СОЮЗ (SOYUZ) is a collective from Minsk, Belarus, now based in Warsaw. Led by Belarusian multi-instrumentalists Alex Chumak and Mikita Arlou, alongside Polish musicians Albert Karch and Igor Wiśniewski, the band crafts a distinctive sound where jazz, folk and pop converge in refined compositions and layered arrangements.International recognition followed with the album Force of the Wind, which was named one of Bandcamp’s Best Albums of 2022 and received airplay on outlets including BBC Radio. With their subtle melodies, cinematic atmosphere and cross-cultural musical influences, SOYUZ has carved out a unique place within the contemporary international music scene.On their latest album KROK, Belarusian for ‘step’, the band explores its Eastern European roots more deeply than ever. Recorded in São Paulo and Warsaw and enriched by contributions from international guest musicians, the album blends folk ballads, jazzy pop and lush string and brass arrangements. The result is a cinematic listening experience where tradition, innovation and personal storytelling come together.