Monday, October 30, 2006

Popular Russian Rock Stars

Andrei and Oleg have known each other since they were young, hopeful students of International Relations at the popular University of St. Petersburg. Their peculiar preference is music. Andrei taught himself to play the guitar, while Oleg had formal instruction from various institutions specializing in classical guitar.

Both twenty-five years of age, they had a wonderful path to success. They played together in 1998, composed songs in 1999, until their concert became the most talked-about event for the local press. The next day their flats were besieged by media practitioners waiting for interviews. They still can't believe what they had gone through, whenever they are reminded of their sky-rocketing glamor.

Andrei and Oleg have adopted one more musician, who completed their popular rock group: a three-man band with Andrei for voice and guitar, Oleg for voice and bass, and Ian for drums. Under the direction of their manager Macha, who's also very young at 22, they often get propositions to play in and around St. Petersburg. In fact, they have now converted an old family barnyard into a band studio, as they continue to entertain fans with their amazing mix of funk and rock music.

Their sound is motivated by early exposure to Red Hot Chili Peppers, Led Zeppelin, Jamiroquai, King Crimson, and Nirvana. If ever you want to hear their music and experience their presence, be sure to spot them play at the music presentation for the city's 300-year celebration.

Sunday, October 29, 2006

Famed Art History in Russia

Everybody who's gone to Russia will certainly enjoy this favorite character, which is famous all over the world. She has been strolling around Rome, London, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, and foreigners always enjoy her bright, inviting charm. She is Matriochka; her alluring nickname is derived from the famous Matriona.

This very attractive doll is certainly the most famous souvenir from Russia. She became part of the nation's history during the latter part of the nineteenth century. In fact, the influence for this doll came from Japan, which crafted dolls with the elongated faces of an exceptional sage.

On the other hand, of all the art forms, I can say that music is surely indispensable and is the biggest part in the daily norms of Russian people. Many people play musical instruments, while lots more consistently go to music plays. This cultural tendency is even more pronounced in St. Petersburg, where people are totally intense about music. Since its incredible imperial days, the city has already been the spectacular place of musical life in Russia. Attracting the greatest musicians and the most creative artists, this heritage is clearly evident all around the district, which is surrounded by lively bars and music clubs.