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About artists from Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States

Artists of Cyrillic alphabet

5 STIHIY

Outline

Sound Recordings

FENIKS (PHOENIX)
This is the debut album. Valeria Romanova who is a female vocalist has sung well. All music has been made by a guitarist Sergey Medvedev. It's melodious and cool. Especially, I like "Iskuplenie" (Expiation) and "Noch' pyati stikhiy" (Night of five elements). The last tune is a radio version of the title tune. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
PEPEL I SNEG (ASHES AND SNOW)
A guitarist, a bassist and a drummer have changed and a keyboard player has added as a member. They play good melodic metal. Especially, I like "Vremya" (Time) and "Pyat' Stikhiy" (Five Elements). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2011)

33

Outline

Sound Recording

Ves' etot mir (All this world)
This is the official debut album of the group "33". All songs have been sung in Russian. Their styles will be able to call gothic or pop rock. Elena Popova who is a female vocalist is a good singer. Her vocals and sad melodies have beautiful atmosphere. And the heavy melody of the 4th song "Verish'" (Believe) is also great! As a whole, it's a pity that the length of songs is short. And this album also contains a video clip of "Osen'" (Autumn). Released from MALS (Russia) on CD of CD Plus format in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2004)
Another review: It's So Easy (Japanese)

ABORDAZH

Outline

Sound Recording

adskiy shtorm (hellish storm)
The debut album. They play heavy metal and power metal. Some speedy parts are good. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

AEDRA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Tayni Zerkal (Secrets of Mirrors)
The second album. The music and lyrics are by guitarists. They play melodic metal and it's not bad. But vocals are weak a little and I feel that their music is halfway music. And I hear that a violin, a flute and a saxophone have been also used. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Pavel SHELUKHIN] (July/August 2010)
Vechnost' Nazad (Eternity is back)
This single consists of 2 songs. It's good. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

AELLA

Outline

Sound Recording

AELLA
The debut album. Members are all girls and they play good heavy metal. All lyrics are in Russian. This album contains cover songs of ARIA and FIRST AID. Released from CD-MAXIMUM on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2011)

ALEXEY STRIKE

Outline

Sound Recording

Vremya polnoy luni (Time of full moon)
This is a solo album by a MASTER's guitarist, Alexey Strike. As guest musicians, Lexx (MASTER), Mikhail Selishev (ex-MASTER), Maxim Samosvat (EPIDEMIA, MECHANICAL POET), Artyom Stirov (ex-SERGEY MAVRIN) and Alik Granovsky (MASTER) have taken part in this recording. The music isn't extreme. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2006)

ALISA

Outline

Sound Recordings

TRINADTSAT' (13)
This album consists of 13 best songs. Many songs that were created in 1980's have been contained. Those style is art rock with elements of progressive rock. But I'm bored. Released from SOYUZ (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: **
SEYCHAS POZDNEE, TYEM TI DUMAESH' (NOW IT'S LATER THAN YOU THINK)
This is a concept album. Both of hard songs and slow ones are good. Especially, I like "RODINA" (HOMELAND), "NEBO SLAVYAN" (THE SLAV'S SKY), "BEZ KRESTA" (WITHOUT A CROSS) and "INOK, VOIN I SHUT" (MONK, WARRIOR AND JESTER). Released from Producer's Center of Igor Matvienko (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
PUL'S KHRANITELYA DVEREY LABIRINTA (THE PULSE OF THE LABYRINTH'S DOORS GUARDIAN)
This album was released in the 25th year since they formed the band. The music is good rock. Especially, I like "Solntse na blyudtse" (The sun on a saucer), "Peresmotri" (Reexamine), "Aprel'" (April) and "Vse, chto ya khochu" (All what I want). The limited A5 digibook edition of CD Plus format contains a video clip. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
TVYORDIY ZNAK
The album title is Russian 28th character called "hard sign". The title song is very cool! And I like "Kren" (List), "V put'" (To the way) and "Dozhd' i ya" (Rain and I). The other is also good. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD of the limited A5 digibook edition in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

AMARANTH

Outline

Sound Recording

na zabitikh beregakh (on the forgotten coast)
This single consists of 3 songs. The music doesn't have elements of symphonic music very much and it's normal. The last song "Khrustal'niy mir" (The crystal world) is a bonus track. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

anatoliy krupnov

Outline

Sound Recording

postalbum
This 2CD was released after Anatoliy Krupnov who was a leader of Chorniy Obelisk has died. And these consist unavailable 20 songs. CD#1 don't contain only rock songs, but also songs like rap and blues. This one was recorded when he was in life and we can have Krupnov's fill of a bass and vocals. On CD#2, all lyrics and music are by Krupnov. But this was recorded on January 1998 after he has died. On this one, Krupnov has played a bass of 3 songs and vocals are by other ones. Both CDs contain many calm songs, but I like CD#1 more than CD#2. Released from real records (Russia) on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

ANDEM

Outline

Sound Recordings

Mayatnik Zhizni (Pendulum Of Life)
This is the debut album of the melodic metal band ANDEM featuring a female vocalist Yuliana Savchenko. Mastering is by Andy Horn at The Red Room studio in Germany. Yuliana's clear vocals are good. The melodious music isn't also bad. The last tune "Angel, Demon i Ya" (Angel, Demon and I) is a bonus track. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Anjeli K.] (July/August 2008)
DOCH' LUNNOGO SVETA (MOONLIGHT DAUGHTER)
Mixing and mastering are by Andy Horn at The Red Room Studio in Germany. This album is very powerful and the style is melodic power metal. Artyom Stirov (STIROV, ex-SERGEY MAVRIN) has taken part in the second song "KHRANITEL' MECHEY" (Guardian of Swords) as a vocalist. Also Ilya Alexandrov (FACTOR STRAHA) has taken part in the sixth and seventh songs as a vocalist. And all songs of the Internet singles have been contained in this album. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (May/June 2009)
GRAAL'
This EP consists of 2 new songs and 2 re-recorded songs. I don't know the title's meaning, but this EP is very good! Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

ANTARES

Outline

Sound Recording

PROMO 2008
This album consists of 6 tunes in Russian. They play melodic power metal featuring female vocals. This album is normal. Released on the Internet in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

ARANRUT

Outline

Sound Recording

D'YAVOL'SKIE KRIL'YA (DEVILISH WINGS)
The debut album. They play heavy metal with elements of symphonic metal. The music isn't good very much. Released on the Internet in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: **

ARDA

Outline

Sound Recordings

O SKITANIYAKH VECHNYKH I O ZEMLE (ABOUT ETERNAL WANDERINGS AND ABOUT THE EARTH)
This is the first album of ARDA. ARDA is the band featuring Pavel Okunev who is a vocalist of ex-EPIDEMIA. This album is filled with speedy sounds. But any tunes aren't very great. The last song "FLY AWAY" is a bonus track. This CD was released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format with a catalog of CD-MAXIMUM in 2004. (Only for sale in Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States.)
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2004)
EKZORTSIST (EXORCIST)
This album is a mini CD that contains 6 tunes. A keyboard player and a bassist have changed, but sounds are powerful. I like the title tune and the last tune "TOL'KO PIL'" (ONLY DUST). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
MORE ISCHEZAYUSHCHIKH VREMYON (THE SEA OF DISAPPEARING TIMES)
What's happening? The half of this album is bad. But after that the music isn't bad. I like "Bez Otveta" (Without An Answer). The limited edition of digibook format has contained a live video clip "Ekzortsist" (Exorcist) as a bonus. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2008)
V NEBO (TO THE SKY)
This is the Internet single that consists of two new songs and two cover songs. The style is modern melodic metal. The first song "Nebesa Opustosheniya" (Heavens of the Devastation) is good. But the next song "Ne Ver' Slezam (feat. Shura)" (Don't Believe Tears) is normal because vocals aren't good very much. In the third title song, the intro is magnificence, but it's a pity that I don't like vocals. The last song "Beat The Bastards (The Exploited Cover)" is speedy thrash metal and I like it. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
KHOLOD (COLD)
This is the Internet single that consists of 4 songs. The style is modern melodic metal. The first title song is normal. The next song "Kolibel'naya" (Cradle song) is a modern song and I'm not interested in it very much. The third song "Lezvie sna" (Blade of dream) is also modern song, but it's not bad. The last song is "Tol'ko pil' 2010" (Only dust 2010) is very good. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

ARGIR

Outline

Sound Recording

SVET SEREBRA (LIGHT OF SILVER)
This album has a catch phrase "For those who already listened enough to all ARIA's albums". In fact, this is filled with vocals and melodies remind me of ARIA. Guitars' solos are cool! This album is characterized by light and pop melodies. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) and ARIA RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

ARIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Maniya Velichiya (Megalomania)
This is the first album. "ETO ROK" (IT IS DOOM) and "TORERO" are cool! The first released year is 1985. And in 1994, this has been rereleased from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
S KEM TI? (WHOM ARE YOU WITH?)
I feel a little changes of effect. I hear that "VOLYA I RAZUM" (WILL AND REASON) is always played in ARIA's concerts. "IKAR" (ICARUS) is cool! The first released year is 1986. And in 1994, this has been rereleased from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
GEROY ASFAL'TA (HERO OF ASPHALT)
In this album, members have been changed largely. This third album is the best!! Especially, "NA SLUZHBE SILI ZLA" (SERVING EVIL FORCE) and "BALLADA O DREVNERUSSKOM VOINE" (BALLAD ABOUT ANCIENT RUSSIAN WARRIOR)! And "GEROY ASFAL'TA" (HERO OF ASPHALT) is a great speedy tune! The first released year is 1987. And in 1994, this has been rereleased from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
IGRA S OGNYOM (PLAY WITH FIRE)
I feel big changes of effect. "BOY PRODOLZHAETSA" (FIGHT IS GOING ON) is very cool!! All tunes is very great!! The first released year is 1989. And in 1994, this has been rereleased from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
KROV' ZA KROV' (BLOOD FOR BLOOD)
"PROSHCHAY, NORFOLK!" (FAREWELL, NORFOLK!) is very cool!! And "KROV' ZA KROV'" (BLOOD FOR BLOOD) is dramatic! After this album, Sergey Mavrin (guitars) is gone from the band. The first released year is 1991. And in 1994, this has been rereleased from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
NOCH' KOROCHE DNYA (NIGHT IS SHORTER THAN DAY)
A new guitarist Sergey Terentyev added in the band. "ZVER'" (BEAST) has a little change from the previous style. The guitar play in "NOCH' KOROCHE DNYA" (NIGHT IS SHORTER THAN DAY) is cool!! Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
SDELANO V ROSSII (MADE IN RUSSIA)
This live album consists of two CDs. The first disk contains many tunes from the sixth album. Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
LEGENDY RUSSKOVO ROKA (RUSSIAN ROCK LEGENDS)
This is the ARIA's version in "LEGENDY RUSSKOVO ROKA" (RUSSIAN ROCK LEGENDS) series from MOROZ Records in Moscow. This album is a compilation. "DAY RUKU MNE" (GIVE ME A HAND) is cool! You can know ARIA's history. Released on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
GENERATOR ZLA (GENERATOR OF EVIL)
This ninth album contains some very heavy tunes, "OTSHEL'NIK" (THE HERMIT), etc. "ZAKAT" (SUNSET) is a great ballad. "DEZERTIR" (DESERTER) and "OBMAN" (DECEPTION) are very cool!! Dubinin has sung on "PITKA TISHINOI" (TORTURE OF SILENCE). Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
TRIBUTE TO HARLEY-DAVIDSON
This album was created in memory of having good relationship with Harley-Davidson. This album is a single, which contains four tunes. The first track is the data for a computer, you can install Harley-Davidson catalog. And its patch is available on the ARIA's official site. The CD-DA chapter begins from the second track. "Probil chas" (Time has come) is a cover from Manowar, "Bespechny angel" (Easy angel) is a cover from Golden Earring. All songs are sung in Russian. Released in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
LUCHSHIE PESNI (BEST SONGS)
This album consists of two CDs. Released in 1999.
2000 I ODNA NOCH' (2000 AND ONE NIGHT)
This album was released as a present of 2000 to ARIA's fans in the end of 1999. This album is a compilation, dedicated to "love". And it contains two new ballads. The one of them is "Poteryanniy ray" (Lost paradise) and another is "Kto ti?" (Who are you?). Both are good ballads. The last tune "Zakat" (Sunset) has been arranged by an acoustic guitar at the intro, and it's only this album. The artistic design of this album is by Igor Lobanov from END ZONE. Released from Classic Company (Russia) on CD in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Poteryanniy ray (Lost paradise)
This is a single, which consists of 3 tracks. All tracks are "Poteryanniy ray" (Lost paradise). The first track is a video clip on the QuickTime format and you can play it on Windows 95 or later and QuickTime 4 or later. You can listen to the performance with an orchestra, but can't watch the movies of the performance itself very much. This video clip is artistic and great! The CD-DA chapter begins from the second track. The second track is by only ARIA and the third track is the performance by ARIA and an orchestra. Released in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
GRAND COLLECTION
This is the ARIA's version in "GRAND COLLECTION" series from MOROZ Records in Moscow. This is an album collected their past 13 songs. Almost all songs represent the first half of the ARIA's history. And the sound quality is good. Released on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Khimera (Chimera)
This album is located on the line of the album "GENERATOR ZLA" (GENERATOR OF EVIL) and has mature sounds. But I don't feel powerfulness very much. It seems to me that this is getting near a rock album. I like "Put' v nikuda" (A way to emptiness) and "Oskolok l'da" (Splinter of ice). Oleg Mishin from END ZONE has taken part in this album as a flute player. Released from Classic Company (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
DAL'NOBOYSHCHIKI-2 SAUNDTREK K KOMP'YUTERNOY IGRE (RIG'N'ROLL-2 SOUNDTRACK TO THE COMPUTER GAME)
This album is the soundtrack for the computer game called "Rig'n'Roll-2". All tunes are instrumental, but all of them are very great!! And Alik Granovsky, who was one of early members and is a drummer, also has taken part in this album. Keyboards also have been used in this album. This album is really great!! Released from Grammofon records (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
DeLuxe Collection LIMITED EDITION
This is the ARIA's version in "DeLuxe Collection LIMITED EDITION" series from DREAM Sound Studio in Russia. This album consists of 16 songs. The sound quality of early songs is bad. And some of songs don't have the official title. This album has half different compositions in comparison with the album "GRAND COLLECTION". I recommend "GRAND COLLECTION" than this album. Released on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
SHTIL' (CALM)
This is the last compilation album by five members that they had created the long history of ARIA. After recording this album, Valery Kipelov (vocals), Sergey Terentyev (guitar) and Alexander Manyakin (drums) is gone from ARIA. And three mens formed the new group called KIPELOV with Sergey Mavrin (guitar) and Alexey Kharkov (bass). Well, in this album, the first title song was recorded with U.D.O.. Almost of the others were created since 1999. And this album also contains songs in the album "TRIBUTE TO HARLEY-DAVIDSON". And this also contains "MASHINA CMERTI" (MACHINE OF DEATH) by Terentyev. As a bonus track, "DAY RUKU MNE" (GIVE ME A HAND), too. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Nastya BAKHMETYEVA] (January/February 2003)
KOLIZEY (COLOSSEUM)
This single contains three tunes. And as the new members of ARIA, Artur Berkut (vocals), Sergey Popov (guitar) and Maxim Udarov (drums) was added. Artur Berkut is an ex-vocalist of Avtograf and MAVRICK, Sergey Popov is an ex-guitarist of MASTER and Maxim Udarov is an ex-drummer of ARIA. (Maxim Udarov took part in the third album as a drummer.) The first song is a new song "KOLIZEY" (COLOSSEUM). This is an orthodox heavy metal tune. And the second tune "ANTIKHRIST" (ANTICHRIST) is an instrumental one that was recorded with the international symphony orchestra "GLOBALIS". And the last song is "OBMAN" (DECEPTION). I think this single will be a promotion of the new ARIA. I expect their next full-length album. Released from Aria Records (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
v poiskakh novoy zhertvi ... (searching for new victims ...)
These live albums consist of two CDs. "I" contains 12 tunes and "II" contains 11 tunes. These albums contain tunes when Valery Kipelov, Sergey Terentyev and Alexander Manyakin were ARIA's members. Released from Classic Company (Russia) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
KRESHCHENIE OGNYOM (CHRISTENING BY FIRE)
The first full-length album for the newborn ARIA. This was recorded at ARIA Records between January and April, 2003. The music style is more aggressive than the album "Khimera" (Chimera). This album is cool!! But I think Artur Berkut is a less unique vocalist less than Valery Kipelov. And a video track "KOLIZEY" (COLOSSEUM) has been contained by the MPEG format. Released from Mysteria Publishing (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
MISSIYA (MISSION)
This album contains the past ARIA's songs. Tracks 1-4 have been taken from the album "KRESHCHENIE OGNEM" (CHRISTENING BY FIRE). Tracks 5-6 have been recorded with the symphony orchestra "GLOBALIS". Tracks 7-10 have been recorded at the festival "Friday 13th" in February 2003. Released from Mysteria Publishing (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
CHUZHOY (ALIEN)
This is a single CD that consists of three audio tracks and one animation video clip. The first tune is a new title one and cool. The second tune is a concert version of "Tam visoko" (There high). In this tune, Artur Berkut has also played a piano. And in the next tune "Volya i razum" (Will and reason), five vocalists and two guitarists have taken part in this tune. One of guitarists is Sergey Mavrin. A video clip is "Tam visoko" (There high). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2006)
ARMAGEDDON
This album is the vein of an album "KRESHCHENIE OGNYOM" (CHRISTENING BY FIRE). I like "POSLEDNIY ZAKAT" (THE LAST SUNSET), "MECHENIY ZLOM" (MARKED WITH EVIL), "STRAZH IMPERII" (A GUARDIAN OF A EMPEROR) and "TVOY DEN'" (YOUR DAY). And this also contains a song "CHUZHOY" (ALIEN). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2006)
POLE BITVI (BATTLE FIELD)
This single consists of 3 tunes. The first new title tune isn't extreme, but very good. The second tune "NA KRIL'YAKH VETRA" (ON THE WINGS OF WIND) is heavy metal arrangement of "Knyaz' Igor" (Prince Igor) by A. Borodin (1833-87). It's instrumental, but good. The last tune "POPURRI" (HETEROGENEOUS SONG) is a mixed recording of "ARIA 20 YEARS" concert at Luzhniki Sport Palace in Moscow on October 8, 2005. This consists of ARIA's old songs, so I like this very much! Self-released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
feniks (phoenix)
A vocalist Artur Berkut left the band, so a new vocalist Mikhail Zhitnyakov has added. This album is good! I like "CHORNIY KVADRAT" (BLACK SQUARE) and "BOY BEZ PRAVIL" (THE BATTLE WITHOUT RULES). Released from Studio SOYUZ (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Image Material

