Parni valjak – The rock legend that still fills halls
Parni valjak, a rock institution founded in Zagreb in 1975, has been continuously winning the hearts of the audience for years with its energetic performances and timeless hits. Their show and presence on the scene for decades have made them an indispensable part of the region's music history. 2025 / 2026
From the very beginning, the band cemented its reputation thanks to a boogie rock style and a strong stage presence, which set them apart from other groups of the eighties and nineties. The energy of those performances is still felt today, and fans and critics have not stopped praising them. 2025 / 2026
Parni valjak are known for hits that have marked generations — from “Glavom kroz zid”, through “Uhvati ritam” to ballads like “Jesen u meni” — songs that have remained permanently imprinted in people's hearts. Their presence in the media and the continuous reaction from the audience testify to their ongoing influence on the music scene. 2025 / 2026
They have performed at numerous concerts throughout the region, often in front of thousands of people, and their performances exude a professionalism and emotion that the audience does not forget. Parni valjak performs every concert with a special fervor and a special respect for their legacy. 2025 / 2026
Regardless of lineup changes, the band has remained faithful to its authentic sound and stage energy. The style that combines rock, new wave, pop rock, and boogie elements has resulted in a unique expression that makes it relevant even today. 2025 / 2026
Why you should see Parni valjak live?
- Spectacular performance – energetic performances and a recognizable sound that brings an indescribable atmosphere at every moment.
- Popular songs live – hits like “Uhvati ritam”, “Jesen u meni” and others that always delight the audience.
- Energetic connection with the audience – the band creates a special relationship with fans, approaching the audience and communicating with them.
- Visual and stage elements – concerts at the Pula Arena and Arena Zagreb are complemented by lighting effects and production that emphasizes emotion.
- Audience reactions and reviews – the audience regularly expresses delight, and reviews highlight the emotional power and live performance.
- Last performances and tours – the “50” tour celebrates half a century of activity through a large number of concerts across Croatia.
Parni valjak has built its career over decades on the basis of quality and dedication, not deviating from the idea that the audience should be offered an authentic musical experience. Their consistency and emotion in every performance are the reason why they are still relevant today among generations who have been listening to them since their first albums, but also among a younger audience who discovered them through their parents or thanks to the popularity of domestic rock. 2025 / 2026
One of the key elements of the band's longevity was the strength of its lineup. Long-time frontman Aki Rahimovski left an indelible mark on the region's music history with his vocals. His specific voice was a synonym for emotion and intensity, and the songs he performed carry that special weight even today. After his death, the band decided to continue working, preserving the legacy and emotion that Aki had built for decades. 2025 / 2026
After Aki's departure, the role of vocalist was taken over by Igor Drvenkar, a young singer with a strong vocal expression who very quickly established a connection with the audience. Although the challenge was great, Drvenkar proved to be a worthy successor who, while respecting Aki's legacy, gives the band new energy. It is precisely this freshness combined with the experience of the other members that has strengthened Parni valjak's position as an indispensable part of the concert scene. 2025 / 2026
The rest of the band consists of experienced musicians who have defined the sound of Parni valjak over the years: Husein Hasanefendić – Hus on guitar, one of the founders and the creative brain of the band; Zoran Cvetković – Zok on guitar; Berislav Blažević – Bero on keyboards; Zlatko Miksić – Fuma on bass guitar; Damir Šomen on drums and Ana Vurcer as a backing vocalist. Each member brings their own dimension to the group's sound, and together they form an extremely compact and well-rehearsed lineup. 2025 / 2026
Their musical opus includes more than ten studio albums, numerous compilations, and live releases. Songs like “Sve još miriše na nju”, “Zastave”, “Prokleta nedjelja” or “Stranica dnevnika” have become evergreens of the domestic rock scene. Not only because of the melody and production, but also because of the lyrics that speak of love, transience, social issues, and personal turmoil. It is precisely because of this emotional depth that their music has a strong resonance with audiences of all generations. 2025 / 2026
