Originally hailing from Omsk (that's wayyyy deep into Russia), GRAZHDANSKAYA OBORONA, or "Civil Defense" in English, was the most prolific and influential punk band in Russia. Yegor Letov formed the band in 1984 after spending time in a mental ward for performing anti-authoritarian, anti-militaristic, aggressive music. GRAZHDANSKAYA OBORONA recorded many albums over the years, and many copied tapes exist with varying versions of songs, different sessions, etc. The earliest ones, including "Necrophilia" (recorded in 1987), were recorded by Yegor in his apartment - a space that became known as the GrOb studio. Any material against the government instantly drew attention from the KGB, so these recordings were truly dangerous, and were taped and distributed mainly in the underground circuit through friends.
In the early 90's Letov disappointed fans by declaring that he now had joined the right wing fascist movement, but still continued to make music . He passed away in 2008 from heart failure.
The music is raw, dark, and passionate lo-fi punk, with a heavy dose of Russian folk influence. It's really unique, and if you haven't heard it, I really suggest you start today. I have several more great GrOb tapes and related projects to post in the future! I've translated the song titles into English through a translator site.
whoa i had no idea about the guylater becoming a fascist, damn. the tape is amazing though!! -n
ReplyDeleteIn National Bolshevik Party fascism was a need for epatage. In fact it was a radical communist party, opposed the ideology of consumerism and capitalism.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing
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