ZHIVOY OGON' (LIVING FIRE)
This DVD contains a concert in Moscow on November 18, 2003. The format of DVD is NTSC. "PART 1" contains 11 tunes and a slide show. "PART 2" contains 9 tunes and a documentary film on photographing. A camera work is good. I like PART 2 than PART 1. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2005)
PLYASKA ADA (DANCE OF HELL)
This limited edition of 2 DVDs contains a concert in Moscow on November 10, 2006 and a documentary film of "ARMAGEDDON TOUR". All songs except 3 songs are ones after Kipelov has left the band. Their stage isn't bad. The intro is "Carmina Burana" of Carl Orff. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on limited digibook DVD in 2007. (Only for sale in Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States.)
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2007)
VSE KLIPI (ALL CLIPS)
This DVD contains ARIA's video clips made between 1988 and 2006. The format of DVD is PAL and region free. Old clips are rare. This DVD also contains video clips on the official Web site before. The limited digibook edition contains 13 clips and 4 bonus ones. In the first 3 clips you can watch young Sergey Mavrin. In 9 clips in 13 clips the vocalist is Valery Kipelov. And Udo Dirkschnider has also sung in the 8th clips "SHTIL'" (CALM). Bonus clips are concert videos Harley-Davidson presents. This bonus has been taken from "GENERATOR ZLA" (GENERATOR OF EVIL) Tour in 1999. As a whole of DVD, all songs are very good! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
GEROY ASFAL'TA: 20 LET (HERO OF ASPHALT: 20 YEARS)
This limited edition of 2 DVDs contains a concert at "Luzhniki" Sports Palace in Moscow on April 3, 2008 in Disk #1 and stories by members at that time, photos of the concert of Disk #1 and live videos in Stavropol in 1988, as a bonus in Disk #2. The concert of Disk #1 is very great! From the 10th songs, Valery Kipelov appears! And all songs of the ARIA's third album have been played. Sergey Mavrin has also taken part in two songs. I'm happy that I can watch ARIA's performance of the third album, but Valery Kipelov's vocals are no young any more. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on limited digibook DVD in 2008. (Only for sale in Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States.)
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

ARKONA

Outline

Sound Recordings

VOZROZHDENIE (REVIVAL)
This first album was recorded at CDM Records studio between 2003 and 2004. And as guest musicians, Les'yar (BUTTERFLY TEMPLE), Lazar and Kniaz' (ROSSOMAHAAR) have taken part in this recording. The main vocalist, Masha, is a woman. This music is powerful and speedy. Keyboards have been also used. That's great! Especially, I like symphonic sounds of the 4th song very much!! Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
LEPTA (THE CONTRIBUTION)
This second album was recorded in autumn 2004 at CDM Records. Guest musicians as the same as the previous album have taken part in this recording. And in this album, Masha plays a flute. But I think sounds are less than the previous album. Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
VO SLAVU VELIKIM (FOR THE GLORY OF GREAT)
This third album was recorded between June and August in 2005 at CDM Records. In this time, many musicians have taken part in this recording. And many instruments have been used and the music became rich. Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Ot Serdtsa k Nebu (From The Heart To The Sky)
This 4th album was recorded between May and September in 2007 at CDM Records. Many musicians have taken part in the recording and many instruments have been used. This album is just Slavonic Pagan Metal! The music is very good! Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD of limited digibook format in 2007. And also released from Napalm Records (Austria) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2008)
"BURRN!" 83/100 [TSUCHIYA Kyosuke] (March 2009)
POYOM VMESTE (LET'S SING TOGETHER)
This is an ARKONA's soundtrack with original arrangements. Tunes have been taken 4 tunes from the first album, 3 tunes from the second album, 2 tunes from the third album and 6 tunes from the fourth album. This was made by request of fans. This music is very great! Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
GOI, RODE, GOI! (OH, FAMILY, OH!)
This album was recorded at the studio CDM RECORDS (MOSCOW SOUND) between October 2008 and May 2009. Many musicians have taken part in this recording. Especially, in the song "NA MOEY ZEMLE" (ON MY LAND), members from MÅNEGARM, OBTEST, SKYFORGER, MENHIR and HEIDEVOLK have also participated. Masha's vocals and the music are very great! Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) under the license from Napalm Records (Austria) on limited CD of digibook format in 2009 (for sales in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic States only).
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2010)
STENKA NA STENKU
This mini album is very good! "VALENKI" (PROTECTION BOOTS AGAINST COLD) is a traditional song. And "SKÅL!" is featuring VARG. Released from SOUNDAGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) under the license from NAPALM RECORDS (Austria) on limited CD of DIGIPAK format in 2011 (for sales in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic States only).
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2011)
SLOVO (WORD)
This album was recorded at the studio CDM-records (Moscow) between November 2010 and April 2011. Many musicians have taken part in this recording. We can listen to great ARKONA music! The last "ZIMUSHKA" (WINTER) is a traditional song. Released from SOUNDAGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) under the license from NAPALM RECORDS (Austria) on CD of digibook format in 2011 (for sales in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic States only).
My degree of satisfaction: *****

Image Material

ZHIZN' VO SLAVU (LIFE TO GLORY)
This DVD contains a concert at the club "Relax" in Moscow on October 23, 2005. This format of DVD is PAL and all regions. Tunes have been taken 3 songs from the first album, 2 songs from the second album and 5 songs from the third album. And this DVD also contains photos as a bonus. Movies are good, sounds are stereo and Dolby Digital. Released from SOUND AGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2006)
NOCH' VELESOVA (NIGHT OF VELES)
This DVD contains a concert at the club "Tochka" in Moscow on October 31, 2007. This format of DVD is PAL and all regions. This DVD consists of 30 tracks. And this concert is better than the previous DVD "ZHIZN' VO SLAVU" (LIFE TO GLORY). Valery Naumov (IVAN TZAREVICH), Il'ya "Wolfenhirt" (SVARGA), Alexander "Shmel'" (RAROG) and Kseniya (KALEVALA) have also taken part in this concert. As a bonus, this DVD contains 2 video clips and an interview of Masha. The total time is 2 hours 33 minutes. The limited digibook edition contains 2 audio CDs. Released from SOUNDAGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) in 2009. And also released from Napalm Records (Austria) in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

ARKTIDA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Na gorizonte (On the horizon)
They play melodic power metal with symphonic and speedy parts. Many tunes are short, so I hope that they improve about that. And I feel that vocals are a little weak. As a whole, this album is cool. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)
SKVOZ' STOLETIYA (THROUGH THE CENTURIES)
This album is also powerful and good! Especially, I like "Na polputi k bessmert'yu" (Halfway to immortality), "Ne stoit slyoz" (Not worth the tears), "Orlinoe serdtse" (Eagleheart), "Aktivnaya liniya" (Active line), "Pechal'" (Sorrow) and "Stena vremyon" (Wall of times). "Orlinoe serdtse" is a Russian cover of STRATOVARIUS "Eagleheart". The last "Oy, moroz, moroz" (Oh, frost, frost) is a Russian traditional song and a bonus track. And this album contains a video clip "Na garizonte" (On the horizon), too. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2011)

ARTERIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

LETI NA SVET (FLY TO THE LIGHT)
ARTERIA is a project by Sergey Terentyev (ex-ARIA, ex-KIPELOV). Vocals in this recording are Alexey Bulgakov, who is a LEGION's vocalist. As a whole, this album is very good! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
V poiskakh novoy zhizni (In search of new life)
In this album, a vocalist has changed into Sergey Sergeev (ex-SHADOW HOST). And a bassist has changed and a guitarist has added. This album also contains songs that Sergey Terentyev composed and that contained in ARIA's albums. As a whole, this album is good. As a bonus, a video clip "Vremya ne zhdyot" (Time doesn't wait) has been contained. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2006)

ARTUR BERKUT

Outline

Sound Recording

Pravo Dano (The Right Has Been Given)
This first mini album consists of 5 tunes and a video. A main vocalist and keyboard player is Artur Berkut. Alexey Strike (guitars) and Igor "Bakh" Moravskiy (bass) are also members of PILIGRIM. All songs are very good! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2011)

ASTRA

Outline

Sound Recording

BELIE SNEGA (WHITE SNOW)
They play old style melodious rock with keyboards. I've heard that these sounds are like DEEP PURPLE or WHITESNAKE. The 2nd song "Leti" (Fly) is a good ballad. The 9th song "Marsh mototsiklistov" (Bikers' March) has speedy keyboards and guitar solos. It's cool! And this album contains a cover song of Hughes-Turner Project "Mystery Of The Heart" as a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in June 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

ATAKAMA

Outline

Sound Recording

Zvyozdi (The Stars)
The second full-length album of ATAKAMA featuring female vocals. This album is neither good nor bad. Released from Soyuz Music (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2009)

ATOM-76

Outline

Sound Recordings

Na Zakate Vsekh Vremyon (At Sunset Of All Times)
This EP consists of 4 songs. It's good. Released on the Internet in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
VOLKI OKEANA (WOLVES OF THE OCEAN)
This EP consists of 5 songs. They play good heavy power metal. But vocals are neither good nor bad as well as the previous EP. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

AVANTAGE

Outline

Sound Recording

Most Mirabo
The debut album of AVANTAGE. This album is normal. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

Avgust

Outline

Sound Recordings

Demon
This is the official debut album from Melodia (Russia) on LP in 1988. The first tune "DEMON" isn't bad, but the others are very great!! "KAK BOLIT GOLOVA" (WHAT THE HEAD ACHES) and "NOCH'" (NIGHT) are cool heavy metal tunes! "NOCH'" (NIGHT) is a live version. "ROYAL' I MORE" (PIANO AND SEA) is like the classical music and very melodious!! And also this album was remastered and released with 4 bonus tracks, recorded in 1984, from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2011)
Otvetniy Udar (Retaliatory Strike)
This second album became harder than the previous one "Demon". "Oryol" (Eagle), "Metall" (Metal) and "Rok-n-roll" (Rock'n'roll) are very cool!! And the last instrumental tune "Tsvetnoy son" (Color dream) is also very melodious and great!! I think Oleg Gusev is a great rock musician. This album was released from Melodia (Russia) on LP in 1989. And also this album was remastered and released with 3 bonus tracks, recorded in 1985, from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2011)
...Eto seychas! (...This is now!)
This album was recorded in 2003 and contains compositions of Oleg Gusev and Shershakov (TOVARISCHY). Old songs have been played with different arrangment, and all of them are cool! In the songs that I haven't listened, "Gasnet den'" (The day is going out) is best! The last song "Avgust" (August) is a bonus track. Released from Melodia (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
ABSOLYUT NA VSYO... (THE ABSOLUTE ON ALL...)
This album contains Oleg Gusev's five old compositions, but all are new arrangement. Alexsey Osinsky's new compositions aren't bad. The last two tunes are without vocals. Released from Producer's center "Domino" (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2005)
Za chertoy (Beyond the line)
The 5th album. All members except a vocalist have changed, but the music isn't bad. The last song is a bonus track. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2011)

Barsa

Outline

Sound Recording

Ruki-kril'ya (Hands-wings)
They play powerful, catchy and melodious hard rock. It's good! By the way, this album contains two bonus video clips in the first track. We can listen the music from the second track. Self-released on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (January/February 2008)

BEZUMNIE USILIA

Outline

Sound Recording

OGNI NEIZVESTNOSTI (UNKNOWN LIGHTS)
The 4th album. They play good modern metal. Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Alexey "KIDd" KUZOVLEV] (March/April 2009)

Boney' NEM

Outline

Sound Recordings

Melodii i ritmi zarubezhnoy estradi (Melodies and rhythms of a foreign stage)
The style of this album is characterized by unique sounds arranged famous pop songs like metal music. I'm very interested in this music. But the sound quality isn't good. And "Ne" of "Boney Nem" means "not" in Russian. So I think that "Boney NeM" means "not Boney M". In fact, this album contains "Sunny" and "Hooray! Hooray! It's a Holi-Holiday!" as cover songs of Boney M. Released from PolyGram (Russia) in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Melodii i ritmi zarubezhnoy estradi. Vipusk 2 (Melodies and rhythms of a foreign stage. Vol.2)
This album contains cover songs of ABBA, Earth, Wind And Fire, and so on. And there are also two bonus tracks. Released from PolyGram (Russia) in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Ni "Be", ni "Me" ili "V mire zhivotnikh" (I don't know, or in the world of animals)
This album is characterized by music mixed heavy metal, hard rock and pops with thick vocals. Catchy tunes with heavy guitar sounds are very cool! This album contains a tune like Hawaiian music, too. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from Misteriya Zvuka (Russia) on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Nastya Bakhmetyeva] (November 2000)
The Very Best of Greatest Hits
This album is their best album. It's characterized by popular music arranged like metal music. And this contains 3 bonus tracks. Members from KOMA have taken part in this album. Released from Misteriya Zvuka (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
V Vologde-gde (Live In Vologda-gda)
This is a live album, that is filled with very heavy sounds. The live recordings were held with members from KOMA at Vologda City on March 31, 2001. The sound quality is very good. This album consists of 17 tunes, and 5 tunes of all are new ones. You will be able to listen to thick vocals of Kirill Nemolyaev and funny sounds enoughly. And the design is by Igor Lobanov from END ZONE. Self-released on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (December 2001/January 2002)
DEN' POBEDI (THE DAY OF VICTORY)
This album contains cover songs of Tatu, ARIA, Alla Pugachova and so on. I like "Ti skazhi" (You say) and "Tol'ko etovo malo" (This only isn't enough) especially. And this album consists of 13 tracks. The last three tracks are bonus tracks. And the 13th track has contained a hidden song. Released from EM i NEM (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2003)
Romantic Collection
This album consists of 16 tracks. There are 9 new songs. The last 4 track is bonus ones. The 16th track contains a live version of "It's My Life (feat. "Marmeladniy" & "Beautiful Life")". Released from Mon Amour Records on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2004)
KRAYNYAYA PLOT' (PREPUCE)
This album is full with heavy sounds. But I don't know whose cover songs. The last two tunes are bonus tracks. Released from EM i NEM (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2005)
ISPODNEE (UNDERGARMENT)
Released in 2005.
NAS NYE DOGONYAT (THEY DON'T CATCH UP WITH US)
This album is full with heavy sounds as usual. And I don't know whose cover songs. This album consists of 21 songs and contains 8 new songs. The last four tunes are bonus tracks. As a whole, this album is good. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2006)
Tyazhyolie Pesni O Glavnom Chast' 1 (Heavy Songs About Important Things Vol.1)
This album is full with heavy sounds as usual. All songs are new and good. I like "Bu-Ra-To!". The last song is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2007)
tyazhyolie pesni o glavnom #2 (heavy songs about important things No.2)
I like "Tri konya" (Three horses)! The last two tunes are bonus tracks. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

Image Material

Greatest Best Video
This DVD contains 10 video clips between 1994 and 2001, and 2 new video clips. There are also makings and an interview. It's good. The total time is about 60 minutes. Self-released in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2006)

CHERNOBOG

Outline

Sound Recording

VLIDOXFATO
All lyrics have been written in Latin and Russian. Intense guitar sounds remind me of ROSSOMAHAAR. But it's a pity that the tunes are short. The last tune is an instrumental. This MC was released from CDM records (Russia) in 1999. And this CD was released from Sound Age Productions (Russia).
My degree of satisfaction: ***

CHORNIE OZYORA

Outline

Sound Recording

VOZMEZDIE (RETRIBUTION)
The songs were recorded in 2008 and 2009, and were mastered in 2011. The music is characterized by raw guitar sounds. Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

CHORNIY KOFE

Outline

Sound Recordings

perestupi porog (step over the threshold)
I heard this album has ever become a best seller. There are a lot of slow tunes, but this album is keeping hard guitar sound. And there are characteristic vocals in high tones. "Zhizni rassvet" (The dawn of life) is a speedy tune. "Ya ishchu..." (I'm looking for...) and "List'ya" (Leaves) are ballads. "Chorniy kofe" (Black coffee) is an interesting tune, that may be able to use as a commercial message of TV. The first release of this album is on LP in 1987. This CD was released from Triariy (Russia) in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Vol'nomu - volya (Suit yourself)
This is a melodic hard rock album and a keyboard has been used. This album is heavier than previous one. "BROZHU PO GORODU ODIN" (WALKING THE STREET ALONE) is a very heavy tune. "NOCH'" (NIGHT) is a ballad. "NOSTAL'GIYA" (NOSTALGIA) is a very good instrumental tune and is similar to the tune "THE LONER" of GARY MOORE. The first release of this album is on LP in 1989. This CD was released from SOLO FLORENTIN MUSIC (Germany) in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
svetliy metall (bright metal)
All tunes of this album were recorded from 1984 to 1986. This style is just music of 1980's. But many tunes have been contained in the previous albums. So I don't feel fresh very much. Released from MISTERIYA ZVUKA (Russia) on CD in 2000 (for sale in CIS countries only).
My degree of satisfaction: ***
GOLDEN LADY
This album has added some tunes on a LP released in 1991, and been released as an album that consists of 13 tunes. In this CD, a video clip "Shaking Baby" has been contained in MPEG format. This album has seven English tunes and six Russian ones. And some of them are the past tunes. Released from MISTERIYA ZVUKA (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: **
ENTSIKLOPEDIYA ROSSIYSKOVO ROKA CHORNIY KOFE (ENCYCLOPEDIA OF RUSSIAN ROCK CHORNIY KOFE)
This album consists of their best songs and contains 19 tunes. The sound quality is good. I recommend this album than the album "The BEST of BLACK COFFEE". Rleased from GRAND RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
The BEST of CHORNIY KOFE
This is the CHORNIY KOFE's version in "The BEST of" series from MUSIC OF THE FUTURE in Russia. This album consists of their best songs and contains 18 tunes. The sound quality is bad. In a booklet, their history has been written in Russian. Released on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
BELIY VETER (WHITE WIND)
It's already six years as an album that has contained new tunes since the album "P'yanaya luna" (Drunk moon) had been released in 1996. This album is filled with music that we can feel good rock of old ages. And this contains two cover songs of LED ZEPPELIN. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2002)
AREXANDRIA
This album is good. "Nochnoy yastreb" (Night hawk) and "Obitel'" (Monastery) are instrumental tunes. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Chorniy Kuznets

