A handful of ambient instrumentals from Yekaterinburg this month are inspired by a particular motif: the timidity of Russian foxes. That same symbol gradually moves far from its quiet point of origin.
The well-respected MP3 blog Motherland has been asked to compile regular playlists by Moscow's Afisha magazine. Even among the first artists, a collective worldview starts to take shape.
A couple of new rock recordings find lyrical inspiration in the traditions of Soviet science. Other related publications look back further into the past, either to more introspective or theological themes.
The Kiev ensemble Marakesh has recently moved to Berlin. That physical relocation, however, is framed with some telling discussions of virtual or ideal processes - such as the workings of fate.
All the way from melodic britpop to psychedelia and math rock, these new publications question the appeal of wordy, social norms. Little by little, they mark a retreat from both language and polished grandeur.
The Snapsounds studio in Lithuania is committed to the production of HD video that captures both the past and future of local bands. The mere existence of that service hints at a wealth of PR challenges for the artists themselves.
Several of these performers refrain from any promotional work; there seems little point in struggling against material obstacles, be they financial or technical. Champions of hope, therefore, must work very hard.
A new label has appeared in Vladivostok with the maximally simple name of "Te." The first publication is a sampler album that brings together six local bands, whilst simultaneously fostering a common outlook.
"A Model Kit" is the name of a one-man, neoclassical project from Moscow. Some of the creative difficulties faced by that composer extend to considerably noisier collectives. Professional challenges are widespread.
Three of these projects epitomize a very English melancholy or turn instead to the dark and fuzzy registers of witch-house. The fourth locks itself in a bathroom until somebody starts writing music.
