We know Estonia
20.3.2025 | Culture

JMKE rocks Pärnu

Text Stewart Johnson

Photo Sanna Larmola

JMKE rocks Pärnu

 

There can be no other Estonian godfather of punk than the band JMKE, who were instrumental in Estonia’s successful push for independence. The word “push” is relevant here because no proper punk concert won’t have pushing and moshing at the front of the stage. These icons of Estonia are celebrating 39 years of music this Friday, in Pärnu’s Wunderbaar.

Their breakout song is “Tere Perestroika” from 1987, a true testament to the times. JMKE also took advantage of the relaxing travel policies from that era, being the first Estonian band to record an album abroad. Külmale Maale (To the Cold Land) received international attention and recognition.

Their third album, Sputniks in Pectopah, a playful take on Cyrillic spelling meaning “Sputniks in the Restaurant” (1995), is a high-energy collection of popular Russian music from czarist times to Soviet anthems, but with a heavy punk twist. The band have released a total of 12 studio albums over their 39-year career, and they still have a lot to say about our society. Because that’s what punk is about.

Opening for JMKE will be another legendary punk band, Aadu Sitapea V Kolonn, which would playfully translate as Adolf Poopyhead’s Fifth Column. Aadu and the band love that translation.

Doors open at 20:00, and remaining tickets are on sale here.

 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Aadu Sitapea V Kolonn Concert Estonian Independence Events in Pärnu JMKE punk Rock Wunderbaar

24.7.2025 | Culture

Vanemuine Summer Concert

Vanemuine Summer Concert

For 15 years running, the Vanemuine Theatre in Tartu has held an outdoor concert featuring their symphonic orchestra. This … Read more

24.7.2025 | Culture

South Korean Opera at Saaremaa Opera Days

South Korean Opera at Saaremaa Opera Days

The 18th Saaremaa Opera Days, held in the courtyard of Kuressaare Castle, will begin on Tuesday, 22 July. This … Read more

23.7.2025 | Culture

“Which Festival?” Õllesummer

“Which Festival?” Õllesummer

Our next installment in the “Which Festival?” series is Õllesummer, or Beer Summer, a festival dating all the way … Read more

22.7.2025 | Culture

Tartu Buzz—Old Town Festival

Tartu Buzz—Old Town Festival

One of Tartu’s most coveted events begins later this week as the Old Town will come to life on … Read more

21.7.2025 | Culture

Exciting events in Estonia this week

Exciting events in Estonia this week

22 July Kadriorg 307th Anniversary Celebrations, Tallinn Kadriorg Park celebrates its 307-year history with a full day of cultural … Read more

20.7.2025 | Estonia

Farm Days—A Fun Family Event

Farm Days—A Fun Family Event

If you’re tired of the endless music festivals in Estonia and want something more unique, and even educational, then … Read more

19.7.2025 | Culture

Tartuff Open-Air Film Festival in Võru

Tartuff Open-Air Film Festival in Võru

PÖFF’s romance-themed film festival, Tartuff, is moving beyond Tartu this summer for the first time ever. On 31 July, … Read more

18.7.2025 | Culture

Viljandi Folk’s International Charm—32 Years Running

Viljandi Folk’s International Charm—32 Years Running

Various genres of music have their specific fanbases, for example not everyone likes country music, or heavy metal, but … Read more