Outline

Sound Recordings

YA TOT, KTO YA EST'!
The debut album. I don't know the title's meaning. But the music is good heavy metal. Released from Redestruct in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2009)
ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK Lords & Heroes
This instrumental album is a soundtrack of a computer game "Lords and Heroes". A violin, a flute and a cello have been also used. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

Chorniy Obelisk

Outline

Sound Recordings

stena (wall)
Heavy metal with tight melody has been played well. "Stena" (Wall) and "Chorniy Obelisk" (Black Obelisk) are very heavy and cool tunes! "Tsezar'" (Tsar) and "Mech" (Sword) are also very cool!! Released from BSA Records on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
ya ostayus' (I remain)
"My v puti" (We are on the way) and "96+415" are cool! "Pel'mennaya" means a "Pelmeny" restaurant. I heard "Alkarel'" is some Scandinavian or English old name of a story. Released from BSA Records on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
NOVAYA ZHIZN' (NEW LIFE)
This album consists of 15 tunes that all are the past tunes. Released from Gold records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
The BEST of Chorniy Obelisk
This is the Chorniy Obelisk's version in "The BEST of" series from MUSIC OF THE FUTURE in Russia. This album consists of their best songs and contains 18 tunes. The sound quality is bad. In a booklet, their history has been written in Russian. Released on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Pepel (Ash)
This is the first new album after Anatly Krupnov died. All songs have been recorded in 2002. Their music style is old and new. It's a good heavy metal album. Released from AAAA Records (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2003)
ZELYONIY AL'BOM (GREEN ALBUM)
I feel this album isn't extreme and is quiet. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on limited digibook CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2006)

Claustrophobia

Outline

Sound Recording

Ne paday nits (Don't fall down)
The debut album of Claustrophobia. They play middle tempo melodic death metal. Vocals are normal and melodies are also normal. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (November/December 2006)

DAI

Outline

Sound Recording

VINOVEN TEM, CHTO ZHIV (IT'S GUILTY TO BE LIVING)
The sounds seem to have been influenced by early METALLICA strongly. "Ikonolikaya lozh'" (Icon-looking lie) and "Ispoved' semyoroshnika" (Semyoroshnik's shrift) are cool! This album was recorded at ARIA Records, and engineered by Vladimir Holstinin of ARIA. Released from SOYUZ (Russia) on CD in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Deti Labirinta

Outline

Sound Recordings

moy krest (my cross)
This Internet maxi-single consists of 6 tunes. The music is gloomy and good. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
100% samiy rok! (100% the very rock!)
This is the Internet release that contains the 30 best songs from the six albums released between 2000 and 2009. They are normal or good. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

DEVYATIY VAL

Outline

Sound Recording

Po tu storonu lzhi (Beyond a lie)
The debut album of DEVYATIY VAL. This album contains power metal tunes and ballads. Their music is very cool! The last tune is a bonus track. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2006)

D.I.V.

Outline

Sound Recordings

D'yavol'skiy Shabash (Devil's Sabbath)
This is the first demo in 1988 that consists of 5 songs. The sound quality is bad. The music isn't melodious and rough. But instrumental parts in the latter part of the 5th song aren't bad. This CD was rereleased from Misteria Publishing (Russia) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: *
Moya Bor'ba (My Fight)
This is the reissue CD of the album "Mein Kampf" in 1992. In 2002, this album was remastered by Sergey Taydakov who is a leader. The sound quality and the melody are better than the previous album "D'yavol'skiy Shabash" (Devil's Sabbath). I think their sounds are like MASTER. Released from Misteria Publishing (Russia) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Russian Frost
This is the reissue CD of the album "Russkiy Moroz" in 1996. This album is also like MASTER about how to create music. Released from Misteria Publishing (Russia) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: **
Myortvaya Tishina (Deathlike Silence)
The 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 7th songs are thrash metal, and drums are light. The 5th song "Zabitiy geroy" (Forgotten hero) is a ballad. And I'm surprised that other songs are techno music. I like "Fucking Detsl", "Gorod" (City) and "Krici" (Rats). Released from Misteria Publishing (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2004)

D.I.V.A.

Outline

Sound Recordings

ANGEL SVETA (ANGEL OF LIGHT)
This is the debut album of D.I.V.A.. The music is speedy or calm, and it's cool. Especially, I like the title tune. Female vocals aren't bad. In this album Sergey Kutaev (ex-SHADOW HOST) is a drummer. And in arrangement Alexey Strike (MASTER), Sergey Terentyev (ARTERIA) and so on have taken part in this recording. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Anjeli K.] (July/August 2008)
NET PUTI NAZAD (THERE ISN'T A WAY BACK)
They play good heavy/power metal. Released from Rik-Rec (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (March/April 2011)

DOM VETROV

Outline

Sound Recording

Ot Zemli (From the Earth)
This is the debut album of DOM VETROV. They play hard rock or heavy metal with a violin. The music isn't bad. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

DOROGA VODANA

Outline

Sound Recordings

DOROGA VODANA (WODAN'S WAY)
This music has been used a flute and is just folk rock. It's great! Especially, I love "PENIE REKI" (SINGING OF RIVER). Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Yura "Surgeon"] (January/February 2006)
VECHEREDA
I don't know the meaning of the title name. This album isn't bad, but I'm bored a little than the previous album. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (January/February 2007)
VOZVRASHCHAYAS' DOMOY (COMING BACK HOME)
This third album isn't bad. As a whole, this is a good album. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (July/August 2008)
CHETIRE STORONI (FOUR SIDES)
This is a mini album that consists of 4 songs and a video as a bonus. The music is very great! Especially, I like "Ballada o Poslednem Paladine" (A Ballad about the Last Soldier). Released from Irond (Russia) on CD Plus format, limited to 500 copies, in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (July/August 2009)

DUBININ · HOLSTININ

Outline

Sound Recording

AVARIA (WRECK)
Dubinin is a vocalist in this album. Most of tunes are ARIA's. But this album has been played with mainly an acoustic guitar. This album is just a rock album. "Uzhas i strakh" (Horror and fear) and "Takaya vot pechal'" (Such a sorrow...) are original tunes. "Rab strakha" (Slave of fear) is a speedy tune. Manyakin (ARIA's drummer) has taken part in as a drumer. Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

EKZISTENCIA

Outline

Sound Recording

Povelitel' Grozi (The Storm Master)
This debut album contains speedy parts and female vocals, but vocals and the music are halfway. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2008. And released from StormSpell Records (US) with the English title on limited CD to 400 copies with a handwritten number in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: **

ENIMOR

Outline

Sound Recording

Regeneration
This debut album. The first song "Pochemu ti molchish'" (Why do you keep silent) is very good. Released on the Internet in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

EPIDEMIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Volya K Zhizni (Will To Live)
This is a melodic power metal album, influenced by heavy metal, and consists of five tunes. "Volya K Zhizni" (Will To Live) and "Snova Byt' S Toboy" (Be With You Again) are cool!! "Ten' Lyubvi" (Shadow Of Love) is a ballad. Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on MC in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Na Krayu Vremeni (At The Edge Of Time)
In this recording, Ilya Knyazev replaced Nikolay Turunov as a new bassist. This album consists of 14 tunes and is much heavier and more melodious than previous one. The opening tune "Vrata Vremeni" (Gates Of Time) is an instrumental. The following tune "Zvon Monet" (Clink Of Coins) is very cool!! "N.A.S.T.YA." is a melodious ballad. The style of the first tune and "V Nevedomoy Strane" (In The Unknown World) is similar to SHADOW HOST. The title track is very dramatic!! Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on MC in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
ZAGADKA VOLSHEBNOY STRANI (RIDDLE OF MAGIC LAND)
In this album, Maxim Samosvat replaced Pavel Okunev as a new vocalist. This album became near heavy metal a little than the previous one. But all tunes have been composed well. Especially, in the fourth tune "FEANOR", I like the melody and speedy parts. And the fifth and eighth tunes also have sentimental vocals and rich melodies. The last tune "LIVIN' IN TWILIGHT" is a bonus track. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Yura "Surgeon"] (December 2001/January 2002)
EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS' (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT)
In this album, a guitarist and a drummer have changed. And this album is most powerful and dramatic in EPIDEMIA's albums. In this album called "metal opera", vocalists of the famous Russian rock bands have performed the roles of characters. The hero - Maxim Samosvat and the others - Autur Berkut from ARIA, Dmitriy Borisenkov from Chorniy Obelisk, Andrey Lobashov from ARIDA VORTEX, Kirill Nemolyaev from Boney NEM, Lexx from MASTER and Anastasiya Chebotaryova. This album was recorded at Aria Records for 4 months. The sounds are very cool!! And the last tune is a good bonus track. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Alexey "KIDd" KUZOVLEV] (May/June 2004)
ZHIZN' V SUMERKAKH (LIVIN' IN TWILIGHT)
A guitarist has changed. And in this album, all tunes are new arrangement. Maxim Samosvat has sung all old songs. This album was recorded at Aria Records between August and December 2004. All tunes are good. The last title tune is a Russian edition of "LIVIN' IN TWILIGHT" from the album "ZAGADKA VOLSHEBNOY STRANI" (RIDDLE OF MAGIC LAND). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2005)
EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS' - SKAZANIE NA VCE VREMENA (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT - STORY IN ALL TIMES)
This is a part II of their metal opera "EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS'" (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT). This is mastered at Finnvox Studios in Finland. In the band's members, a bassist has changed and a keyboards player has added. And many musicians have taken part in this recording. The music is very good! The limited edition of digibook format contains a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2008)
SUMERECHNIY ANGEL (ANGEL OF TWILIGHT)
The first single of EPIDEMIA. The first 2 tunes are melodious and good. The others are an orchestral version and an instrumental version of the song "Proydi Svoy Put" (Go Your Own Way). Released on April, 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
DOROGA DOMOY (HOMEWARD ROAD)
This full-length album contains 2 songs from the previous single. This album is good. Released from "Nikitin" recording firm (Russia) on limited CD of DIGIPAK format in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Image Material

Khroniki Sumerek - 10 LET PUTI (Chronicles of Twilight - 10 YEARS OF THE WAY)
This DVD contains a concert at DK Gorbunova in Moscow on December 2, 2005 and as bonus, acoustic version of songs, photos and so on. Movies are good, sounds are stereo and Dolby Digital. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2007)
Khroniki Sumerek - EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS' (Chronicles of Twilight - ELF'S MANUSCRIPT)
This DVD also contains a concert at DK Gorbunova in Moscow on December 2, 2005. This is a full concert set of a conceptual album "EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS'" (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT). Members from many Russian metal bands have taken part in this concert. (A female vocalist is another one.) This concert is very good. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2007)
EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS'. Saga O Dvukh Mirakh (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT. Saga About Two Worlds)
This 3DVD consists of 2 DVDs of a concert "EL'FIYSKAYA RUKOPIS'" (ELF'S MANUSCRIPT) and a DVD of additional materials. These DVDs are PAL format and Region 5. This is the final Epidemia's release with Maxim Samosvat on vocals. The concert was held on MSA "Luzhniki" on December 3, 2007. DISK1 "El'fiyskaya Rukopis'" (Elf's Manuscript) is the very great concert! DISK2 "El'fiyskaya Rukopis'. Skazanie Na Vse Vremena" (Elf's Manuscript. Story In All Times) isn't bad. The total time of 3 DVDs is 240 minutes. Released from "Nikitin" recording firm (Russia) on limited DIGIPAK format in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

EPITAFIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

PEREVYORUTIY MIR (THE TURNED WORLD)
This is the debut album. A vocalist is Artyom Stirov who was a vocalist of SERGEY MAVRIN. They play old style heavy metal and the sounds are good. The last tune "Shabash" is a bonus track. Released in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2005)
Zalozhniki sistemi (Hostages of system)
This is also a good heavy metal album. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

EPOHA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Kleymo Vechnogo Dolga (Stigma of Eternal Debt)
The debut album. The music is normal. Released from MetalAgen Records (Russia) in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew Korukhin] (July/August 2009)
Razgovor s angelom (Talk with an angel)
This single consists of 3 songs and a female vocalist has added. The first song is the title song. The next song "On ishchet nebo na zemle" (He is searching for the sky on the earth) is version 2009 of the fourth song in the album "Kleymo Vechnogo Dolga" (Stigma of Eternal Debt). It's good. The last song "Strakh" is a cover of "Fear" of MELANCHOLY. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Myaso dlya Vas (Meet for You)
This is a recording of "MEET FOR YOU" Festival in Elektrostal on October 24, 2009. Songs of the previous Internet single "Razgovor s angelom" (Talk with an angel) are also contained. This consists of 8 tracks with a bonus track.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

Ergot

Outline

Sound Recording

Prelyudiya: Pokhititel' Dush (Prelude: The Soul Reaver)
The debut Internet single that consists of 3 tunes. Vocals and the music are bad. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *

FACTOR STRAHA

Outline

Sound Recordings

TEATR VOENNIKH DEYSTVIY akt 1 (THEATER OF WAR ACTIONS act 1)
This debut album consists of 9 tracks. The music contains elements of melodic death metal. And all tunes are heavy and very good! The last track contains an English tune. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2005)
TEATR VOENNIKH DEYSTVIY: AKT 2 (THEATER OF WAR ACTIONS: ACT 2)
Part 2. The music is melodious and heavy. All tunes are very good! Kirill Nemolyaev left the band after the recording of this album. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2007)
TVOY IDEAL'NIY MIR (YOUR IDEAL WORLD)
This is the third album. VICTOR SMOLSKI (RAGE), Oleg Zhilyakov (CATHARSIS), Jerry Lenin (MECHANICAL POET), Vladimir Ermakov (Chorniy Obelisk) and Maxim Oleynik (IVAN TZAREVICH) have taken part in this recording. The recording and mastering have been held at the studio "Black Obelisk". The music is heavy and good. But I feel that tunes aren't catchy very much. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
MYORTVIE SNI (DEAD DREAMS)
This fourth album was recorded, mixed and mastered at the studio "Black Obelisk". Vladimir Ermakov (Chorniy Obelisk), Maxim Oleynik and Vlad Ivoylov (Amalgama) have taken part in this recording. I feel that this album isn't also catchy very much. The last two songs are in English version of songs from the first album. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)

FALCON HUNT

Outline

Sound Recording

SLAVYANSKAYA KHRONIKA (SLAVONIC CHRONICLE)
The debut album. They play music from folk to folk metal. Released in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

FIRST AID

Outline

Sound Recording

ZOMBILEND (ZOMBIE LAND)
This single consists of 3 songs. It's good. I like "Nad bezdnoy" (Over the abyss). Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

GALAKTIKA

Outline

Sound Recordings

V ATMOSFERE GLASNOSTI (IN ATMOSPHERE OF GLASNOST)
The first 2 tunes are calm. I like "Ya metall" (I'm metal). Released from Melodia (Russia) in 1987.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
GALAXY
This is an English album like American heavy metal. It's good! Released from Melodia (Russia) in 1991.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Gran-Kurazh

Outline

Sound Recording

NA VOYNE (ON WAR)
This Internet single consists of 3 songs. I feel that the music and vocals are like ARIA. It's very good! Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

GRAY

Outline

Sound Recording

Polin' - trava (Wormwood is grass)
The debut album of GRAY featuring female vocals. Female vocals have good harmony with this music style. A flute has been also used. As a whole, this album is good. Released from VOLH records (Russia) in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Pavel SHELUKHIN] (November/December 2009)

Grom

Outline

Sound Recording

Syn Starogo Lesa (A Son of the Old Forest)
This is the demo in 1999 with the Polish pagan metal band VENEDAE's album. I'm not interested in Grom's tunes. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia).
My degree of satisfaction: *

GUAHO

Outline

Sound Recording

Na puti v Ikstlan (On the way to Ikstlan)
This is the debut album of GUAHO featuring female vocals. It's neither good nor bad. Sergey Kalugin (ORGIA PRAVEDNIKOV) has taken part in the song "Magiya" (Magic) as a male vocalist. Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

HARIZMA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Istochnik cili (Source of power)
This album is powerful and the sound quality is also good. I like the second tune "Kto prav, kto vinovat?" (Who is right, who is quilty?) very much! As a whole, this album is good. Released from Misteriya Publishing (Russia) on CD-Extra format in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
II
This is the second full-length album. The first album contained many heavy metal tunes, but this album is just power metal. It's good! Especially, "Ogon'" (Fire) is very powerful and speedy! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2007)
Otklyuchis' ot seti (Be liberated from the Net)
This EP consists of 4 songs and a concert video in 2009. They play good heavy/power metal as usual. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on limited CD of CD Plus format and DIGIPAK format in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)
Sila i Vera (Power and Will)
The 3rd full-length album. A bassist and a keyboard player have changed. And many musicians have taken part in this recording. From the previous EP 3 songs except the last one have been contained. In this 3rd album, "Broshen Vizov", "Sekret" (Secret) and "Na Chuzhoy Zemle (Sila i Vera)" (On A Foreign Land (Power and Will)) are cool! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2011)

