The Hardkiss are an independent band from Kyiv, playing since 2011. They took part in the Ukrainian Eurovision qualifiers in 2016 and came 2nd at the national level. The band plays a combination of seemingly mismatched elements: heavy arrangements, melodic lines, deep lyrics and Yulia Sanina's unique soulful vocals. All the group's songs are authored by members Yulia Sanina and Valeria Bebko.