A leading force in Latvian traditional music for nearly three decades, Ilgi members spent their early years travelling around the country collecting songs and learning to play folk instruments, striving to revive long-forgotten musical traditions. More recently, the ensemble has evolved into a folk-rock band that is equally in touch with both the 15th and 21st centuries. Ancient instruments like the kokle (board zither) and trough fiddle blend smoothly with guitar, electric bass, and modern percussion to create dense, driving rock and jazz influenced music that also remains deeply rooted in ancient Latvian mythology and traditions.

Led by Ilga Reizniece's fascinating, smoky voice and masterful violin playing, the group also features Maris Muktupavels on kokle, bagpipes, pipes, and jaw harp; Gatis Gaujenieks on bass, trough fiddle, mandolin, domra (lute), and frame drum; Egons Kronbergs on guitar and balalaika; and percussionist Vilnis Strods.

Ilgi's latest CD is Ne uz vienu dienu, but the mesmerizing "postmodern folklore" performed by this superlative group should definitely be enjoyed live!