AD
are ready for an international career but
need support, promotion and professional
help,” says Michal from Poland Music
Exports. PMX aims to promote Polish music
abroad with the help of the state’s Adama
Mickiewicza Institute. Bands have been
getting funding to go play across the world.
They’ve done Vienna, they’ve done New
York – next stop, Brighton.
“
Britain is a huge and difficult market,”
muses Maciek. “It’s really tough to build
a name for yourself unless you have an
amazing team working for you. Your music
needs to be contagious and the right
people need to hear it and like it.”
One of the main attractions in Brighton
is Monika Brodka, a former reality TV star
known for her cool electro-pop. “There’s a
lot of great music in Poland right now,” says
26
year-old Monika, who performs under
her surname. “The Polish alternative scene
is very interesting and we are increasingly
appreciated outside of Poland, too.” The
singer – who won Poland’s
Pop Idol
in 2004
–
says of The Great Escape: “It’s one of the
most important showcase festivals in Europe
so naturally I’m excited about it. Playing
concerts in the UK is especially challenging –
but I love challenges!”
Look out for Krakow’s DJ Daniel Drumz
and synth pop trio Kamp!, who are also
on the bill. “Its all waiting to be discovered,”
confirms Maciek.
The Great Escape, 16-18 May,
escapegreat.com
“
NOW IS A VERY
GOOD TIME FOR
POLISH MUSIC”
CLOCKWISE
FROM ABOVE:
THE GREAT
ESCAPE
HAS BEEN
SHOWCASING
NEW MUSIC IN
THE UK SINCE
2006,
AND THIS
YEAR THE FOCUS
IS ON POLISH
TALENT; MONIKA
BRODKA; TRÈS. B