HORNED NECROCANNIBALS

Outline

Sound Recordings

Devki, seks i trupniy yad (Bitches, Sex & Ptomaine)
This is the debut album of Horned NecroCannibals. They play normal death metal. Vocals and the music isn't bad. There are Russian and English songs. In this recording, Wsegard (ATRA MUSTUM) has taken part in "Medsestra" (Nurse) as a backing vocalist and Roman Guryev (ARIDA VORTEX) has taken part in the title song as a solo guitarist. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2003)
CIRCVS OV SINS: ENTER THE VICES
The second full-length album. The music contains speedy parts and isn't bad. Self-released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2009)

HVANGUR

Outline

Sound Recording

Krov' i Pepel (Blood and Ashes)
It's characterized by guitar-based melodies with two kinds of vocals. All lyrics are in Russian. This album isn't bad. And this contains "In the Mist by the Hills", which is a cover song of Satyricon, and it has been translated in Russian. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": * [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2003)

ice desert

Outline

Sound Recording

nikto (none)
This tape album expresses the ice world well. But silent parts bore me. An ancient Russian harp called "gusli" has been used as well. Released in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

IGOR KUPRIYANOFF

Outline

Sound Recordings

POPITKA K BEGSTVU (ATTEMPT TO FLIGHT)
This is the first solo album by Igor Kupriyanoff who is a bassist of ex-CHORNIY KOFE. Vocals and melodious tunes are very great! Both of hard tunes and slow ones are cool! By the way, Igor Kupriyanoff took part in two albums of CHORNIY KOFE, "perestupi porog" (step over the threshold) and "Vol'nomu - volya" (Suit yourself), as a bassist and a vocalist. And then he created a song called "Ya ishchu..." (I'm looking for...). This album also contains the song with a new title "Moy put'" (My way). Released from Sintez Records on LP in 1991.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Sem' dney (Seven days)
This album consists of 12 songs and contains many calm songs. The title song is good, but as a whole, I'm bored a little. But I also like the 4th and 7th songs. The last three songs are bonus tracks. Released from Kvadro Disc (Russia) on CD in September 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

Intaglio

Outline

Sound Recording

Intaliya (Intaglio)
The debut album. Sounds are depressive and heavy. But this music is very slow, so I'm bored. Released from Solitude Productions (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
Another review: It's So Easy (Japanese)

IVAN TZAREVICH

Outline

Sound Recording

IDU NA VI!
I think this title means "I go on you!". It's characterized by well-trained male vocals of Valery Naumov and calm sounds. Ancient Russian harps called "gusli" has been also used. But as a whole, I don't like this music very much. Released from MIROZVUK (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2007)

IZMOROZ'

Outline

Sound Recording

IZBUSHKA BABUSHKI ZOMBI (A WOODEN PEASANT HOUSE OF A GRANDMOTHER OF ZOMBIE)
They play black metal with elements of folk metal or pagan metal. I like "BUKHLA NALEY!". Released from Grailight Productions (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2011)

Kaira

Outline

Sound Recordings

VOLYA ROKA (WILL OF FATE)
Kaira is a follower of ARIA and KIPELOV. A female vocalist, Kaira, is powerful and all songs have been sung in Russian. Sounds are melodic, but normal. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (September/October 2006)
Koleso Fortuny (Wheel of Fortune)
They play good symphonic heavy metal. A violin and violas have been also used. This album is good. And this contains a bonus video clip. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Georgich] (July/August 2007)
Khishchnitsa (Huntress)
This third album was mixed and mastered in England. Kaira's vocals and symphonic music are cool! A violin and a viola have been also used. Especially, I like "Ispoved'" (Confession) and "Geroy srednevekov'ya" (Hero of the Middle Ages) very much! The eighth tune "Begi" (Run) is a soundtrack to a film "To Escape From Destiny" (England). The Russian version was released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008. The English version was released with 8 tunes and a video "Confession" in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (March/April 2008)
DITYA OGNYA (CHILD OF FIRE)
The fourth album. The band's logo changed in English. They play symphonic industrial metal with a violin and a viola. Kaira's vocals are powerful and the music is very good! Basically the music is middle tempo, but "Ledi-Drayv" (Lady Drive) is a speedy tune. I also like "Virus Razvrata" (Virus of Lewdness) and "Karl Orf" (Carl Orff). Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (March/April 2009)
LATE STONE AGE
All lyrics are in English. In this album, there aren't a violin and a viola and male growl vocals have been used. The music style can call "symphonic industrial metal" like the previous album and it's very good. There are no songs worthy of special mention, but this album has been created solid. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (January/February 2011)

KALEVALA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Kudel' Belosnezhnogo L'na (Tow of Snow-white Flax)
The first album of KALEVALA, that a female vocalist is ex-NEVID''s Kseniya and a guitarist is ex-NEVID''s Nikita Andriyanov. They play music under influence of Finnish folklore. Almost lyrics are by Kseniya and almost compositions are by Nikita. As a whole, an accordion has been used very well and the music has atmosphere of banquets. I like this album very much! The last tune "Ti zh mene peedmanula" (You beckoned me) is an Ukrainian folk song and a male vocalist is Valery Naumov (IVAN TZAREVICH). This tune is also very good! Released from SOUND AGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
kukushkini deti (the cuckoo's children)
This second album is calmer than the previous one. Almost lyrics are by Kseniya and almost compositions are by Nikita and Kseniya. Lyrics of "Kalevala" are the epic poem Kalevala. The music is speedy and very good! The title tune is also very good! And I like "Gorsti talogo snega" (Handfuls of Thawed Snow) very much!! This song has been composed by an accordion player Alexander Oleynikov. Other songs are good. The normal edition was released from Metalism Records (Russia) on CD in 2009. Also the limited digibook edition was released with a bonus track "Kolokol'chik" (The Handbell) and a bonus video in 2009. "Kolokol'chik" (The Handbell) is a very good tune with an acoustic guitar.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2010)
VED'MA (WITCH)
This third album is very good. I like the title song, "Tausen'-Rada", "Bol'she nechego teryat'!" (There is nothing to lose any more!), "Svarozh'ya Noch'" and "Ladushka" (Dear). The last song "Dolgoy dorogoy" (Of the long road) is a bonus track. And this album also contains a bonus video of the title song. Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on limited digibook CD of CD Plus format in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2011)
SON-REKA (DREAM IS RIVER)
This single consists of 2 songs. The title song is very good. And the next traditional song "Oy, pri luzhke" (Oh, by a meadow) is speedy and very good! Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

KALI-YUGA

Outline

Sound Recording

YADERNAYA ZIMA (NUCLEAR WINTER)
The first album of KALI-YUGA. The silent ambient music with an acoustic guitar and female vocals. The melody is good, but I'm bored. Released from ARMOUR GET DAWN PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on MC in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

KALLISTO

Outline

Sound Recording

Doroga (The Way)
They play orthodox Russian heavy metal. This album is neither good nor bad. The last song "Kolokola" (Bells) is a bonus track. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (May/June 2011)

KAMELOT-Z

Outline

Sound Recording

L'VINAYA DOLYA (LION'S SHARE)
This is the album of Andrey Lefler (ex-SERGEY MAVRIN's vocalist) and the group "Kamelot-Z". Pavel Elkind (ex-SERGEY MAVRIN) has also taken part in this album as a drummer. They play melodious heavy metal with a violin. The music isn't extreme and is middle tempo. It's not bad. I like "Toska" (Melancholy) very much! Released on December 25th, 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

KHRANITELI

Outline

Sound Recording

Derzhi nebo vzglyadom (Hold the sky with a look)
This is the debut EP that consists of 4 songs. Male and female vocals have been used. The music is good. The title song is featuring Nookie (SLOT) and Lars (EPIDEMIA). Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

KIPELOV

Outline

Sound Recordings

vavilon (Babylon)
This is a single that consists of 3 songs. The first song is a new one "vavilon" (Babylon). It's cool! I expect their next full-length album. The second song is "ya svoboden!" (I'm free!) and the third song is "smutnoe vremya" (dark age). And this single also contains a video clip of "ya svoboden!" (I'm free!). Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD of CD-Extra format in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Reki Vremyon (Rivers Of The Times)
Sergey Terentyev and Sergey Mavrin have already left the group. As an official guitarist, Andrey Golovanov added to the group. And Victor Smolski (a RAGE's guitarist) has taken part in this album as a special guest. The mastering has been held in Germany. All tunes are good. The first edition was released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2005. And the remastered edition was released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2008)
NA GRANI (ON THE BORDER)
This is a single that consists of 3 songs. The first tune is the title tune. It's a pity that this isn't extreme music. The second and third tune is acoustic version with an orchestra of "Ya Zdes'" (I'm Here) and "Noch v Iyule" (Night in July). I hope that the next full-length album contains speedy and cool tunes. Released from Mysteria Records (Russia) on CD of DIGIPAK format in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
ZHIT' VOPREKI (LIVE CONTRARY)
This consists of an audio CD and a bonus DVD (PAL format, Region ALL). Audio CD contains 10 tunes, and DVD contains interviews with the group and photos. The chamber orchestra "Chistaya Muzika" (Clean Music) has taken part in "Zhit' vopreki" (Live contrary) and "Na grani" (On the border). And the symphony orchestra "Globalis" has taken part in "Bezumie" (Madness) and "Dikhanie posledney lyubvi" (Breath of the last love). Especially, I like the title song, "Vlast' ognya" (Power of fire), "Glamurnaya ptitsa" and "Dikhanie posledney lyubvi" (Breath of the last love). Released from Mysteria Records (Russia) on DIGIPAK format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

Image Materials

Put' naverkh (Way up)
This official DVD contains a concert in Saint-Petersburg on May 24, 2003. The format of DVD is PAL and Region ALL. The sound and movie quality is very good. They have played songs in the era of ARIA. I like vocals of Valery Kipelov and guitars of Sergey Mavrin very much! Released from Russkiy Khit (Russia) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2004)
Moskva '2005/Reki Vremyon. Tur 2005. (Moscow '2005/Rivers Of The Times. Tour 2005.)
This second official DVD consists 2 disks. DVD 1 contains a concert at "Luzhniki" Sports Palace in Moscow on May 28, 2005 and 3 video clips. The sound and movie quality is very good! As a guest member, Victor Smolski has been playing guitars in stead of Sergey Mavrin who has already left the group. DVD 2 contains docmentary of members, the making movie of a song "Ya zdes'" (I'm here) and an interview. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on digibook format in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2007)
V (Five)
This official DVD contains a concert in Saint-Petersburg on October 20, 2007 and was released celebrating the 5th anniversary of the group. The format of DVD is Region Free. The sound and movie quality is very good. Vyacheslav Molchanov has been playing guitars as an official member. First in this DVD I listened to "Nikto" (Nobody). And they have also played some songs in the era of ARIA. The limited edition of digibook format contains the concert DVD in DVD 1, docmentary of the group and additional material such as a video clip and live videos in DVD 2 and a book that contained photos since 2002 and chronicle of the group. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2008)

KIPELOV & MAVRIN

Outline

Sound Recording

smutnoe vremya (dark age)
Alik Granovsky, who was a ARIA's member before, took part in recording of this album. In this album, we are able to recognize that Kipelov is a very great vocalist. "Ya Svoboden!" (I'm Free!) and "Svet Dnevnoy Issyak..." (Day Light Is Over...) are masterpieces! Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

KIRILL NEMOLYAEV

Outline

Sound Recordings

KOMICHESKIE KUPLETI (FUNNY POPULAR DITTIES)
This is the first solo album limited to 500 copies. And this contains cover songs of famous heavy metal bands, such as Judas Priest, Helloween and Iron Maiden. The style seems jazz or blues. But I feel the original good is lost. And all songs are short. Self-released on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (October 2001)
Dlya Vas, Zhenshchini! (For you, Ladies!)
This is a dance album created only for ladies. This contains cover songs of famous pop musicians, such as Mariah Carey. There are also three bonus tracks. Released from Esse on CD in 2002.
"DARK CITY": ** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (April/May 2002)

KOLIZEY

Outline

Sound Recordings

SKOL'KO DOROG (HOW MUCH VALUABLE)
This debut album is good. The music is like EPIDEMIA. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2010)
Imya Tvoyo (Your Name)
This is the Internet single that consists of 4 songs. It's melodious and good! The last song "A Way Home" is a bonus track. Released on January 29, 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
NEONOVIY TSVETOK (NEON FLOWER)
This is the Internet single that consists of 3 tunes. A vocalist, a drummer and a keyboards player have changed. The music is good melodic heavy metal. I like "Polyot motil'ka" (Flight of a butterfly). Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

KOLO

Outline

Sound Recording

KOLO
In this project, Munruthel is under the name of Vladislav. This album contains instrumental tunes and songs of female vocals. The music is slow. This album also contains a video clip. Released from OSKOREI Music (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2005, limited to 1000 copies.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

KOMA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Tsepi (Chains)
The first album of KOMA. All songs have been sung in Russian. The music is like raw sounds and very rough. I don't like this album. Released on MC in April 1992.
My degree of satisfaction: *
Born To Be Great
This is a demo tape in 1994. It's characterized by vocals of death voices. This may have become better than the first album, but I don't like this music.
My degree of satisfaction: *
Awakening Of Wax Figures
This album that consists of 10 tunes was released in 2000. The music became much better than the previous albums. Especially, I like the title song. And KOMA has also supported on Boney NEM as session members.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Yura "Surgeon"] (November 2000)
oskolok zvezdi (splinter of a star)
This album consists of 9 tunes. All songs have been sung in Russian. Their heavy sounds are just thrash metal, but the melody isn't orthodox thrash. "Diagnoz - smert'" (The diagnosis is death) and "Kakaya raznitsa?!" (It makes no difference!) are cool. "Shakh, mat" (Checkmate) is like progressive metal because of containing sounds of a sax. This CD was released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2004, adding a video clip of "Kakaya raznitsa?!" (It makes no difference!). (Only for sale in Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States.)
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2004)
YA VIDEL (I SAW)
This EP consists of 5 tunes. The style is called "Eclectic Metal". It seems to be mixture of alternative metal, hardcore and so on. The fourth and fifth tunes are instrumental version of the first and second tunes. Released from Mass Culture on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2010)

KONSTANTIN SELEZNYOV

Outline

Sound Recordings

notes
The first solo album of Konstantin Seleznyov. He play jazz rock with an expansive mood. All tunes are instrumental and they are good. Especially, I like "DEDICATION" very much. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)
TERRITORIYA...[X] (TERRITORY...[X])
The second solo album. This album is dedicated to Il'ya Alexandrov (FACTOR STRAHA's vocalist). The music style is modern metal and many vocalists have taken part in this recording as guest vocalists. The music isn't bad. And this album contains two bonus videos and many documents. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2011)

KORROZIA METALLA

Outline

Sound Recordings

"Zhizn' V Oktyabre" '87 ("Live In October" '87)
Recorded the concert in "Red October" culture palace in the beginning of June, 1987. This first album is vigorous and aggressive. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
ORDEN SATANI (THE ORDER OF SATAN)
"SPID" (AIDS) and "Chorny Terror" (Black Terror) are cool!! I like "Abbadon" as well. "Sed'mie Vorota Ada" (The Seventh Gate of Hell) is an instrumental. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
RUSSIAN VODKA
This album is more powerful than the previous one. "S'ESH' ZHIV'YOM" (EAT ALIVE) and "ZOV TENEY" (THE CALL OF SHADOWS) are very cool!! Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
debosh v orlenke - 90 (debauch in eaglet - 90)
This is a live album and has been sold only in Russia and CIS countries. This CD was released in 1998 from Moroz Records and HRC in Russia. The first edition was released in 1990.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
«KANNIBAL» '90 ("CANNIBAL" '90)
The last three tunes had been recorded in the concert "DEBAUCH IN EAGLET". Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Sadizm (Sadism)
This album is very heavy from first to last. "OMOBENIE TRUPOV" (BAPTISM OF CORPSES) is an instrumental. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: **
NICHT KAPITULIREN
Three hits "NICHT KAPITULIREN", "APOCALYPSYS TIME" and "TELL ME WHY" are contained. The latter half of this album is live recordings in SEXTON and OFITSEROV culture palace. "NICHT KAPITULIREN" means "DON'T SURRENDER" in English. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
1.966
The music style is like NAPALM DEATH. "RITUAL SOZZHENIYA TRUPOV" (RITUAL INCINERATING CORPSES) and "BROKEN ANGEL" are cool!! "APOCALIPSIS TIME", "PUNK NOT DEAD" and "DIGITAL EXCITER" are very heavy!!! Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
ZADERZHITE POESD (LET'S DELAY A TRAIN)
This album has been sold only in Russia and CIS countries. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
ADSKIY KONTSERT (HELL'S CONCERT)
This live album has been sold only in Russia and CIS countries. Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
CHELOVEK SO SHRAMOM (A MAN WITH A SCAR)
There are some tunes in live. "VENERA" (VENUS) is a good instrumental. "SPID" (AIDS) in this album is heaviest!! Released from Moroz Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
KOMP'YUTER - GITLER (COMPUTER IS HITLER)
Released in 1997.
UGAR V POLYARNOM! (CARBON MONOXIDE AT THE POLE!)
The new hit "NIGER" is contained. All tunes except "NIGER" are live edition. Released from Video service (Russia) on CD in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
VENERA (VENUS)
Released in 1998.
Tantseval'niy RAY & ad '98 (Dance PARADISE & hell '98)
This album shows an interpretation of dance music on their eight tunes. Released from Azon (Russia) on CD in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
ON NE LYUBIL UCHITELEY (HE DIDN'T LOVE TEACHERS)
Released in 1999.
Bey chertey- spasay rossiyu (Hit devils- save Russia)
This album consists of 13 tunes. The order of tunes in a cover have been mistaken. The third tune is "Bey chertey" (Hit devils), the fourth tune is "Nigger" (Niger), the fifth tune is "Rep eto kal" (Rap is shit) and the sixth tune is "Oy" (Oh). Released from HRC (Russia) on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
S Novim Godom! (A Happy New Year!)
This single consists of four new tunes. Released in 2000.
SAMOGON (MOONSHINE)
This album contains some old tunes. The names of tunes in a cover have been mistaken. The third tune is "Ritual sozhzheniya trupov" (Ritual incinerating corpses), the fourth tune is "Hail Furer", the fifth tune is "Bey chertey" (Hit devils), the sixth tune is "On ne lyubil uchiteley" (He didn't love teachers) and the 11th tune is "Smert' Tsunarefam" (Death of Tsunarefam). Released from MOON Records (Ukraine) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Image Material

