshingly honest. One of the album’s most satisfying moments comes with “IDK”, which reimagines a 1950s country novelty song through a feminist lens. The rewritten ending gives the story a completely different outcome, adding both humor and a welcome sense of justice. On the other end of the emotional spectrum, “Rusalka”, reflects on the destruction caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, while “Garden of Time”, explores inequality and the fragile nature of oppressive power. These songs carry real emotional weight without ever losing their humanity.
In my opinion, “Folk Fatale” is one of the strongest folk releases I have heard in quite some time. I also love how DIVKA respects tradition while giving every song fresh energy, making the entire album feel alive from beginning to end. From start to finish, the record never loses its identity. The performances feel passionate, the arrangements are captivating, and every track contributes something meaningful to the larger picture. It is an album that celebrates women’s voices across generations while proving that traditional music can still feel exciting, bold, and completely relevant today. If you are looking for an album that offers beauty, emotion, and genuine artistic passion, make sure to spend time with “folk fatale”. Follow DIVKA on their social media channels and keep an eye on their upcoming performances. Add this album to your favorite playlists and share it with friends who appreciate thoughtful, beautifully crafted music. Every listen helps these incredible songs reach new ears, ensuring that the voices, traditions, and stories behind them remain vibrant for many years to come.
