"Vovne" is a wide-ranging musical collaborative, centered in the Siberian cities of Tomsk and Kemerovo. Across considerable distances, a shared philosophy comes slowly into view, born of late Soviet experimentation.
Music Kollektiv is a Moscow-based organization, often dedicated to minimal and deep/dub techno. We look at some of the St. Petersburg members in MK and their search for grand significance within spartan structures.
Four releases from several Russian and Ukrainian towns this week consider the role of public, "useful" song. At a time when civic anthems might make sense, these artists are too busy coping with daily challenges.
Some recent instrumental recordings have invested much energy in a certain form of modesty. By toying with irony and even anonymity, four introspective performers magnify the object of their attention.
Two labels - from Moscow and Omsk - announce a handful of new releases this week. They all concern some vague, enduring lacuna in modern society and whether Russia's endless expanse offers an alternative.
A number of producers from suburban Moscow and Krasnodar strive to bridge the gap between daydreams and actuality. As everyday experience refuses to play along, the scale of romantic wistfulness only grows...
These ensembles from Vladivostok, Lukhovitsy (Moscow), and Zaporozh'e (Ukraine) are bound by their chosen, rather bleak imagery. Tales of a stormy ocean and outer space predominate; both have their lonely residents, too.
Four young jazz/R&B artistes, based in Moscow, consider both their biography and chosen styles. In a realm where hard work and hope often guarantee little, this music is seen in terms of precious consolation.
Three Belarusian friends and colleagues have new releases on display. Their enthusiasm for techno or a related strictness emerges against the backdrop of some awful unpredictability in local history.
Four new recordings from bass and hip-hop producers touch upon the issue of standards. Worried by the growing popularity - and falling quality - of much bass music, these artists ponder a need for new values or virtues.
