Head of the festival Michal Kaščák opened Pohoda 2017. (source: Sme - Jozef Jakubčo)
The festival was opened around 17:00 by its founder and head (and former musician) Michal Kaščák who explained, as quoted by the Sme daily, that more thorough security steps targeting all those coming in had been put in place, but he also stressed that the number 21 is a lucky one. 2017 heralds the 21st year of the music fest that was originally smaller and held at a different site. It is now held at Trenčín airport and is growing bigger every year. Kaščák’s perception of the first day is that it focuses on humour, and thus the performers are two Slovak groups known for their ironic lyrics, and the Norwegian band Ylvis, which pokes fun at pop music.
After a brief welcome speech, the first band, Slovak group Chiki liki tu-a, started to play. Then, a selection of Slovak musicians played the iconic Bolo Nás 11 / There were 11 of Us album, and Ylvis followed with their gig. The Norwegian musicians appeared at a meeting with journalists in weird clothing designs including wings attached to their backs, clearly mocking local fashion styles but also the metrosexual yuppie trends and other cultural and lifestyle features.
Their ‘What Does the Fox Say’ song became a hit, although not everyone understood its irony and its philosophy, according to Sme.
The festival will last until late on June 8.
