The heart of Amsterdam beats to the vibrant rhythm of Televizyon, a musical concoction simmering with diverse influences and a shared passion for creativity. This talented quartet – Sanem Kalfa, Marta Warelis, Ingebright Håker Flaten and Sun Mi Hong – weaves tapestries that celebrate friendship, cultural diversity and, believe it or not, 80s Turkish TV commercials!

The band’s roots sprouted in the fertile soil of the Groningen Conservatory, where Sanem and Marta first met over a decade ago. As Sanem set up camp in Amsterdam, the musical family expanded with Sun Mi joining the fold, adding her unique flavor to the city’s already buzzing music scene. Ingebright, described as a “fireball visitor,” brought his infectious energy and vibes, materialising the band’s dynamic.

Televizyon’s members represent a global village: hailing from Turkey (Sanem), Poland (Marta), Norway (Ingebright) and South Korea (Sun Mi). Their diverse backgrounds paint a rich canvas, where musical borders dissolve into a charming mix. Before Televizyon, these talented individuals explored various musical adventures. Sanem, Marta, and Tineke Postma even formed another quartet called “Miraculous Layers”, leaving their mark on performances like the one captured at newmusicnow.nl.

Copyright Maarten Laupman

The name “Televizyon” itself hints at their unique source of inspiration: the electrifying world of 80s Turkish television. Sanem, the band’s musical mastermind, yearned to channel that era’s infectious dance vibes onto the stage. This concept crystallized during a residency supported by Tim Spangers, curator/programmer of Space is the Place, a cornerstone of Amsterdam’s music community.

Get ready to be transported! Televizyon’s upcoming release boasts two music videos directed by Alek Riquelme, with the first one premiering on February 15th. Their electrifying residency performances have set the stage for a highly anticipated album recording in the near future.

When asked about their musical compass, Sanem points to a constellation of influences, ranging from the profound poetry of Rumi to the soaring melodies of Elgar, the edgy sounds of Blonde Redhead, and of course, the ever-present influence of life itself. 2023 was a whirlwind of incredible experiences, making it hard for Sanem to pick a single highlight. Each performance, it seems, held its own unique magic.

The future beckons brightly for Televizyon. August marks the start of their much-anticipated tour, with new opportunities coming on the horizon. The band expresses their gratitude to the Amsterdam community, especially Space is the Place, for fostering their creativity and providing a supportive environment.

Sanem, a proud Amsterdam resident, describes the local scene as teeming with inspiring artists. Her recommendations for further exploration include Frank Rosaly’s Ruidoscuro, Sun Mi Hong Quartet, and Marta Arpini.

Join Televizyon on their musical journey as they transcend time and space, fueled by the nostalgia of 80s Turkish TV and a boundless love for music. Prepare to be swept away by their infectious energy and diverse soundscapes!

Video, Picture copyright by Alek Riquelme