Sadizm TUR 1992-1993 (Sadism TOUR 1992-1993)
This DVD contains some documentary films and erotic video clips. They played in Russia and Germany. But I'm not interested in long documentary films and I'm bored. The total time is 105 minutes. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: *

KRADA

Outline

Sound Recording

STUPENI (STEPS)
They play pagan black metal with symphonic and speedy melodies. It's good. The third and last tunes are acoustic tunes. Released from VOLH records (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": * [Anjely K.] (September/October 2008)

KRAMOLA

Outline

Sound Recording

KROV' SVOBODI (BLOOD OF FREEDOM)
The first album of KRAMOLA. Main members are Les'yar (NEVID'), Arsafes (KARTIKEYA, NEVID') and Wolfenhirt (SVARGA). And other musicians such as from NEVID' and SVARGA have been also taken part in this recording. Almost of music are by Arsafes and almost of lyrics are by Les'yar. As a result, this album seems to be folk black metal version of NEVID'. This album also contains speedy parts and folk music, but as a whole this album has dark atmosphere. The total time is about 80 minutes. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (January/February 2009)

KRILYA

Outline

Sound Recordings

V krayu poteryannikh dush (In the land of lost souls)
This debut album was mixed and mastered by W. Angel (CONQUEST). Vocals are similar to Valery Kipelov! They play good heavy metal, so they are just Ukrainian KIPELOV. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2010)
TAMERLAN
A bassist has changed. This single contains 2 songs. The first tune is the title tune and the second tune is a cover of IRON MAIDEN's "Revelations". The music isn't bad. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Gorizont (Horizon)
A guitarist has added. This 2nd full-length album isn't also bad. "Dukh rok-n-rolla" (Spirit of rock'n'roll) is dedicated to Ronnie James Dio (10.7.1942-16.5.2010). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2011)

KRODA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Poplach Menee, Reechko... (Cry For Me, River...)
The first album of KRODA. They play folk pagan black metal. The last tune "Apocalypse" is a cover of HYPOCRISY. This MC was released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) in 2004. And this CD was released from PATRIOT records in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Do Nebokrayu Zhittya... (Towards the Firmaments Verge of Life...)
The second album. This album has melodious and speedy parts. But I feel that it isn't good very much. The last tune "Gniv" (Wrath) is a cover of HONOR. This MC was released from ANCIENT NATION Productions (Ukraine)in 2005, limited to 500 copies. And this CD was released from HAMMERMARK ART (Germany) in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
FIMBULVINTER
All tunes are long. They play pagan black metal with folk influences. The last tune "A STORMRIDE" is a cover of BRANIKALD. Released from Hammermark Art (Germany) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Live in Lemberg
This is a live album that was recorded on March 14, 2008. Released from Hammermark Art (Germany) and Battlelord Productions (Japan) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Another review: It's So Easy (Japanese)

KRONER

Outline

Sound Recording

ZOMBIE TELEVISION
This is a really uninteresting album. Released from SNC Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: *

KRUIZ

Outline

Sound Recordings

KRUTITSYA VOLCHOK (TOP IS SPINNING)
This is the first album of KRUIZ. They play rock music as if it's between hard rock and pops. Released on LP in 1980.
My degree of satisfaction: **
P.S. PRODOLZHENIE SLEDUET (P.S. TO BE CONTINUED)
This album contains many slow songs. The sixth and seventh songs are heavy. But as a whole, I'm bored. Released in 1983.
My degree of satisfaction: **
KiKoGaVVa
This album is also just KRUIZ's music. Released in 1985.
My degree of satisfaction: **
KRUIZ-1
This was created by a guitarist Valery Gaina and is the first heavy metal album issued with the name of KRUIZ. The music style is different from usual KRUIZ completely. And members are three. Valery Gaina is a vocalist and guitarist, Fyodor Vasilev is a bassist and Sergey Efimov is a drummer. I hear that in USSR this album was saled one million copies and the total issue became 12,000,000. The heavy and speedy sounds are very cool! But the sound quality isn't good very much. The LP version was released from Melodia (Russia) in 1987. And this album was rereleased in 2002. In the reissue edition, all tunes are new recordings. And this was also remastered and has been released with 7 bonus tracks from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
KRUIZ
The second heavy metal album by the trio KRUIZ. The style is just speed metal! All tunes are very cool!! The last tune is a Russian version of the fifth tune "IN FLAMES". The first edition was released from WEA Records (West Germany) in 1988. And this was also remastered and has been released with 3 bonus tracks from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": _ [Igor "JEFF" POLYAKOV] (March/April 2008)
ZHELEZNIY ROK (IRON ROCK)
This is the third heavy metal album which consists of 14 tunes. The live recordings are 8 tunes and studio recordings are 6 tunes. The studio recordings are Russian version of songs in the album "KRUIZ". The music itself is cool. But the sound quality is very bad. Released in 1989.
My degree of satisfaction: **
Volchok (Top)
This album consists of 14 tunes and many of them are in the first album. I feel rock music of 1970-80's. Released from Russkoe Snabzhenie (Russia) on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: **
Veterany Roka (Veterans of Rock)
This album has old KRUIZ's sounds and hard melody. The music is like art rock. The sound quality isn't bad. Released from MUZA (Russia) on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
CULTURE SHOCK ALS
This album was recorded in 1989 to be released from Warner, but never was released. And at last this was released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008. This is a heavy metal album by trio KRUIZ and sounds are good.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

Image Material

LIVE IN OMSK 1986
This DVD contains a concert in Omsk in 1986 and an interview as a bonus. The format of DVD is region free. Members of KRUIZ are the trio and they play Russian heavy metal. Camera works aren't good very much, but the music is cool! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

KRYNITZA

Outline

Sound Recordings

ANGEL
The debut album. This album isn't bad. Released from Sonnenvolk Productions (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Vo Slavu Solntsa (Hail To The Sun)
The second full-length album. They play music with influence of Russian folk music and tradition. The music is characterized by clear male and female vocals, acoustic guitars, a flute, zhaleyka, a balalaika, a violin, a harmonica, a bass, a mouth harp and percussion. Lyrics of the third and fourth songs are by A. Tolstoy and the fifth song is a Russian folk song. This album is very great! Released from Sonnenvolk Productions (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

KUWALDA

Outline

Sound Recordings

DELIKATESI (DELICACIES)
Vocals are similar to KORROZIA METALLA. But I'm interested in this music very much. And this album contains two video clips. Released from Sound Age Productions (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: **
SPASI I SOKHRANI (SAVE AND KEEP)
This album consists of 12 tunes. I'm interested in this music very much. Released from Sound Age Productions (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: **
ALKONOID
This mini album consists of 8 songs. I don't know the title's meaning. The music is good. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
BLUD (DISSIPATION)
This single consists of 2 songs. I'm interested in this music very much. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: **

LEGION

Outline

Sound Recordings

Knights of Cross
I think this album is the first full-length album. The music style seems progressive rock with heavy sounds. Released in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
1980-1987
This album consists of their best songs. This contains many melodious tunes, for example, "ARMAGEDDON", "KHOZYAIN ZLA" (MASTER OF EVIL) and "LISTOPAD" (FALLIN' LEAVES). "LISTOPAD" (FALLIN' LEAVES) is very cool!! "GRUST'" (SORROW) is a melodious ballad. I like "MIR POD SEKRETOM" (THE WORLD UNDER A SECRET) as well. This album has been dedicated to two dead members, who are Oleg Tsaryov and Sergey Komarov. And this album was recorded by Alexey Bulgakov (vocals) and Alexey Chernishov (all except vocals). Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
DAY MNE IMYA (GIVE ME A NAME)
In this album, all members except Alexey Bulgakov have been changed. So the style also changed a little, and this album has a lot of slow melodies. But guitars are being played heavily. Lyrics have the antiwar spirit. "DEBYATNADTSAT' LET" (NINETEEN YEARS) is dedicated to young soldiers who have perished in the war due to bombing from air to Yugoslavia by NATO in 1999. "ERETIK" (HERETIC) is dedicated to Giordano Bruno (1548-1600), who was executed for assertion of his infinite cosmology. This album was released from LEGION RECORDS (Russia) on MC in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
U OKNA (BY THE WINDOW)
The first and second tunes are very cool! The third tune "Lunnaya sonata" (Lunar sonata) is a fragment of Beethoven's piano sonata "Moonlight". "Dvoe" (Two) and "Veteran" are also very good!! Especially, sweet vocals by Alexey Bulgakov! This album contains two great bonus tracks. One of them "Ne ubivay" (Don't kill) is a speed tune that didn't have been contained in "1980-1987". Another is a METALLICA's cover tune, "Enter sandman". This first edition was released on CD in 2000. And this was rereleased with 3 bonus tracks on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
PROROCHESTVO (PROPHECY)
This album contains 9 tunes with speedy guitar sounds. "Pis'ma v Edem" (Letters to Eden) is a great ballad! "Turetskoe rondo" is Mozart's "Turkischer Marsch". This first edition was released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2001. And this was rereleased with 3 bonus tracks on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Yura "Surgeon"] (October 2001)
MAYATNIK VREMYON (PENDULUM OF TIMES)
This album is dedicated to Russian soldiers to fight and die for their fatherland. Especially, the 2nd song is dedicated to the war in Afganistan, and the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th songs are dedicated to battles near Moscow in winter 1941. The music is very cool, for example, the first song "Moya Rossiya" (My Russia). In this album keyboards are also good. Really new and old LEGION's music is great! And I found a mistake on the booklet. In fact, the 8th song and the 9th song have been contained conversely. Released from MOROZ RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
The Game
This is a CD that consists of 3 tracks and seems to be created for the ice hockey club "Izmaylovo Wild Boars". The 1st track is the song "Igra" (The Game) in Russian, and the 2nd track is the song "The Game" in English. Both are very cool! The 3rd track contains the three video clips on MPEG2 format. They are "Listopad" (Falling Leaves), "Tsaritsa chernikh skal" (The monarch of black rocks) and "Pis'ma v Edem" (Letters to Eden). And this also contains members' photos of "Wild Boars". Released on CD Plus format in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
STIKHIYA OGNYA (THE RAGE OF FIRE)
A guitarist has changed. The 1st tune "Ritsar' Legiona" (Knight of Legion) is cool! And I like a guitar solo of "Rassvet" (Dawn) and piano of "Zvezda" (Star). The last tune as a bonus track is "Igra" (The Game). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2005)
Chetire stikhii - live in Moscow (Four elements - live in Moscow)
This live album was recorded at MSA "Luzhniki" on November 12, 2005. Eight songs are live version and the last song was recorded at a studio. This album contains many good songs! And this contains a live video file, but the camera work isn't good. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2006)
MIFI DREVNOSTI (MYTHS OF ANTIQUITY)
They play cool heavy metal as uaual. I like "STRANA DUSHI" (A COUNTRY OF SOUL) and "VREMYA SLAVI" (THE TIME OF GLORY). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2007)
NEVIDIMIY VOIN (INVISIBLE WARRIOR)
A drummer as the official member has changed. This album is very good. Especially, I like "Lunniy Svet" (Moonlight) and "Izbranniy Sud'boy" (The Elite with Fate). The last song "Zvezda" (Star) is also very great! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format with a video clip in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2011)

LIHOLESIE

Outline

Sound Recordings

IZVECHNOE KOLOVRASHCHENIE (PRIMEVAL ROTATION)
A one-man band Liholesie's first CD. This music is beautiful, but isn't extreme at all. I'm bored a little. Released from Stygian Crypt productions (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2004)
RODNIE PROSTORI (VAST HOMELAND)
This second album is similar to the first one and silent music. It's good. Released from Stygian Crypt productions (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2005)
videniya (the visions)
This third album is neo-folk or ambient music. It's very good. Released from Stygian Crypt PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on CD of DIGIPAK format, limited to 1000 copies, in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2007)
Bespredel'naya Zhazhda Inogo (Boundless Thirst for the Outside)
This album is also good as usual. Released from Assault Rex (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

LILIT

Outline

Sound Recording

22 zhizni (22 lives)
The debut album of LILIT featuring female vocals. The music isn't bad. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

LIR

Outline

Sound Recordings

ZHIZN' S PULEY V SERDTSE (LIFE WITH A BULLET IN A HEART)
The music is similar to TELA because of Sergey "Lir" Shklovskiy is a vocalist. Lir's sweet vocals and the music are good. All lyrics are in Russian. This album contains 8 bonus tracks and a video clip. Released from HELLCOME TO DOLLYWOOD RECORDS (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew Korukhin] (May/June 2009)
PADSHIY (THE FALLEN)
This album is also good. "MOY ROK" (MY FATE) is very good! And I like "TANTSUY" (DANCE), "DZHEKI POTROSHITEL'" and "ULETAY (RMX RETYPE)" (FLY). "OT SKUKI" (FROM BOREDOM) is a cover of RETYPE. "ZABUD' MENYA" (FORGET ME) is by STIGMATIC CHORUS. And this album also contains an Industrial Mix of "ZHIZN' S PULEY V SERDTSE" (LIFE WITH A BULLET IN A HEART). Self-released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

LUT'

Outline

Sound Recordings

dneepro 14/88 (The Dnieper 14/88)
The first album that is dedicated to BlazeBirth Hall. The music is characterized by raw guitars and fast melodies. The first edition was released from Rarog Production in 2004. And rereleased from Evil Barber Records (Ukraine) in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
The Day of the Rope
The second album. I feel that the sounds aren't bad very much. "Ukrainian Patriot" is a cover of SOKYRA PERUNA. Released from Chernovit Productions in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

LUTOMYSL

Outline

Sound Recordings

VIZOV (THE CHALLENGE)
The first album of LUTOMYSL (their previous name was PROFANE SOLITUDE). Screaming vocals are the same style as "...back to chopped down Roots" of Lucifugum. The music is characterized by speedy guitars, middle tempo vocals and drums. The 4th tune is an instrumental. This MC was released from ANCIENT NATION Productions (Ukraine) in 2003, limited to 500 copies. This CD was released from EastSide Records (Poland) in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
I(')MQUI(nt)ESS/CENCE
It's characterized by speedy guitars, melancholic vocals and melodies. The music is cool! Released from Total Holocaust Records (Sweden) on MC limited to 1111 copies with a handwritten number and on CD limited to 1000 copies, in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
ZIMA LYUDSTVA (Winter Of Humanity)
It's a pity that I don't like this music very much. This MC was released from PROPAGANDA (Ukraine) in 2004, limited to 611 copies with a handwritten number. This CD was released from EastSide Records (Poland) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: **
Decadence
It's characterized by hysterical vocals, heavy guitars and speedy melodies. This music is very cool! This MC was released from PROPAGANDA (Ukraine) in 2005, limited to 666 copies with a handwritten number. This CD was released from MERCENARY MUSIK (US) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Catharsis
It's characterized by hysterical vocals, cool and speedy guitars. This music is very good! All songs except "Jet Black Metal Art" are in Russian. This MC was released from PROPAGANDA (Ukraine) in 2006, limited to 666 copies. This CD was released from MERCENARY MUSIK (US) in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
De Profundis
It's characterized by hysterical vocals, cool guitars and fast melodies. It's very great! Released from Supernal Music (UK) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

M8L8TH

Outline

Sound Recording

Chornim Krilom (By the Wing of Black)
This album consists of "By the Wing of Black" and a rehearsal demo in 2003. It's characterized by hysterical vocals and semi-melodious guitars. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": *** [Oleg POZDEEV] (January/February 2005)

MAFIA

Outline

Sound Recording

TAYNI (SECRETS)
They play normal heavy metal. Sergey Mavrin has taken part in the recording of the title tune as a guitarist. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ***** [Anjeli K.] (March/April 2009)

MANIYA VELICHIYA

Outline

Sound Recording

Liki Teney (Characteristic of Shadows)
The second album. They play melodic power metal with female vocals and symphonic sounds. But the music is neither good, nor bad. The last 3 tunes are bonus tracks. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (May/June 2009)

MASTER

Outline

Sound Recordings

MASTER
After ARIA released the second album, MASTER was formed by ex-ARIA's members who hoped their music become near thrash. And this first album was released from Melodia (Russia) on LP in 1987. All songs have been sung in Russian. Members' dream came true, but this album has roughness. This reissue CD was released from SOYUZ (Russia) in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
S PETLEY NA SHEE (WITH A LEE ON A NECK)
I feel that this second album became more powerful a little than the first album. But I'm not interested in this very much. This LP was released from Melodia (Russia) in 1989. This reissue CD was released from SOYUZ in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: **
TALK OF THE DEVIL
This third album has been sung in English. Released from MOROZ Records on LP in 1991.
MANIAC PARTY
This album has also been sung in English. Many songs are similar, so I'm bored. Released from APEX on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: **
LIVE
The first live album for MASTER. The sound quality isn't good very much. Released from BEKAR RECORDS in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: **
PESNI MYORTVIKH (SONGS OF THE DEAD)
All songs have been sung in Russian. The sounds aren't speedy and have become calm than the previous albums. Released from Flam Records in 1996.
My degree of satisfaction: **
THE BEST
The second live album. This is the recordings of the concert in Moscow. They are playing heavy metal roughly. Most of tunes are short. I like ballads a little. Released from Flam Records (Russia) on CD in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: **
LABIRINT (LABYRINTH)
The eighth album recorded in 1999. All members, except Alik Granovsky (bass), have changed. The new members are Oleg Milovanov (drums), who is ex-END ZONE, LEXX (vocals) and LEO (guitars). The sound quality is good, but I'm bored. Released from CD Land+ (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *
TRIBUTE TO HARLEY-DAVIDSON
This contains two ARIA's songs and one MASTER's song. Released in 2001.
Klassika 1987-2002 (The Classics 1987-2002)
This album contains songs of the past.

