Regata
Regata | |
|---|---|
| Years active | 1983–early 1990s |
Regata (translated as Regatta) was a rock ensemble originating from Zagreb in 1983, during the era of Yugoslavia. The group, fronted by guitarist and lead vocalist Nikola "Koce" Gečević, gained prominence primarily through their 1983 hit single "Andrea".
History
The band Regata came into existence in 1983, founded by Nikola "Koce" Gečević (handling vocals and guitar), alongside bassist Dario Kumerle and drummer Željko Turčinović. Their name was inspired by the album Reggatta de Blanc by The Police. Prior to Regata, Gečević had performed as a guitarist with Drugi Način in the late 1970s and later established Žuta Minuta, which released a single album before disbanding.
Their first studio release, Noćna regata (meaning Night Regatta), appeared in 1984 under the Jugoton label. The production was managed by Željko Brodarić "Jappa", who also contributed backing vocals, while the visual artwork was created by Mirko Ilić. The album embraced a hard rock style accompanied by assertive lyrics, with the track "Andrea" achieving widespread popularity across the country. By the time of their sophomore album, Nikola Gečević remained the sole founding member, supported by new musicians Tomislav Šojat on bass, Gordan Milas on keyboards, and Dražen Kovač on drums. Released in 1986 through PGP-RTB, Spavaj mi vještice (Sleep, My Witch) preserved the band's characteristic sound and was again produced by Brodarić, who took lead vocals on the song "Zbogom pameti".
Their third record, Obuzdaj nagone (translated as Restrain Your Urges), came out in 1990 via Jugoton. This album featured a lineup consisting of Gečević, vocalist Alan Kolar, bassist Dragan Kokanović, keyboardist Zoran Kranjec, and drummer Krešimir Oreški. Despite its release, it attracted minimal attention from both the Yugoslav audience and media outlets, which ultimately resulted in the band's disbandment shortly thereafter.
Post breakup
Following Regata's dissolution, Gečević issued an instrumental tribute album of The Beatles songs titled The Beatles Instrumental in 1990. Subsequently, in 1992, Croatia Records released a compilation named Odabrano 1981 – 1992 (Selected Works 1981–1992).
Legacy
The track "Andrea" was later interpreted by Serbian and former Yugoslav rock artist Viktorija on her 2000 album Nostalgija (Nostalgia).
Studio albums
- Noćna regata (1984)
- Spavaj mi vještice (1986)
- Obuzdaj nagone (1990)
Compilations
- Odabrano 1981 – 1992 (1992)
Singles
- "Andrea" / "Za tebe" (1984)