In September 2023, Shapat (Whisper), an alternative music centre based in Novi Sad, Serbia, celebrates its second anniversary. This unique centre is dedicated to bolstering the alternative and rock and roll scene in the region. In a rapidly changing music landscape where trends come and go, Shapat stands as a constant, serving as a hub for creating and preserving artistic heritage. Its mission is to reassure artists that their work is invaluable and will be cherished by future generations.
Whisper is not just a place to record music; it is a place where the authenticity and creativity of bands that strive to express themselves through their artistic endeavours is preserved, nurtured and celebrated. Whisper is more than a studio; it is a collective commitment to support artists, an opportunity to develop musical talent and preserve their works from oblivion. During these two years, many original bands passed through the doors of this studio and each of them left a deep and lasting mark.
Centre of the Alternative and Rock’n’Roll Scene in Novi Sad
Shapat has indeed evolved into a focal point for the alternative and rock’n’roll scene in Novi Sad. Beyond just song creation, it serves as a platform for idea exchange, artist support, and nurturing of a community that values authenticity and independence. It’s a sanctuary where music emanates from the soul, transcending sound to become an authentic expression of emotions, experiences, and stories.
“Šapat may not have achieved significant numbers on digital platforms, but it has succeeded in establishing a reputation among the people “on the street.”
I am very proud of the fact that when I talk to people who follow the local scene in Novi Sad and Serbia, I often come across individuals who have heard of us and follow our work in one way or another. It’s important to build what we’re creating on a sound and solid foundation and to establish certain standards. We aim to lay a foundation for the new generations who will create music, and we want to offer them something different from what is predominantly presented in the public sphere.”
said Savo Kostić, founder of Shapat.
“There are many shows that project a façade of normality, and that’s evident to anyone who’s even remotely aware that things aren’t as they seem. There are certain shows on national television that should be doing what we do at Shapat, but they aren’t. In the span of two years, we’ve been approached by nearly 300 original bands that are actively working and creating. We don’t have the resources to record all these talented musicians, but these TV shows I mentioned do, and yet they don’t. The fundamental difference between those shows and Shapat is that Shapat isn’t funded by the “budget,” we sustain ourselves through our work.”
Added Kostic
From a Grassroots Initiative to hosting Bands from the Region
In August 2023, Shapat’s Facebook page featured a map of the former Yugoslavia, highlighting the various locations from which bands that recorded live sessions at the alternative centre Shapat originated.
Indeed, it’s noticeable that there’s no marker for Macedonia on the map of bands that have recorded live sessions at Shapat. I know that Kostic and the team at Shapat would likely welcome the chance to host a Macedonian band and have them leave their creative mark on the show. This could serve as a testament to their artistic existence and freedom for generations to come. Furthermore, fostering regional relationships can be highly beneficial for artists and performers, making this a valuable opportunity for Macedonian bands to connect with Shapat, in Novi Sad Serbia.
Happy 2nd Birthday!
As we mark two years since the establishment of Shapat, it’s crucial to emphasize the studio’s significance within the local music scene. Its unwavering commitment to nurturing alternative and rock ‘n’ roll music has been truly priceless. This serves as a reminder that persistence and dedication yield results and that artists operating outside the mainstream are undeniably deserving of recognition and support.
The editors of “Music Nonstop Today” extend their heartfelt wishes for continued success in the future and offer warm congratulations on the first two years of this humble yet profoundly impactful whispering of rock ‘n’ roll music. It has played a significant role in nurturing the creative endeavours of many young talents who express their artistic essence with guitars in their hands.
To conclude this article, we’d like to share with you the latest recording released by Shapat. It’s a performance of the song “Play” by the band Jolly Little Bunch, who will be performing at the Exit Festival in July 2024. Enjoy the music!