By introducing more modern production elements in later years, Parni valjak managed to maintain its authenticity without moving away from its roots. Whether they were performing in more intimate clubs or on large festival stages, the audience always knew what to expect: top-notch musicianship, emotion, and a completely dedicated performance. 2025 / 2026
Music critics often point out that Parni valjak has the ability to convey nostalgia as well as relevance, which is a rarity on the music scene. Their songs do not become obsolete – on the contrary, they gain meaning over the years as the context of time changes. That is why their tours always arouse great interest, and concert tickets are sold out weeks in advance. 2025 / 2026
For many fans, a Parni valjak concert is not just a musical event, but an emotional journey through time. They share musical moments with the audience that have marked important moments in their lives – from first loves to the present day. This connection between the performer and the audience is the basis of their persistence and the reason why they are still at the top of the domestic rock scene. 2025 / 2026
Their current tour “Parni valjak – 50 years” has only further strengthened their importance on the music map. The tour includes halls and open spaces like Arena Zagreb, Pula Arena, Šalata, as well as other locations that gather thousands of fans. At these concerts, the band shows incredible fitness and a desire to still have something to say and show the audience. 2025 / 2026
The experience of coming to a Parni valjak concert already begins with the planning — finding the perfect location for accommodation near the event venue marks the line between a pleasant preparation and a stressful arrival. The accommodation provides an opportunity for a calm look at the surroundings, an early dinner, and rest before the musical climax. Arena Zagreb, located at Ulica Vice Vukova 8, is often the scene of numerous concerts and events, so the availability of nearby accommodation is key for a relaxed experience.
Parni valjak – How to prepare for the performance?
- Plan to arrive on time – due to the crowds, trams and buses to Arena Zagreb can wait for hours; it is recommended to arrive an hour or two earlier.
- Research accommodation options nearby – hotel choices like art'otel Zagreb, Hotel Magdalena, or Sundial Boutique Hotel offer comfort and shorten the journey from the accommodation to the entrance. accommodation might be just what you need.
- Mobility – if you are coming by car, check the parking options near the Arena; if not, public transport in Zagreb is well-developed, especially tram and bus lines towards Pleso and the Central Zagreb zone.
- Pre-concert ritual – breakfast or coffee nearby, a light snack, and a walk around the venue create the right atmosphere before the evening spectacle.
Interesting facts about Parni valjak you might not have known
- Informal “hotel homes” on tours – Aki pointed out that the band doesn't look for glamour but a feeling of warmth and comfort: “We choose hotels where we will feel at home… we don't need luxury, but to feel good”.
- The timing situation – an anecdotal moment from the beginning of their career is related to the chorus in the song “Od motela do motela”: the band found themselves on stage "waiting" – the frontman in one part, the band in another, while the audience listened confused, but with a smile. “Stop, let's start from the beginning!” was the solution they applied, and the audience accepted it with enthusiasm.
What to expect at the performance?
- Set list – expected songs like “Jesen u meni”, “Uhvati ritam”, “Sve još miriše na nju”, “Glavom kroz zid” and other classics of the domestic rock scene.
- Special performances and guest appearances – the band is known for acoustic moments and improvisations that may include guests, depending on the location and ambiance of the concert.
- Audience composition – a colorful mix of generations: from those who have followed the band since the eighties, to those who sing choruses learned from their parents, to younger people who discovered the band through the pandemic nostalgia for live performances.
- Atmosphere – expect an emotional charge, togetherness, and sometimes even tears. Parni valjak knows how to create moments that radiate warmth and musical connection.
The aroma of emotions is also brought by details such as the band's interaction with the audience – Hus often comments on the song lyrics, and the frontman evokes stories and memories, which gives the concert additional value. The audience feels like a part of that common story.
The moment the lights go down and the first notes hit the air, everyone present feels that this is more than a concert – it is a celebration of music, memories, and togetherness that Parni valjak – rightfully so – cherishes and gives meaning to its performances. accommodation located near the event venue ensures that you experience all these moments without stress and with maximum concentration on the musical experience.