MAVRICK

Outline

Sound Recordings

Skitalets (Wanderer)
Artur Berkut (ex-Avtograf's vocalist) has taken part in this album as a vocalist. Almost lyrics have been written by Margarita Pushkina, who is a lyricist of ARIA. And Vladimir Holstinin (an ARIA's guitarist) also has taken part in the 10th tune "Makadash" with a mandolin. The second tune "Smeysya i plach'" (Laugh and cry) is a melodious good tune. The eighth tune "Gonka" (Race) is a tune that arranged the tune "Castlevania" from "smutnoe vremya" (dark age) of KIPELOV & MAVRIN. Released from Classic Company (Russia) on CD in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
NEFORMAT
This Russian title means "NOT THE FORMAT" in English. This album contains 11 tunes. I don't know how should call this style, but some of tunes seem to be near to hardcore. And this album became harder than the previous one "Skitalets" (Wanderer). The first tune "Staya" (Flock) is very hard from the first. And I also like slow melody in the fifth tune "Vek moy, zver'" (My lifetime, beast). The last tune "Do svidaniya" (Goodbye) is also a good instrumental. After Sergey Mavrin released this album, he made albums under his name "SERGEY MAVRIN".
My degree of satisfaction: ****

MAVRIN

Outline

Sound Recordings

NEFORMAT 2
Since this album, the group name was changed from "SERGEY MAVRIN" to "MAVRIN". This is a mini CD with multimedia video sections. CD 1 contains 4 tunes and 8 video clips on CD Plus format. A vocalist has changed Andrey Lefler into Artyom Stirov again. And a bassist and a drummer have changed, too. (Andrey Lefler and a drummer Pavel Elkind are acting in the group "Kamelot-Z". A bassist Alexandr Shvets has formed the new project MY UNIVERSE and is acting there.) The first "DUSHA" (SOUL) is a cool heavy metal tune. The second tune "UTOLI MOI PECHALI" (SLAKE MY GRIEF) is calm, but I feel warm atmosphere. The next "DAY RUKU MNE" (GIVE ME YOUR HAND) is an old tune, but it's good. This tune was covered in English by the group The ARROW. And the last tune is an instrumental version of the second one. I like these audio tracks very much! CD 2 contains 3 video clips with a rehearsal performance as a bonus. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)
Moya svoboda (My freedom)
This full-length album contains "Dusha" (Soul) and "Utoli moi pechali" (Slake my grief) from the previous mini CD. We can listen to good music as ever. I like this album very much! As bonus clips, "Utoli moi pechali" of 2 versions has been contained. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus and digibook format in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2011)

M.D.P.

Outline

Sound Recording

Russkiy patriot (Russian patriot)
This third album is characterized by cheap and simple sounds. They have sung patriotism to Russia with hard punk rock. I don't know their patriotism well. And the sounds are weak. Released from LONDON RECORDS (Russia) on MC in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: *

Melnitsa

Outline

Sound Recordings

Doroga sna (Way of dream)
This is the first full-length album of Melnitsa that consists of 12 tunes. They play acoustic music with influences of Celtic, Scandinavian and Russian folk music. And they have used a cello, a flute, a violin, acoustic guitars and so on. Helavisa, who is a female vocalist of this band and has also created music and lyrics, sings with powerful voices. Their harmonious sounds are great. And as a whole, this album has dark atmosphere. Especially, I like "Zmey" (Dragon). Released from CD Land Records (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Pereval (Mountain pass)
This second album that consists of 11 tunes is also good. This album became lighter than the previous one. Male vocals have been also used. "Fuga" and "Golem" are instrumental tunes. Released in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Zov Krovi (The Call Of Blood)
The third album that consists of 14 songs. All songs have been sung by female vocals. This album is also good. The last two tunes are bonus tracks. Released in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Dikie travi (Wild grasses)
They play easy-to-listen folk music. Many instruments have been used and appear good relish. Released from Navigator Records in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

MOBY DICK

Outline

Sound Recording

Balladi Volch'ikh stay (The Ballads of a pack of Wolves)
This is the debut album of MOBY DICK. Their music is traditional heavy metal with good melodies and strong riffs. And as a whole, this album is good. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (March/April 2007)

MONOMAKH

Outline

Sound Recordings

MONOMAKH
Their first album. It's characterized by melodious sounds. They play Christian rock. The music is good. Released from Melodia (Russia) on LP in 1989.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
YA KHOTEL UVIDET' ANGELA (I WANTED TO SEE AN ANGEL)
The 2nd album of MONOMAKH. "Night The Queen", "I Wanted To See An Angel" and "Without You" are slow tunes and their melodies are beautiful. Released from RDM on CD in 1993.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

NAHEMAH

Outline

Sound Recording

Esli gorit polnochnaya zvezda (If the midnight star is burning)
This is the debut album of NAHEMAH. I feel the strong influence from CRADLE OF FILTH. In fact, vocals are similar to Dani Filth, and speedy melodies are similar to CRADLE OF FILTH. So they may be able to say "Russian CRADLE OF FILTH". And melodious sounds are by keyboards. But female vocals and the chorus haven't been used. And drums are light and the sound quality isn't also good. This album isn't powerful very much. And all lyrics are in Russian. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ** [Oleg POZDEEV] (September/October 2003)

NASLEDIE VAGANTOV

Outline

Sound Recordings

Taverna (Pub)
This is the debut album of NASLEDIE VAGANTOV. I hear that their music has been influenced by IN EXTREMO and TROLL BENDS FIR. They play folk metal and folk rock with a flute and a bagpipe. Cachy melodies are very good! Released from SoundAge Productions (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
RVOTNIY POROSHOK (VOMITTED POWDER)
This EP consists of 3 songs. I'm interested in all songs very much! Self-released in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Dva Vorona (Two Ravens)
This EP consists of 6 tunes. It's good. Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

NATISK

Outline

Sound Recordings

Odinokiy Geroy (Lonely Hero)
The first album of NATISK. They play old style hard rock or heavy metal. The music is melodious and good. When I listen to the songs "Natisk" and "Beglets" (The Fugitive), I'm reminded of ARIA's sounds. "Ya budu zhdat'" (I'll Wait For You) is a good ballad. And "Kazhdiy chas" (Hour After Hour) is a cool heavy metal tune. The last song "Svoboden kak ptitsa" (Free As A Bird) is a bonus track. Released from MOROZ Records (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2003)
NEVO V OGNE (The Sky In The Fire)
The style is like ARIA, but I wasn't completely satisfied with this album. The 1st song "V POLNEBA" (To Half The Sky) is the best! The 7th song "GLOTOK SVOBODI" (A Swallow Of Freedom) is also good. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format with a catalog of CD-MAXIMUM in 2004. (Only for sale in Russia, CIS countries and the Baltic States.)
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2004)
VTOROE DIKHANIE (ENERGY)
This 3rd album is in the vein of IRON MAIDEN, powerful and melodious. All tunes are good. The last instrumental tune "Visokoe napryazhenie" (High tension) is speedy and cool! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format with three bonus video clips in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2006)

NAV'

Outline

Sound Recordings

IZ NAVI V YAV' (FROM THE GHOST TO REALITY)
This is the first demo tape that consists of 4 tunes. The sound quality is too bad, but speedy and aggressive melody is good. Released from ZIMARGLA POWER PRODUCTION (Russia) in 1997.
My degree of satisfaction: **
GIMN KHOLODNOMU BEZMOLVIYU (HYMN TO THE COLD SILENCE)
This consists of 7 tunes. The sound quality is bad. And I'm not interested in this composition very much. Released from ZIMARGLA POWER PRODUCTION (Russia) on MC in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: **
WE ARE THE NORTH
This is a split CD of OLD WAINDS and NAV'. NAV's tunes are from the 5th to the 11th and have titled "GIMN KHOLODNOMU BEZMOLVIYU" (Hymn to the Cold Silence). Shortly, the previous MC became CD. The sound quality is worse than OLD WAINDS. And I'm not interested in those tunes very much. Released from Miriquidi Productions (Germany) and CITY OF THE DEAD Records (Germany) in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: **
Chertogi Smerti (Hall Of Death)
The sound quality became good. Tunes are speedy, but they aren't good very much. Released from MIRIQUIDI Productions (Germany) and CITY OF THE DEAD Records (Germany) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Volch'e Solntse (The Wolf's Sun)
The music is black metal with thrash metal influences. Tunes are speedy. Released from Forever Plagued Records (US) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

NEBOKRAJ

Outline

Sound Recording

Na rubezhe (At the boundary)
The first album. The music is like TEMNOZOR', but this band plays pagan black metal with speedy melodies and a flute. It's good. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia), Schwarze Tod and Au-To-Dafe on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2010)

NEMOLYAEV / SELEZNYOV

Outline

Sound Recording

MYORTVIE DUSHI (DEAD SOULS)
This is the first album of the project by Kirill Nemolyaev and Constantin Seleznyov. The style is modern metal that contains melodious parts. Melodious parts are similar to FACTOR STRAHA. I like the title tune and "Predavat'" (Betray). And the choruses of "Nenastupivshee Utro" (The Morning That Didn't Come) and "Starost'" (Old Age), too. Released from Mystic Empire (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Anjeli K.] (July/August 2008)
"DARK CITY": *** [1010] (September/October 2008)

NEP

Outline

Sound Recording

ENTSIKLOPEDIYA ROSSIYSKOVO ROKA NEP (ENCYCLOPEDIA OF RUSSIAN ROCK NEP)
This album is a collection edition that consists of 18 songs. This band plays old style rock music. A sax has been also used and that's cool! I also like a silent song "CHUZHAYA" (STRANGER). The booklet has descriptions of the band's discography and history. Released from GRAND RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

NEVID'

Outline

Sound Recordings

ZOV NOVOY GIPERBOREI
I think that the title means "Call of the new hyperborean". This first album was recorded between May and August 2005 at DAI Records. Aven of BUTTERFLY TEMPLE has also taken part in this recording. Their music is similar to BUTTERFLY TEMPLE and melodious and powerful. As a whole, this album is great! Released from Irond (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2005, including a video clip and photos.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (January/February 2006)
Yarga
The title means the older name of the sun's symbol, existing in certain Slavic tribes, basically in the Russian north. (from "DARK CITY" March/April 2007.) Their music is powerful. It's good! Released from Irond (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2007, including a document of PDF format, a video about this album recording and photos.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Yantarnoe Serdtse Arktidi (The Amber Heart of Arktida)
"Arktida" means the hypothetical northern polar continent presumably existed in the geological past. Some members have changed. After Kseniya and Nikita Andriyanov left this band, they formed and are acting in a folk metal band KALEVALA. In this album, songs were composed by Arsafes and the music style has changed a little. But the music is powerful and good. Released from Metalism Records (Russia) on limited CD of CD Plus format in 2009, including a document of PDF format and photos.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)
RASSVET ZARATUSTRI (DAWN OF ZOROASTER)
This Internet single consists of 4 songs. Zoroaster is a Persian religious reformer about 600 B.C. and the founder of Zoroastrianism. The music is good. Especially, I like "Mogilka" (Grave). Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
agarta
"Agarta" is a legendary city that is said to reside in the crust of the Earth. In this album, a female vocalist, a viola and flute player have added, and I also feel elements of folk metal. It's very good music. The first track contains a video, a document of PDF format and lots of photos as computer data. The music starts from the second track. This album also contains the title song from the previous single. And the last track also contains the song "va va va". Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

NOVAYA MODEL'

Outline

Sound Recording

KILLER
This debut album is very good! And this contains a video clip. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (September/October 2011)

Oleg Gusev

Outline

Sound Recording

Fantazm (Phantasm)
This is a solo album of Oleg Gusev that was released in 1994. All tunes are instrumental and very great!! After this, Oleg Gusev is working as a video producer of pop musicians.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

OLEG MISHIN

Outline

Sound Recordings

Angel
This is the debut solo album of Oleg Mishin (Oleg Mission) who is a guitarist and composer of ex-END ZONE and CATHARSIS. He has composed and sung. His vocals are very good. And he plays guitars, a flute and keyboards. As a whole, this album is melodious and is very great!! The last two tunes are bonus tracks and the last tune is an Ukrainian version of the third tune. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD of limited digibook format in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2008)
Bestiya (Beast)
This mini album is also very good! Especially, "Sodom" is cool! And this album contains a video clip "Mim" (Clownery). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

OLVY

Outline

Sound Recordings

T'MA I SVET (DARKNESS AND LIGHT)
The debut album. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2007)
POSLEDNEE NEBO (THE LAST SKY)
The second album. Mastering has been held in Sweden. They play heavy metal or power metal. Fast songs are good, but the others aren't good very much. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew Korukhin] (May/June 2009)
SKAZOCHNIY SON (FAIRYTALE DREAM)
This is a maxi-single that consists of 5 songs. The music is normal. In the song "Teni" (Shadows), Maxim Samosvat has sung. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

OMELA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Sled Moy (My Trace)
This single consists of 3 tunes. All tunes are very good! The last tune "Viscum" is an instrumental tune. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
viscum album
The debut album of OMELA. This contains all songs of the previous single "Sled Moy" (My Trace). As a whole, this album has good and dark atmosphere. Released from AILANO-studio (Russia) on limited CD of digibook format in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2010)
chionodoxa
This maxi single consists of 3 songs. This single was mixed in Nicosia (Cyprus) and mastered in UK. A viola and a flute have been also used. All songs are in Russian and very good! Released on the Internet in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
aura
This 2nd full-length album was also mixed in Nicosia (Cyprus) and mastered in UK. A bassist has changed. All songs are in Russian and very good! Released from AILANO-studio (Russia) on limited CD of digibook format in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2011)

ORGIA PRAVEDNIKOV

Outline

Sound Recordings

OGLASHENNIE IZIDITE (CATECHUMEN, DEPART)
This is the first studio album of ORGIA PRAVEDNIKOV. This music is rock of an unique style and it's characterized by a flute and good vocals. You can listen to heavy guitar sounds as well. This album is just ethnic rock music and cool! Released from KOLOKOL on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (October 2001)
POSLEDNIY VOIN MYORTVOY ZEMLI (THE LAST WARRIOR OF THE DEAD LAND)
This is a single that consists of one song. It's very good rock music! Released in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
DVERI! DVERI! (THE DOORS! THE DOORS!)
This is the second studio album. The first title tune and the last tune "Devyat' zhizney k vostoku ot Raya vozle krasnikh kholmov" (Nine lives to the east from the Paradise near the red hills) are instrumental ones and they are good! "REX" contains male and female chorus. "Vozvrashchenie v Neapol'" (Return to Naples) is a calm song, but it's good. "Adel'" (Adel) is like a folk song and it's unique. "Nichego net prekrasnee cmerti!" (Nothing is more wonderful than death!) is also good. Released in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
UKHODYASHCHEE SOLNTSE (THE FADING SUN)
The third studio album. The first title tune is an instrumental one and it's good. I like all songs except the second and tenth songs. This album is great! Self-released on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2007)
Dlya tekh, kto vidit sni Vol.1 (For those who see dreams Vol.1)
This album is also very good! I like "Gimn" (Hymn), "Shkola mudrosti" (School of wisdom), "The catcher in the rye", "Beloe na belom" (White on white) and "Put' vo l'dakh" (The way in ices) very much! Self-released on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Yulian SHILLING] (May/June 2010)

ORION

Outline

Sound Recording

Amadeus
This Internet single consists of 3 songs. They play good power metal with elements of symphonic and neoclassical music. It's a pity that there aren't speedy parts. Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

PILIGRIM

Outline

Sound Recordings

Slava Rossii (Hail to Russia)
The group PILIGRIM had been formed by Moscow's students on 1970's, but they had ended soon. And in 2004 a vocalist Andrey Kovalyov formed the group again. In this first album, PILIGRIM plays traditional heavy metal. Especially, I like the title tune very much. And this also contains a song playing with MASTER. This album contains catchy melodies and as a whole it's good. And this also contains three bonus clips. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2007. And rereleased from Misteria Zvuka (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (November/December 2007)
Vibora net (There is no choice)
In this second album, all members except a vocalist Andrey Kovalyov have changed. And Alexey Strike has become an official guitarist. The music style is more powerful than the previous album and it's good. All members except Kovalyov have taken part in this album as backing vocalists. In this album, I like "Ne gacite svechu" (Don't put out a candle) and "Tol'ko vperyod" (Only forward) very much. APOCALYPTICA has taken part in the song "Iuda" (Judas). And Kseniya (a vocalist of VOLNAYA STAYA) has taken part in the song "Kara" (Punishment). The last live song "Pamyati Viktora Tsoya" (Memories of Victor Tsoi) is a bonus track and this is also very good. Released from 1Rock Records (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)
TRIZI$
I don't know the title's meaning. This single consists of 3 songs, 2 live tunes and 2 videos as bonus tracks. It's good. Released from 1Rock Records (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2009)
7.62
This album isn't traditional heavy metal and is modern heavy metal. Almost songs have been composed by Alexey Strike. I don't like this album very much. The last song "BOGI NEBA" (Gods of the sky) is a bonus track and a cover of PILIGRIM by the group DOROGI OSENI. Released from 1Rock Records (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2010)
Marta
This album is 2CD, and CD1 consists of 20 songs (there are 5 bonus tracks) and CD2 consists of 15 songs. The style of CD1 is hard rock and it's very good! The style of CD2 is heavier and it's not bad. Released from Nikitin (Russia) in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

Image Material

Kontsert pod dozhdyom (A concert under the rain)
This DVD contains a concert on June 28, 2008. This format of DVD is all regions. I'm not interested in drums and guitar solo very much, but as a whole this concert is good. The total time is 1 hour 59 minutes. And the bonus DVD contains huge materials such as video clips. The total time is 2 hours 44 minutes. Released from 1Rock Records (Russia) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2009)

