Belgrade's Changeover Festival: A Melting Pot of Global Alternative Music

Belgrade recently hosted its third annual Changeover festival, a four-day musical extravaganza that transformed various city clubs into vibrant stages for diverse and alternative genres. The event, which took place across multiple iconic venues including Karmakoma, KC Grad, Drugstore, 20/44, Zappa, Bitef, and Mačkin Dom, showcased an impressive lineup of bands from both the region and international scenes. Attendees were treated to an eclectic sonic journey, experiencing everything from the smooth rhythms of Estonian jazz-pop and the lively beats of British dance-folk, to the mysterious sounds of Transylvania. The festival also featured unique fusions, such as cumbia and Latin music blended with punk and metal, and a Niš Romani orchestra that boldly experimented with desert rock influences. Hardcore and aggressive guitar-driven acts further diversified the program, ensuring there was something to captivate every listener seeking a departure from mainstream sounds. A standout performance was delivered by the Slovenian band Širom, whose ambient soundscapes, interwoven with world music elements, resonated deeply with the audience. Their use of self-made instruments added a distinctive, mystical quality to their act, particularly noted during their performance at Bitef. The Niš alternative trio Igralom also garnered significant attention, their established sound further enriched by the collaboration with Bogdan Nikolić's brass orchestra, which was described by one attendee as creating "a true musical treasure." The British duo Gans (bez Rosesa) from Birmingham delivered a high-energy show, paying homage to both punk icons and electronic pioneers of the 90s like Prodigy, with expectations that they will soon grace even larger stages. The festival organizers, Connected, were lauded for their dedication to fostering a platform for less-known, alternative artists. The event continues to be a crucial fixture in Belgrade's cultural calendar, promising more innovative and engaging musical experiences in the years to come.