One of the most common comments from the audience after a Parni valjak concert is that they exceeded all expectations. Although many of their hits have been known for decades, their live performance gives each one a new life. Songs that were listened to on the radio or via streaming services, in a concert context become sincere, deep, and charged with emotions that sometimes surprise even the performers themselves. 2025 / 2026
On stage, the band offers not just music, but a story. Each performance has a dramaturgy — from the opening bars, through the climax of the concert, to the final encore, everything has its place and meaning. Visitors often witness how waves of emotion alternate during the concert, from excitement to nostalgic moments, with songs that have become part of the collective memory. 2025 / 2026
The stage production, although not overly lavish, is focused on creating an atmosphere. In recent performances, a combination of ambient lighting and dynamic light effects is used to highlight key moments. There is not much pyrotechnics, because Parni valjak does not strive for visual spectacle at all costs — they want the music to remain in the foreground. 2025 / 2026
Special attention is also paid to the acoustics of the space where the concert is held. For example, in the Pula Arena, the natural acoustics of the ancient amphitheater allow for an impressive resonance of sound, while the Arena Zagreb is equipped with modern sound systems, which ensures a high level of sound quality in every corner of the hall. For visitors coming from other cities, it is advisable to book accommodation in time to avoid crowds and unnecessary stress. 2025 / 2026
One of the few groups that has survived in its original spirit for so many decades, Parni valjak nurtures a closeness with its audience. This connection is felt not only in the songs, but also in the spontaneous moments between them — when the band members share thoughts, anecdotes, or simply sentences that emotionally engage the audience even more. It is not uncommon for the audience to take over the entire chorus of a song, while the band stops and just watches, leaving the stage to thousands of voices. 2025 / 2026
For guests coming from outside of Zagreb, staying near the concert venue makes the whole experience easier. The proximity of accommodation facilities allows for arrival without rushing, the possibility of a quick return after the concert, as well as enjoying other city amenities. Along with the musical event, guests often plan additional sightseeing, making the concert part of a wider cultural weekend. 2025 / 2026
One of the most talked-about moments at recent concerts was when Igor Drvenkar, the band's new vocalist, performed “Jesen u meni” with only piano accompaniment. The silence that fell over the hall was the best indicator of the respect and emotion the audience feels for that song and its history. Without any special effect or announcement, that moment became the highlight of the evening. 2025 / 2026
Fans often point out that Parni valjak performances are not just concerts, but experiences that are remembered for years. Many come multiple times to different locations — Zagreb, Pula, Osijek, Rijeka — because each performance has its own specificity and energy. Summer outdoor concerts are especially praised, where the evening atmosphere combined with the warm air creates an almost magical impression. On such occasions, accommodation near the venue can make the difference between a relaxed evening and a logistical nightmare. 2025 / 2026
The band also sometimes introduces surprises into the set list — from performances of rarer songs to covers of foreign rock classics in their own style. Some concerts also include guest musicians, often a surprise even for the audience itself. This makes each performance unique. 2025 / 2026
An important piece of advice for everyone coming to a Parni valjak concert for the first time is to bring someone with whom they have shared these songs – a friend, parent, partner – because it is this shared experience that makes the experience even stronger. Many songs carry personal memories and connections, and a concert can deepen them even further. 2025 / 2026
It is also worth mentioning the production team behind the tour – technicians, lighting, sound engineers, organizers – all the people whose work allows each evening to run flawlessly. Although they are not in the foreground, their contribution is very much felt, especially when the audience enjoys it without a single interruption or technical problem. 2025 / 2026
Coming to a Parni valjak concert is not just an outing – it's an event. All aspects of the organization, performance, ambiance, and audience merge into a whole that remains in memory. Those who come once, very often return – some for the third or fourth time. With good preparation, quality accommodation and a good mood, a Parni valjak concert remains one of those experiences that are talked about. 2025 / 2026