Polynove Pole

Outline

Sound Recording

Na semi veetrakh (On the seven winds)
They play gothic metal featuring female vocals. All lyrics are in Ukrainian. The music is characterized by female vocals, growl male vocals and elements of doom metal. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

PUT' SOLNTSA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Pobeditel' vsegda ostayotsya odin (The winner is always the one)
The debut album. A bassist is Belf from ASHEN LIGHT. And many musicians from Russian metal bands have taken part in this recording. The style is pagan thrash metal with elements of death metal. I like speedy parts very much! Released from 1Rock Records (Russia) on CD Plus format of DIGIPAK format with 2 bonus videos in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)
veter (wind)
A guitarist and a drummer have changed. (A drummer is Andrey Ishchenko.) This 2nd album is good! Released from MUSICA Production (Russia) on CD in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2011)

RADIUS

Outline

Sound Recording

Poteryanniy mir (The lost world)
They play modern metal with male and female vocals. Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

RAROG

Outline

Sound Recording

Az' Boga vedayu! (I know the God!)
They play Slavonic pagan metal with female vocals and elements of folk metal. Released from SvaSound Records (Russia) in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2008)

REANIMATSIYA

Outline

Sound Recording

Kharakternik
The second album. They play power metal with Slavonic folk music and patriotic lyrics. Elements of folk music appear sometimes and there aren't speedy parts very much. But male vocals that sing his heart out are very great! The first tune "Pis'mo" (Letter) is very cool! Acoustic melody in the fifth tune "Kozats'ka" is like folk music and very good! Also Valery Naumov (IVAN TZAREVICH) has taken part in the last tune "Korol'" (King) as a guest vocalist. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

REVELATIONS OF RAIN

Outline

Sound Recording

emanatsiya nenavisti (emanation Of hatred)
They play down-tempo metal music characterized by dark melodies and death voices. It's good. Released from Solitude Productions (Russia) on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2010)

RONDO

Outline

Sound Recordings

DOBRO POZHALOVAT' V "RAY" (WELCOME TO "PARADISE")
The tunes of this album are like American hard rock. Released from Triariy (Russia) on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
BALLADI (BALLADS)
All tunes of this album are ballads. I feel that RONDO plays ballads very well. "Can't help falling in love" is a cover tune of Elvis Presley. Released from Becar Records (Russia) on CD in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

RUSICH

Outline

Sound Recordings

V VEEKAKH TISYACHOLEET' (IN CENTURIES OF MILLENIA)
RUSICH's debut album. Vocals are like SOKYRA PERUNA and Whites Load. The first and last tunes are very cool instrumental ones. The second tune is a very good melodic pagan metal tune. And the fourth tune is sounds like RAC. As a whole, this album is melodious and very good! Released from Patriot production (Ukraine) on CD-R in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
VELICH BOGIV U NASHKH SERTSYAKH (MIGHT OF GODS IN OUR HEARTS)
This album became calm. The second tune is like RAC. The fifth tune "Tomhet" is a cover of BURZUM and it's calm ambient music. And the seventh tune is also ambient. The last tune "The Ukrainian Patriot" is a hidden bonus track and it's a cover of SOKYRA PERUNA. As a whole, this album is very good. Released from ANCIENT NATION Productions (Ukraine) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Sered Lyutikh Bitv (In the savage battles)
This album is also melodious and good. As a whole, this is full of variety. Especially, I like the second tune. Released in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

SABOTAZH

Outline

Sound Recording

MEDNIY BIK (COPPER BULL)
This album consists of 9 tunes. The style is typical heavy metal. But I'm bored very much. Released from ARIA RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: *
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (April/May 2002)

SatanaKozyol

Outline

Sound Recordings

ROGATIYA
The 1st full-length album. Male vocals are like death voices of Masha "Scream" (ARKONA). Speedy parts are very cool and as a whole this album is very good! Folk instruments have been also used. This album was released from SOUND AGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on CD of limited DIGIPAK format in 2008. And this was also released from Varjot Productions (Finland) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
SOLNTSE MYORTVIKH (THE SUN OF THE DEAD)
This 2nd full-length album is also very good! Especially, I like the sixth song "Banya" (Sauna)! The seventh song "Musta mado" is a cover of Myllärit. Self-released on CD in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

SERGEY ABOLYMOV

Outline

Sound Recording

LYUBOV' UBIVAET (LOVE KILLS)
This album consists of 14 tunes. The music style is heavy metal like OZZY OSBOURNE. And all songs have been sung in Russian, except the 13th one "Come Together" (this is a cover song of Beatles). It's just "Russian Ozzy". I like any tunes. "Ti dryan'" (You bastard) is a cover song of GOTTHARD's "She goes down". Self-released on CD in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (April/May 2002)

Sergey Kalugin

Outline

Sound Recording

nigredo
The first solo album of Sergey Kalugin. Vocals and an acoustic guitar are by Sergey Kalugin. Among sonnets, they play very hot Russian rock music. Released from MDC Records (Belgium) on CD in 1994. In 1999 Sergey Kalugin created a group ORGIA PRAVEDNIKOV.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

SERGEY MAVRIN

Outline

Sound Recordings

KHIMICHESKIY SON (CHEMICAL DREAM)
All members of MAVRICK except Sergey Mavrin had been changed and this album was released. I feel this music became much heavier than MAVRICK and just heavy metal. Vocals of Artyom Stirov are like German metal. And many lyrics have been written by Margarita Pushkina, who is a lyricist of ARIA. According to Sergey Mavrin's words, this is a "philosophical album". (from "DARK CITY" March 2001.) The lyrics and music remind me of the ARIA's style since the latter half of 1990s. But this music has peculiar atmosphere to Sergey Mavrin and is very cool!! Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Yura "Surgeon"] (February/March 2002)
Odinochestvo (Loneliness)
This album contains ballads from albums that Sergey Mavrin released in the past. Not only all tunes have been picked up, but they have been remastered. And some tunes have been re-recorded. All tunes are in unity through this album and it's great! Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2002 (for sale in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and Baltic States only).
My degree of satisfaction: *****
ZAPRESHCHONNAYA REAL'NOST' (FORBIDDEN REALITY)
This album is also filled with sounds peculiar to Sergey Mavrin. When I listen to this album, I'm surprised at his talent and possibility of heavy metal. At this time, drums are more powerful than the previous albums. The title tune is an instrumental and cool! This album is really very great!! Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (March/April 2004)
OBRATNAYA STORONA REAL'NOSTI (OPPOSITE SIDE OF REALITY)
This is a mini CD that consists of 4 tunes. A bassist has changed Alexey Kharkov into Alexandr Shvets. As usual, this album is also filled with sounds peculiar to Sergey Mavrin. All songs are very good! The last instrumental tune "Kril'ya" (Wings) is also cool! And this album contains 58 photos of Sergey Mavrin and so on. Released from Irond (Russia) in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [1010] (March/April 2005)
OTKROVENIE (REVELATION)
In this album, a vocalist has changed Artyom Stirov into Andrey Lefler. But the quality of vocals is good. As a whole this album is also good. The 2nd tune "Vol'naya ptitsa" (Free bird) is speedy and cool! The 5th and 6th tunes that have been contained in the previous mini CD are also very good. And the last two tunes are bonus tracks. In limited edition of digibook format, it contains a bonus video clip of "Vol'naya ptitsa" (Free bird). Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2006)
LIVE
This is a live album and consists of 2 CDs. This album seems to contain best songs. The songs are good, but I'm bored a little. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2007)
FORTUNA (FORTUNE)
This is an instrumental album that consists of 2 CDs. And this contains many new tunes and the past tunes. The music isn't only guitars, so I'm not bored. His tunes are cool! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2007. (After this, the group name was changed into "MAVRIN".)
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2007)

Image Material

MADE IN PITER (MADE IN St.Petersburg)
This DVD contains a concert at ROCKS CLUB in St.Petersburg on October 28, 2006. Mavrin's performance isn't fancy, but it's great! And all tunes are also very good. The limited edition of digibook format consists of 2 DVDs. The one is the live DVD and the other is the bonus DVD. The bonus DVD contains histories of Sergey Mavrin and photos. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2008)

SEVERNIE VRATA

Outline

Sound Recordings

OTCHIZNA (FATHERLAND)
This first album was recorded by three members. I feel they have good sense about music. But the songs are weak. Released from FONO (Russia) on CD in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: **
NA VOYNU (TO THE WAR)
In this second album, a drummer, a guitarist and female keyboard player have added. And the music became good a little. As a whole, this album isn't speedy and powerful. But the first song is cool! Released from FONO (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: **
PRAV'
I think this title means "Rule" or "Govern". A drummer has changed. The music style is like viking metal. It's characterized by clear vocals and keyboards. And this album became speedy and powerful than the previous ones. Produced by Anssi Kippo. Released from FONO (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ** [Oleg POZDEEV] (July/August 2003)
RAVNOVESIE (BALANCE)
In this recording, members expect a vocalist and a bassist have changed. Sounds are powerful, but keyboards became moderate. This album consists of 8 tunes and the total time is about 32 minutes. Released from FONO (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2005)
VOLOT (WARRIOR)
A guitarist and a drummer have changed. This album is a conceptual album, but the music is halfway. Released from SOUNDAGE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: **

SHMELY

Outline

Sound Recordings

Moskovskaya Yarmarka Udovol'stviy (Moscow Amusement Fair)
This album is characterized by male and female vocals and the music like gothic metal. The last 3 tunes are bonus tracks. Released on the Internet in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
TSEKH PO REABILITATSII PARANOIKOV (FACTORY OF REHABILITATION OF PARANOIACS)
They play industrial metal with male and female vocals. I don't like this music very much. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: **

SHTRIKHKOD

Outline

Sound Recording

SHTRIKHKOD
This debut album contains elements of rap, but I don't like this music very much. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: **

SIMVOL VERI

Outline

Sound Recording

SIMVOL VERI (SYMBOL OF BELIEF)
This album consists of 8 tracks, which has been arranged Cossack folk songs for hard rock very well. I like "SHLYAKH-DOROZHKA" (STREET-LANE) and "NE DLYA MENYA" (NOT FOR ME). Released from TAU Product (Russia) on CD in 1994.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Another review: TOO MUCH MUSIC SITE (Japanese)

SLIDE SHOW

Outline

Sound Recording

SLAYD SHOU (SLIDE SHOW)
This is a synth gothic album featuring a female vocalist. It's characterized by pop and catchy sounds. I heard that their sounds are imaged RAMMSTEIN mixed with t.A.T.u.. The second tune "LAGI" is very cool! I like "ZEMLYA" (EARTH), too. The other tunes is also good. Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Georgich] (July/August 2007)

SLOT

Outline

Sound Recordings

SLOT 1
This is the first album of SLOT. CACHE aka Igor Lobanov (ex-END ZONE) is a MC. The music is characterized by female vocals, elements of rap music by male (CACHE's) vocals, heavy sounds and computer's ones. Especially, I like "PREDATEL'SKAYA" (TREACHEROUS). All lyrics are in Russian. Released from Mysteria Publishing (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
2 VOYNI (2 WARS)
The 2nd album. The style is as the same as the previous album, but I feel that parts of rap music have increased. I like the title tune and a bonus track "AMADEUS (feat. Kirill Nemolyaev)". The first edition was released on CD in 2004. And the reissue CD released from EM i NEM (Russia) in 2007 contains MP3 files without vocals, lyrics, a video clip of the title tune and so on. The CD of DIGIPAK format was released with 2 live tunes in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
TRINITI (TRINITY)
This third album has been produced by Kirill Nemolyaev. The heavy music is good. The third tune "Uritsa Roz" (Rose Street) is a cover of ARIA. Especially, I like "Myortvie Zvyozdi" (Dead Stars). Moreover I like "Koma" (Coma), "Do Desyati..." (Till 10...), "Ot Zakata Do Rassveta" (From Sunset To Dawn) and "Nad Propast'yu Vo Lzhi" (Over Abyss In The Lie). And this CD contains photos, lyrics, MP3 files of karaoke version and a video clip "Myortvie Zvyozdi" (Dead Stars). Released from Mysteria + (Russia) on CD-Extra format in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
KiSLOTa - Pervaya kaplya (Acid is the first drop)
SLOT's remixes. This album isn't heavy as the previous albums, but contains many good tunes. Released in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Alfa-Romeo + Beta-Dzhulietta (Alfa-Romeo + Betta-Juliette)
This is the SLOT's first internet single that contains 3 tunes. The first title tune is powerful and very cool! The next tune "Lya-lya" (La La) is calm, but good. And the last tune is a remix version by ROMAN RAIN of the title tune. This is also very cool! Released on January 20, 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
A.n.i.m.e.
The second internet single that consists of 3 tunes. This isn't bad. Released on April 22, 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
4ever
This album has been produced by Kirill Nemolyaev. The music is very good! From the previous singles, this album contains "Al'fa Romeo + Beta Dzhul'etta" (Alpha Romeo + Beta Juliette) and "Lya-lya" (La La). Released from M2 (Russia) on CD in 2009. The first limited edition is double DIGIPAK format and consists of an audio-CD and a CD-ROM. CD-ROM contains lyrics, 10 bonus tunes, MP3 files of karaoke version, photos, a video clip and a making of "Angel O.K.".
My degree of satisfaction: *****

Image Material

LIVE & VIDEO
This DVD contains a concert of Trinity Tour in Ekaterinburg on February 16, 2008 and 4 video clips. Their performance is powerful and good. And this DVD also contains ARIA's "Uritsa Roz" (Rose Street). Released from AiBRECORDS (Russia) in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

SMERSH

Outline

Sound Recording

Vek Chumi (The Century Of Pest)
The debut album. The music isn't good very much. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: **

SOKYRA PERUNA

Outline

Sound Recordings

the best of 1997-2001
This album consists of 14 tracks. Tracks 1-7 was recorded in 1998, tracks 8-10 was recorded in 1999 and tracks 11-13 was recorded in 2001. The name of the 14th track hasn't been written on a cover. The music style of this album is hard punk rock and it seems to be similar to KORROZIA METALLA. Skinheads national socialists have sung patriotism to Ukraine and so on. I can't understand their themes very well and I'm not interested in music of this album very much. The sound quality is bad. Released from EastSide Records (Poland) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: **
for all we have and are
This 3rd album also consists of 14 tracks. The 13th track contains classical music. The sound quality is good and any songs aren't bad. The themes are the same as the previous album. The title of this tape album is "Perunova Rat'" (Perun's Army). This CD was released from EastSide Records (Poland) in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

SONS OF NORTH

Outline

Sound Recording

Orliniy Vzor (Eagle Gaze)
This is the second album. The music is characterized by evil vocals like OLD WAINDS and cold melodies. Released from Schutstaffel Records on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

SOYUZ

Outline

Sound Recordings

UCHITEL' USPEKHA (TEACHER OF SUCCESS)
This is the album of SOYUZ (Igor Romanov and his group). Romanov's vocals and guitars are great. He has created music very well. Released from Melodia (Russia) in 1987.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
KRASNIY SVET (RED LIGHT)
This is also the album of SOYUZ. Keyboards have been also used and the music is melodic rock. The melody of "Streli" (Arrows) is very cool! The first edition was released from Melodia (Russia) in 1990. The reissue CD was added 3 tunes and released in 1995.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

STAYA

Outline

Sound Recording

STRANA L'DOV (A COUNTRY OF ICES)
They play heavy metal music like ARIA. The music is heavy, but I don't like it very much. The mastering has been held in Finnvox Studio by Mika Jussila. Released from FONO (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)

SVARGA

Outline

Sound Recording

SIMVOL VOLEE (SYMBOL OF THE FREEDOM)
The title and all songs except the 3rd tune is in Ukraine. The 3rd tune is an instrumental. As a whole, this album is melodious, but sounds aren't good very much. And vocals are like typical black metal. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Oleg POZDEEV] (January/February 2005)

SVARGA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Ogni na kurganakh (Flames on hills)
This album was recorded at CDM Records studio of Lazar (ROSSOMAHAAR). An accordion has been used. The music isn't fast, but it's near BUTTERFLY TEMPLE. Masha "Scream" has also taken part in this album as a vocalist a little. This album is good. Released from SvaSound Records (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
Tam, gde dremlyut lesa... (There, where woods doze...)
In this album, besides an accordion, a tambourine, flutes and a zhaleyka have been used. I also feel elements of folk metal. And Masha "Scream" has also taken part in this album as a vocalist. As a whole, this album is good. Released from SvaSound Records (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)
KROV' - REKA (BLOOD IS A RIVER)
A pagan folk album without elements of metal music. Many instruments, such as acoustic guitars, a balalaika, an accordion, a vargan, a cello, bagpipes, zhaleikas, flutes, a tambourine, a viola and a violin, have been used. The emotional melodies are very good! And this album contains a video, too. Released from SvaSound Records (Russia) on extra limited CD Plus format of velvet digibook format (555 copies) in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2010)

SVYATOGOR

Outline

Sound Recording

...With Wolfish Stalk And By Wings Of Black...
This is the debut album that consists of 6 tunes. Drums are light, but guitars are heavy and speedy melodies are good. The first edition was self-released in 2005. And the reissued edition was released from Blazing Productions (Netherlands) on CD, limited to 1000 copies, in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

TALION

Outline

Sound Recording

Khaos Emotsiy (Chaos of Emotion)
The debut album. They play power metal featuring female vocals. But I don't like this music very much. Self-released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: **

TEATR TENEY

Outline

Sound Recordings

ZVER' (BEAST)
They play heavy metal in the vein of ARIA. This album is very good. Especially, I like "Belaya Volchitsa" (White She-wolf), "Oryol" (Eagle) and "Volki" (Wolves). The last track also contains an English song. And as a bonus, this album contains a video clip. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2006)
Capoeira
In the beginning, I don't like this music very much. After that, it becomes normal. But it isn't good, so it's a pity. This album contains a bonus video. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2008)

