For decades the unlikely union of Star Wars and an accordion could only mean one thing: a Weird Al parody about the galaxy far, far away, like “The Saga Begins” and “Yoda.” But his monopoly on that very specific musical market is no more, after this surprisingly great rendition of the “Imperial March” played with accordions.
This unexpected performance of John Williams’ iconic number from The Empire Strikes Back comes from the Ukrainian duo of Vasyl Kravchuk and Victor Kravchuk, who proved that while the right track can even make an instrument as pleasant as an accordion sound sinister, an accordion can soften the most evil-sounding song.
Didn’t believe us? Your lack of faith is disturbing.
No, actually, it’s not. That caught us off guard too, especially the great flourish at the end. We didn’t realize we needed a polka-esque take on the “Imperial March” in our lives, but the universe seems a little brighter now that we have it. (Thanks to Laughing Squid for bringing it to our attention.)
Just as amazing as how much we enjoyed this is the fact that the two played it in March at the IVth All-Ukrainian “Day of Ukrainian Bayan and Accordion” Festival, meaning there’s an entire event dedicated to this wondrous, silly instrument for people to experience.
Do they have travel packages available to this?
Because now when we hear “Star Wars” and “accordion” we’re going to think of two things: Weird Al and Ukraine. Which makes as much sense as playing the “Imperial March” on two accordions.
What other cinematic song would you like to hear covered on an accordion? Use our comments section below to let us know what number you want to hear played.
Featured Image: Lucasfilm
Image: Kurylenko
