Raxtu Raxti - Bluķa māte

Raxtu Raxti is a popular Latvian music band. Founded in 2011, it combines traditional Latvian folk music with modern arrangements to create a unique and recognisable sound. The group’s music often features folk song motifs as well as various traditional Latvian instruments, such as the bagpipe, wooden flute, kokle, and violin. Raxtu Raxti is widely known within Latvia and regularly performs at various festivals and concerts; the group’s performances, especially together with dancers, have become an important part of Latvian cultural life.

The song “Bluķa māte” (Mother of the yule log) is from the band’s latest studio album, Vidū saule. It can be described as ethno-fantasy that is accessible to a wide audience. Excerpts of genuine folk melodies and motifs played on folk instruments – performed by sister and brother musicians Kristīne Kalniņa (voice, violin) and Edgars Kārklis (bagpipes) – often appear within the group’s harmonious and musically polished orchestra of instruments and voices. The song celebrates the traditions associated with the winter solstice. The yule log must be pulled around the house three times to protect the homestead from evil spirits and misfortune. This song includes the beautiful but not very common “olilo” solstice refrain.