Budapest Ritmo brings roots and rhythms, multiple genres, fusion styles, and unexpected cultural mixes to the heart of Budapest. Global lineup meets local talent, with Ritmo’s range growing each year: a showcase stage, a conference, networking events and afterparties all geared to inspire and connect. High energy, deep emotions – discover your new favourite sound at Budapest Ritmo!
Isyan – Ko Shin Moon
A whirlwind in the courtyard of a caravanserai: Eastern scales, dust-covered guitars and whistling electronics. The whirlwind sweeps you up, and the oasis is already within reach. In recent years, Western European youth have turned toward Anatolian psychedelia the way The Beatles and The Rolling Stones once turned to Indian gurus.
Kálé Bálá – Mónika Lakatos & Romengo
Mónika Lakatos’s collaboration with Serbian band Naked is so fresh that we can’t even show you a recording yet. Budapest Ritmo often gives you a glimpse of the future – you’ll be able to hear these songs there first.
Chan, chan – Grupo Compay Segundo
“Chan Chan” is definitely in the top 10 hits in the history of world music. It became the iconic song of Buena Vista Social Club, and out of the band’s many successor formations, this one – featuring the grandsons of Compay Segundo – is the best. It’s crazy to think that Compay Segundo would already be 109 years old… By the way, did you know that the song’s title imitates the sound of sifting?
Cracking – dal:um
Korean, but far from K-Pop… The two imposing traditional Korean instruments, the geomungo and the gayageum, come to life here under the hands of two young women. It’s as if a massive sheet of ice were cracking, while the sound of tiny bells blends with the cries of seagulls. In the end, your jaw will drop anyway.
Derengés – Soma Nóvé & Sándor Csoóri Jr
This might be the most beautiful Hungarian song of 2025. It’s so universal that it could be the most beautiful song of the year anywhere else in the world, yet nowhere else does the viola embrace you quite like this.
