Zagreb-based band Chui, known for their unique fusion of jazz, electronica, funk, and improvisation, is once again pushing boundaries—this time, quite literally, to the stars. Their acclaimed seventh studio album, Do Zvijezda (To the Stars), was released in February 2025. To celebrate, Chui will host a spectacular concert at Zagreb’s Peti Kupe on March 6.
Released under the Dancing Bear label, Do Zvijezda has propelled the band to new heights, earning them an unprecedented five nominations at the prestigious Porin Awards, including Album of the Year. This solidifies their reputation as one of the most innovative and dynamic acts on the Croatian music scene. They also claimed the Jazz & Off Artist of the Year title at the recent Rock&Off independent music awards.
The album has received widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics, making its way onto numerous “Best Croatian Albums of 2024” lists published by leading media outlets such as Vogue Adria, Glazba.hr, Muzika.hr, Jutarnji list, Tportal, Večernji list, Nacional, Mixer.hr, Ravno do dna, Music-box, and many others.
What makes Do Zvijezda truly special is not just its stellar production and masterful musicianship, but also its cosmic connection—literally. The album features the track Svemir ima novi pozivni (The Universe Has a New Dialing Code), which serves as the official anthem of CroCube, Croatia’s first satellite. More than just inspired by space, this song is actually in space, embedded in the satellite’s memory, which was launched aboard a SpaceX rocket in December 2024.
March & Spring Tour Dates:
March 6 – Peti Kupe, ZagrebMarch 20 – Ive Tijardović Concert Hall, Split
March 21 – Arsen House of Art, Šibenik
March 23 or 24 – Karlovac (venue TBA)
April 10 or 12 – Rijeka (venue TBA)
April 19 – Korčula (venue TBA)
April 20 – Benkovac (venue TBA)
May 8 – Đakovo (venue TBA)
May 9 – Horn Pub, Virovitica
May 10 – Club Oxygene, Osijek
Top Five Croatian Albums You Shouldn’t Miss
If you’re looking to dive deeper into Croatia’s vibrant music scene, here are five must-listen albums recommended by Toni Starešinić, Chui's frontman.Ivan Kapec Quintet – Intercolari
Jazz guitarist and composer Ivan Kapec once again delivers a fresh and original sound. His latest quintet album is a true auditory massage, leaving you feeling lighter with each listen.Borna Šercar – FolkDrum
Renowned drummer and percussionist Borna Šercar blends traditional Croatian music with electronic beats. Featuring the vocal ensemble Harpije, this album transports folklore to the modern dance floor.Nemeček – Prokletije II
This rock group seamlessly fuses Croatian traditional music with krautrock and psychedelic elements. The result? A thrilling mix that inspires both trance-like contemplation and uninhibited dancing.Dunije – Bilo je sada
Folk legend Dunja Knebl joins forces with rising stars Nina Romić and Jelena Galić to revive rare traditional songs from northern Croatia. These haunting melodies, passed down for centuries, tell poignant stories that remain relevant today.Mangroove & HRT Jazz Orchestra – Nešto veće od nas
A magnificent collaboration between jazz orchestra HRT and soul-pop band Mangroove, fronted by the captivating Željka Veverec. This album invites you to dance, sing along, and immerse yourself in its rich layers of sound.Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, an experimental music lover, or simply searching for something fresh and inspiring, Croatia’s music scene has something for everyone. And with Chui’s upcoming tour, there’s no better time to experience its magic firsthand!
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