TELA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Svobodnaya lyubov' (Free love)
This is the first official album. They play Russian love rock. This album contains many catchy tunes. They are good. And this album also contains three bonus video clips. Released from Misteriya Publishing (Russia) on CD-Extra format in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
LAVA
This album is also good love rock. Especially, I like "Geroin" (Heroin). Released from Irond (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [1010] (January/February 2009)

TEMNOJAR

Outline

Sound Recordings

Echo of Hyperborea
This is a split CD with SIEG. This is an English version of the demo that was recorded between 1999 and 2002 and the music is a symphonic art without vocals. The music may be able to call "Russian MUNRUTHEL". I like those melodies. Released from Autistiartili Records (Canada) on CD in 2003, limited to 500 copies.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Hyperborean Dylogy
This album contains Part 1 "Echo of Hyperborea", Part 2 "Kriegersweg" and a bonus track. Part 1 is the same as the previous album "Echo of Hyperborea". Part 2 has been created in 2002, and the tunes "Kriegersweg" and "Sons Of Hyperborea" are with vocals. All tunes are beautiful and I feel NS ambient strongly. The bonus track "Norvegian Wolf" was recorded in 2005. Released from Evil Barber Records (Ukraine) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
NORDSCAPES
This album consists of 3 parts. The first part is EP "Ultima Thule" recorded in 2002 and the next part is EP "Nordlight Generator" recorded in 2003. The last part "First Steps... Cold Rites..." consists of two tunes recorded in 2000-2001 and one tune recorded in 2007. As a whole, this album is good. Released from Valgriind (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

TEMNOZOR'

Outline

Sound Recordings

Vedovstvom krepka Chernaya Slava Rusi (Sorcery is Strengthening the Black Glory of Rus')
This tape album is characterized by painful guitars, a flute, clear and screaming voices. The music style is melodious black pagan metal. The lyrics express pride and sorrowful hatred of Russian ancient gods. I like strong vocals in the first tune, and emotional melodies in the third and eighth tunes. But drums are weak. The style of this album seems to be similar to RAKOTH. And P. Noir (from RAKOTH) have taken part in this album as a flute player Rabitor. The titles of the fifth and sixth tunes have been written conversely. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) in 1999.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Fragmenti (Fragments)
This is a mini album, which consists of 5 tunes. The music style is slow tempo and is very different from the previous album. Vocals are also different style. The second tune has contained elements of metal music, but I'm bored. Other tunes are like dark ambient and I like them. Created in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
Sorcery of Fragments
This CD contains all tunes of the debut demo "Vedovstvom krepka Chernaya Slava Rusi" (Sorcery is Strengthening the Black Glory of Rus') and the mini album "Fragmenti" (Fragments). All songs have been sung in Russian, but on a booklet lyrics have been written in English. This CD was released from Hakenkreuz Productions (US) in 2002. Russian edition was released from Stellar Winter Records in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Oleg POZDEEV] (September/October 2004)
Another review: It's So Easy (Japanese)
Gorizonti... (Horizons...)
The second full-length album. I hear Kaldrad (BRANIKALD, FOREST) and members of WOODS OF FALLEN have taken part in this recording. The music style is pagan folk metal. A flute has been used. I like the second tune "WEREWOLF", but I feel other ones are normal. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2003. And also released from Ascent Records (Canada) and EastSide Records (Poland) on CD with the English title in 2003. And rereleased from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Oleg POZDEEV] (July/August 2003)
VOL'NITSEY V PROSIN' NOCHEY (FOLKSTORM OF THE AZURE NIGHTS)
It's characterized by sounds near the album "Vedovstvom krepka Chernaya Slava Rusi" (Sorcery is Strengthening the Black Glory of Rus'). But a flute doesn't have been used very much. Especially, I like the aggressive 1st title tune and the 3rd tune "Gde Nebes Lazur' Razrivaet Serdtsa" (Where the Lazure Skies Tear the Hearts Apart), and the dark last tune "Chto zh Vi, Zori Rosnie, Utrom V Krov' Bagryanites'" (Tell me, ye Scarlet Dewscented Sunrises). As a whole, this album became better than the previous one. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2005. And the English version was also released.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2005)
Urochishcha Snov (Haunted Dreamscapes)
They play pagan folk metal with dark atmosphere. A flute has been also used. The dark and slow melodies are good. I like "Serdtse zhuravlinikh prostorov" (Heart of crane distance) and "Zamrite, vetra polevie" (Silent be the wind). Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2010. (The first edition is digibook format.) And the English version was released from EastSide Records (Poland) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2010)

Image Material

Sumerki na Pokhoronakh Zimi (Twilights on The Winter Funeral)
This DVD contains a concert in the festival "Pokhoroni Zimi" (Winter Funeral) in Moscow on April 4, 2009. Camera works are good and the songs are also good. The limited A5 digibook edition contains the audio CD, too. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2010)

TONKAYA KRASNAYA NIT'

Outline

Sound Recordings

106
This EP consists of 6 songs. All songs are good. Self-released in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
FANK
This single consists of 2 songs. All songs are good. "Bez Tebya (NOD Project remix)" is also a good rock song. Self-released in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
SAUNDTREK MOEY ZHIZNI (SOUNDTRACK OF MY LIFE)
The 1st full-length album. It's good. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
LIVE AT ROCK GENERATION FEST
This consists of 3 live songs. All songs are good. Self-released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
VTOROE YA (THE SECOND I)
The second full-length album. It's good! Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

TRIGLAV

Outline

Sound Recording

When The Sun Is Rising Above The Earth
This is the first full-length album. The music is characterized by black metal music, European folk music and symphonic arrangements. It's speedy and good. Released from CCP-Records (Austria) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (November/December 2006)

TROLL BENDS FIR

Outline

Sound Recordings

TROLL' GNYOT EL' (TROLL BENDS FIR)
Their music is characterized by such merry melodies as to want to dance shouting "Hey, hey!". And their music also contains elements of Northern European folk music. The instruments are a guitar, a whisle, a violin, a mandolin, a bass guitar and drums. Especially, a whisle's sounds are in front. Main vocals are male vocals, but female vocals have been used, too. In this recording, a bassist and a drummer are Boris Senkin and Sergey "White" Voevodin who are members of ex-Nomans Land. All songs have been sung in Russian. This album is good, but the latter half has many calm songs. Released from KAILAS RECORDS (Russia) on CD in 2003.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
PRAZDNIK POKHMELYAYNEN (Hangoverlainen Juhlat)
The music has light atmosphere and a whisle's sounds are in front. A violin, too. This album is very good! Released from Misteria Zvuka (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
KONUNG KHMEL' (KONUNG HOP)
This album seems to be worse than the previous album. The style is folk rock as usual. Self-released in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2007)
1516 / Orden Presvetlogo Khmelya (1516 / The Order of Very Light Hop)
This album isn't bad. Released in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Octoberfest
This album is light and cheerful. "Brat'ya vo Khmelyu" (Brothers in Drinks) is speedy and good! Released in 2010.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Khmyol'nir
This EP consists of 5 songs. I don't know the title's meaning. This EP is very good! Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
Brat'ya vo khmelyu (Brothers in drinks)
This album contains remastered songs of two EPs, "Octoberfest" and "Khmyol'nir", and a bonus track. They play cheerful beer folk metal and it's very good! Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

TROYA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Mir V Ogne (The World On Fire)
The debut full-length album. This music contains good melodies, but I feel that it's halfway. "Krivoe Ozero" (Curved Lake) is an instrumental tune. Released from MUSICA Production (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
VOZDUSHNIE ZAMKI (AIR CASTLES)
The second album. Vocals and melodies are like EPIDEMIA, but are behind EPIDEMIA. "Geroy interneta" (Hero of Internet) is a cool speed metal tune. "Osen'" (Autumn) is an instrumental tune. Released from MUSICA Production (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

TSYRULNIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

Pivnoy Putch (Beer Coup d'état)
This album was recorded in 2001. This album contains Russian songs and 2 English songs. I can't understand the lyrics, but the music is good punk rock. Released from Evil Barber Records (Ukraine) on CD, limited to 500 copies with a handwritten number, in 2003 (for distribution in Ukraine, Russia and Belarus only).
My degree of satisfaction: ****
THOR AGAINST TORAH
The Russian title is "TOR PROTIV TORI". This album contains 15 songs. The sound quality is good and the melodies are also very good. The last 2 songs are bonus tracks. Released from MASKS OFF records on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

TVERD'

Outline

Sound Recording

VSLED ZA SOLNTSEVOROTOM (FOLLOW THE SUN'S WAY)
The first album of TVERD'. They play folk pagan metal. The music is good! Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2009)

VALERIY KIPELOV

Outline

Sound Recording

NOCH V IYULE (NIGHT IN JULY)
This album contains songs taken from ARIA' albums and "cmutnoe vremya" (dark age) that is an album by Kipelov and Mavrin. And almost of them are ballads. I think that if you have all albums of ARIA, you don't need this album. Released from BOLID Records (Ukraine) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

VALKYRIA

Outline

Sound Recordings

mystical mass
This debut album consists of 9 tunes and was released in 1993. They play progressive metal, but I don't like it very much. This rereleased CD was released from Misteriya Publishing (Russia) in 2005 with 3 bonus tracks.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": _ [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2006)
DUMAT' O TEBE (THINK OF YOU)
This album consists of 9 tunes. Members contain Nemolyaev (vocals) of Boney' NeM, Shender (drums) of MASTER, A. Dronov (keyboards) of END ZONE and THE DEMONS. They play industrial metal. Keyboards of Dronov have elements like THE DEMONS. The sound quality is good. But I can't be interested in this music very much. All lyrics have been written by Nemolyaev. And the sound engineerings are by Evgeny Vinogradov of DAI. The design is by Igor Lobanov from END ZONE. Released from MISTERIYA PUBLISHING (Russia) on CD in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (February/March 2002)
POPOLNI RYADI (INCREASE MEMBERS)
They play cyber metal or modern metal. The sound quality is good, but I'm not interested in this music very much. This album was recorded at Dai records. The design is by Igor Lobanov. Released from Mazzar Records (Russia) on CD in 2008.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (May/June 2008)

VANDAL

Outline

Sound Recordings

Chest' i Vernost' (Honor and Fidelity)
A demo that consists of 6 tunes. This is easy-to-listen music, but they are hard-to-understand lyrics for me. Sounds are good. "Doroga v Val'khallu" (The Road To Valhalla) is a cover tune of English RAC band SKREWDRIVER. Self-released.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
PESNI KROVI I POCHVI (SONGS OF BLOOD AND SOIL)
This is an acoustic album released when VANDAL has no drummer. "Arische Kämpfer" is a cover tune of German neo-Nazi rock band LANDSER. Released from Sreli Peruna Productions on MC in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
EVROPA (EUROPE)
This MC consists of 7 tunes. "Nashe Budushchee" (Our Future) is a speedy tune. "Russland - Deutschland" has been sung in German and Russian. Released in 2001.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
SUD'BA MOEY RASI (The Fate of My Race)
I hear Kaldrad (TEMNOZOR', BRANIKALD, FOREST, NITBERG) has taken part in this recording. Almost songs have been contained the previous albums. Sounds are cool! Two cover songs of LANDSER have been also contained. Released from Eastbound Kettletrain Records and Solidarity Records (Russia) on CD.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
OKRUZHYON, NO NE SLOMLEN (SURROUNDED BUT NOT BROKEN)
This album is dedicated to the memory and honor of a brave warrior of White Resistance Dmitry Borovikov (1984-2006). The music is good. Released from B&H Russia Records (Russia) on CD in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

VELIMOR

Outline

Sound Recordings

Vo Slavu Roda! / Ruyan (For the Glory of Our Kin! / Rujan)
This album consists of songs taken from "Vo Slavu Roda!" (For the Glory of Our Kin!) and "Ruyan" (Rujan). The former is the mini album of 2004 and the latter is the demo album of 2001. A flute has been used and the former isn't bad. The 4th song "Gordaya Serbiya" (Proud Serbia) is the cover song of WARHEAD and it's good. The sound quality of the demo album is bad. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: **
"DARK CITY": **** [Oleg POZDEEV] (January/February 2005)
NASLEDIE (ANCESTRY)
A flute has been used and this album isn't bad. The last tune is a bonus track. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

VENDETTA

Outline

Sound Recording

LISH' LYOGKIY PEPEL (ONLY LIGHT ASHES)
This EP consists of 6 songs. The title song is easy-to-listen and very great! Other songs are also powerful and good! "Gryaz'" (Mud) is a cover of ARIA. Released on the Internet in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

VETCHE

Outline

Sound Recording

VETCHE 1
This is a tape album that contains five tunes. The first tune has been recorded as an another edition in the end of Side A. The style of this album is black metal like dark ambient music. The sound quality is bad. Released from SICH Records (Ukraine) in 1998. And rereleased from Nihilward Productions on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: **

VICTOR ZINCHUK

Outline

Sound Recordings

Neoklassika (Neoclassic)
This album is filled with neoclassical sounds and consists of 12 tunes with clear and elegant melodies mainly. Besides composed tunes by Victor Zinchuk, this album contains arranged tunes of Bach, Vivaldi, Shubert and so on. Any tunes are very great! All tunes are instrumental. Released from PolyGram Russia on CD in 1998.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
NEOLIRIKA (NEO-LYRIC)
This album consists of 14 tunes and is filled with rich sounds. Victor Zinchuk has composed the first and the last tunes only. The others are traditional folk, such as "Greensleeves", and have elements of jazz and blus. This album doesn't have rock and classical atmosphere very much, but tunes have been arranged well. Especially, I like "Lolita", "Gomez' Romance" and "Sidewalk Cafe". And "Lolita" has been also contained as a video clip on DAT format. Released from KVADRO DISC (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2000.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Odinokiy V Nochi (Alone In The Night)
This seems a compilation album that has contained the past tunes of Victor Zinchuk. This album consists of 11 tunes and one tune is in 1991 and three tunes are in 1992. The second tune by Paganini has been arranged by fast guitars. And "Proshchanie" (Farewell) has been also contained as a video clip on MPEG2 format. Released from KVADRO DISC (Russia) on CD in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
AMADEUS No.146
This album consists of 12 tunes and many tunes are by Bach. These neoclassical sounds are very great! Almost of all tunes are silent, but I like this album very much. "Amadeus No.146" has been also contained as a video clip on MPEG2 format. Released from KVADRO DISC (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: *****

VIKONT

Outline

Sound Recordings

NA PODSTUPAKH K NEBU (APPROACHING THE SKY)
This debut EP is good. "KHRANITEL'" (CURATOR) is a song like ARIA. The last tune is a bonus track and Artur Berkut has sung, too. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (September/October 2009)
NE POKORYAYSYA SUD'BE! (DON'T SUBMIT FATE!)
This album is neither good nor bad. Released in 2011.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

VOLH

Outline

Sound Recording

Torzhestvenniy Marsh v Ragnaryok (Solemn March into the Ragnarok)
The first album of VOLH that it's a project by two members of VOLKOLAK. The style is similar to the VOLKOLAK's album "Tyomniy blesk cheshui" (Dark shine of scales). This album is more aggressive, but melodies are lack of variety. Released from Othal productions (Russia) on CD, limited to 1000 copies, in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

VOLKOLAK

Outline

Sound Recordings

Podvig Sedogo Korolya (Feet of the Grey King)
The style is pagan folk. This album is good. The first edition seems to have been released in 2002. And released from Othal productions (Russia) on CD in 2006.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Slava Yarile (Hail to Yarila)
"Yarila" seems to be the god of the sun in Slavic mythology. The style is pagan folk rock. Vargans (mouth harps) and a flute have been used. This album is good. The first edition was released from Othal productions (Russia) in 2004. And the reissued edition was released from Blazing Productions (Netherlands) on CD, limited to 1000 copies, in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
Tyomniy blesk cheshui (Dark shine of scales)
In this album they play speedy pagan black metal. But melodies are lack of variety. Released from Othal productions (Russia) in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: ***

VOLKOTEN'

Outline

Sound Recording

HammerHärte
This is a split CD of NITBERG and VOLKOTEN'. VOLKOTEN''s tunes are between the 6th and the 9th tunes. Their music is based on guitars. The first tune is speedy and cool. Released from Stellar Winter Records (Russia) and WOLFSBLOOD Productions in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ***
"DARK CITY": **** [Oleg POZDEEV] (September/October 2004)

VOLNAYA STAYA

Outline

Sound Recording

STAYA (FLOCK)
VOLNAYA STAYA is a girls' heavy metal band. Alexey Strike who is a guitarist of MASTER has produced this album. All songs are in Russian and good. And this contains a video clip of the title tune. Released from CD-MAXIMUM (Russia) on CD Plus format in 2007.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": **** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (July/August 2007)

VOZVRASCHENIE

Outline

Sound Recording

VVERKH PO TECHENIYU (UPSTREAM)
The first album. They play good folk rock. Male vocals are like Sergey Kalugin (ORGIA PRAVEDNIKOV). Self-released in 2002.
My degree of satisfaction: ****

VRATA T'MI

Outline

Sound Recording

VOYNI SEVERNOY ZEMLI (WARS OF NORTHERN LAND)
They play good pagan metal. The music is heavy and melodious. And keyboards have been used. Released from MORE HATE PRODUCTIONS (Russia) on CD in 2004.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
"DARK CITY": *** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (March/April 2005)

WATER WIND

Outline

Sound Recordings

SVISTOPLYASKA (RAGING)
In this album, many instruments have been used. The music is just Slavonic neo-folk. Male and female vocals have been used. Mainly female vocals. The sounds are very good! Released from SvaSound Records (Russia) on CD in 2005.
My degree of satisfaction: *****
"DARK CITY": ***** [Andrew KORUKHIN] (January/February 2006)
VODOVOROT VREMYON (WHIRLPOOL OF TIMES)
This album is also good folk rock. I like "Veter Vody" (Water Wind) and "Putnik" (Tourist). Released from New-Rock (Russia) on CD of DIGIPAK format in 2009.
My degree of satisfaction: ****
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