Yasak Helva

Yasak Helva takes the stage at Komünite on January 15 at 9:30 PM. Formed by three musicians of Balkan descent whose paths crossed in İzmir, Yasak Helva reinterprets Anatolia’s multicultural musical heritage through what they describe as “Anatolian Fusion.” Their music brings together original compositions, traditional melodies, and songs from different geographies, shaped by electric cümbüş, çağlama, bass guitar, and drums. Having performed at renowned festivals including Sziget Festival, Carthage Jazz Festival, and Istanbul Jazz Festival, the band continued to reinterpret pieces from different musical traditions through their own musical language following the release of their debut album, Rektefe, in 2019. Released by Gülbaba Records in June 2025, their second album, Atamba, consists entirely of original compositions and represents a new chapter in Yasak Helva’s musical journey. Line-up: Salih Korkut Peker – Cümbüş, çağlama, fretless guitar, vocals Onur Ertem – Drums, percussion, electronics Hakan Görkem Bıyık – Bass guitar, vocals