NOKA is composed of three women of Basque descent from Chino, California: Andréa Bidart, Begoña Echeverria, and Cathy Petrissans. NOKA sings contemporary and traditional Basque songs, with a special interest in those about women. NOKA is a familiar form of address, used only in speaking to women. It literally means to speak familiarly or informally to women, and was used throughout the Basque Country when addressing women or girls with whom one felt konfiantza (trust). Use of “noka” began to decline in the 19th century, though speakers from some small villages (many of whom immigrated to Chino) continue to use it. NOKA hopes to revive interest in songs about women – especially those using noka forms – through its music... Basque singer-songwriter Mikel Markez starting playing guitar, writing songs and performing at the age of fifteen. He has performed and collaborated with artists such as Mikel Laboa and Benito Lertxundi and has performed in Europe, North and South America, Cuba and Venezuela.