Государство - Гражданская оборона
"Государство" (translated as "The State") is a track by the Russian punk rock band Гражданская оборона (Grazhdanskaya Oborona), also known as ГрОб (GroB). The song was written by the band's frontman, Yegor Letov, and released in 1990 as part of their album "Русское поле экспериментов" (translated as "Russian Field of Experiments"). The theme of the song revolves around criticism of the Soviet government and its oppressive regime. The lyrics denounce the corruption, censorship, and control exerted by the state over its citizens. Letov's raw and impassioned vocals convey a sense of anger and rebellion against the authorities. Musically, "Государство" is characterized by its fast-paced punk rock sound, with energetic guitar riffs and pounding drums driving the song forward. The aggressive instrumentation complements the rebellious lyrics, creating a sense of urgency and defiance. Notable for its provocative and controversial lyrics, "Государство" became an anthem for dissidents and anti-establishment movements in Russia. The song's powerful message and intense delivery have made it a staple in the band's discography and a symbol of resistance against oppressive regimes.
Гражданская оборона
Гражданская оборона, also known as Civil Defense, was a Russian punk rock band formed in Omsk in 1984 by the iconic frontman Yegor Letov. The band quickly gained a reputation for their raw and politically charged lyrics, as well as their DIY approach to music production. Letov, a self-taught musician and poet, was heavily influenced by Western punk rock bands such as The Sex Pistols and The Clash. He used music as a platform to express his dissatisfaction with the Soviet regime and the oppressive political climate in Russia at the time. Despite facing constant harassment from the authorities, Гражданская оборона continued to produce music and gain a loyal following among dissidents and underground music fans. Their songs often touched on themes of social injustice, government corruption, and the struggle for freedom and individuality. One of the band's most famous albums, "Настройщик" (The Tuner), released in 1988, was a seminal work that solidified their place in Russian music history. The album featured tracks like "Всё идет по плану" (Everything is going according to plan) and "Колхозный панк" (Collective farm punk) that became anthems for the disaffected youth of the era. Гражданская оборона's impact on Russian music cannot be overstated. They were pioneers of the punk rock scene in Russia and paved the way for countless other artists to use music as a form of protest and social commentary. Their uncompromising attitude and fearless creativity inspired a new generation of musicians to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Despite Letov's untimely death in 2008, the legacy of Гражданская оборона lives on through their music, which continues to resonate with listeners who seek truth and authenticity in a world filled with hypocrisy and oppression. They remain an enduring symbol of resistance and defiance in the face of adversity.