By Sotiris Bekas
Divanhana performed in Vienna (November 21) as part of a European tour that underscores their rising popularity. More importantly, it reflects the fact that the band is currently in the most mature and creative phase of their artistic journey, 14 years after their formation by a group of students from the Sarajevo Academy of Music in 2009.
The multi-award-winning Bosnian band (Best Group award by Songlines magazine in 2023) maintains its pure Balkan temperament and musical character, deeply rooted in Sevdalinka—the traditional songs of Sevdah. These are primarily love songs that dominate the soundscape of Bosnia but also represent a shared musical heritage across the former Yugoslav territory.
Divanhana clearly respects and masterfully performs these traditional songs, fully embracing their folk roots. However, their artistic repertoire extends far beyond this. First and foremost, they are an exceptionally well-honed band in terms of repertoire, performance, stage presence, expressive depth, communication among the musicians (and with the audience), and even concert direction and costumes.
Additionally, they seem to truly enjoy what they do. They don’t just deliver a routine performance; they express themselves profoundly, sometimes with the intensity of a rock and roll band, other times with the finesse and balance of a seasoned ensemble. Their influences span various musical genres, including occasional touches of hip-hop and electronic music. Yet, they never stray from their core—the songs of the Sevdalinka tradition. Being Balkan, they don’t force their mentality but instead invite the audience to join them, whether in dancing or singing along. Still, despite the festive atmosphere, they avoid arrogance and remain grounded in delivering a polished and luminous performance—a celebration that doesn’t fade, a creative chaos that is entirely… organized.
The members—Selma Droce (lead vocals), Neven Tunjić (piano/keyboards), Nedžad Mušović (accordion), Lejla Larisa Droce (violin), Azur Imamović (bass/guitar), Rifet Čamdžić (drums), and Irfan Tahirović (percussion)—each have their role and creative space on stage. No one overshadows another, even though the exceptional Selma Droce stands front and center as the lead (and highly dynamic) vocalist. It’s clear as day that there is strong cohesion and mutual respect among them.
On Thursday, November 21, at SIMMCity in Vienna, all these qualities were revealed one by one before an enthusiastic audience that filled the venue. The crowd actively participated, adding to the atmosphere of a beautiful evening.
One of the most memorable moments was when Divanhana performed a song popular in the old cafes of Sarajevo (as they explained for the non-Bosnians in the audience), and a couple got up to dance near the last rows. Their graceful, nostalgic dance was a scene of beauty and elegance.
Towards the end of the night, Divanhana flooded the space with the radiant melody of a classic Sevdalinka gem (“S one strane Plive”), which they often perform together with their audience.
This was the closing note of a remarkable band that continues its European and artistic journey, making it evident that they still have much more to offer.
