Renowned Ukrainian rock outfit Antytila has announced a two-stop tour of Australia later this year. The band – whose members served on the frontlines in 2022 following Russia’s invasion – will play Sydney’s Liberty Hall on Thursday, 9th November, followed by Max Watt’s in Melbourne on Sunday, 12th November.
The shows will serve as a fundraiser for the Antytila Charitable Foundation, which aims to support the Ukrainian armed forces, as well as the children and families of deceased soldiers. Members of the band – led by singer and songwriter Taras Topolia – initially joined the territorial defense forces in 2014 after Russia’s invasion of Crimea.
Ed Sheeran & Antytila: ‘2step’
Antytila made headlines in 2022 after they appeared on a remix of Ed Sheeran’s single ‘2step’, which came about after the band contacted the British singer to ask if they could perform remotely at the ‘Concert For Ukraine’ fundraiser event in Birmingham.
Organisers refused due to the group’s direct involvement in the military (the event was focused on humanitarian aid), but Sheeran kept in touch. The singer asked them to jump on a new version of ‘2step’, and brought them on stage to perform the track in Poland.
The video features footage shot by Taras Topolia while working as a medic on the frontlines.
“It has already raised awareness about the situation in Ukraine and this process is continuing,” Topolia said of the collaboration, as per the BBC. “I am very glad a famous singer supports Ukrainians.
“Ed Sheeran, his team and others understand that we need help and support to survive and win. And I am very grateful for this.”
Antytila 2023 Australian Tour Dates
- Thursday, 9th November – Liberty Hall, Sydney NSW
- Sunday, 12th November – Max Watt’s, Melbourne VIC
Tickets on sale now.
Further Reading
A Guide to Every International Tour Coming to Australia in 2023/24
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