CHetiure Tarakana Punk band Date of Birth: . Country: Russia

1. The Inception
2. Early Years
3. Rise to Prominence
4. Second Album and Name Change
5. Critical Success
6. Maturation and Subsequent Albums
7. Legacy

The Inception

In the quaint halls of Moscow's School No. 56, a group of young minds came together to ignite a musical revolution. Led by Dmitry Vorobyov on guitar, Yuri Lenin on lead guitar and vocals, Denis Rubanov on drums, and Dmitry Spirin on bass, they transformed a basement room into a sonic sanctuary. Fueled by the rebellious spirit of the Sex Pistols and the trailblazing success of their older counterparts, Naiv, they embarked on a musical odyssey as Chetvertaya Tarakana (The Fourth Cockroach).

Early Years

Their debut performance at their school's graduation party was a trial by fire. But undeterred, the band persevered, honing their skills through countless performances at underground clubs such as Sexton and Bunker. They became fixtures in Moscow's burgeoning punk rock scene, captivating audiences with their energetic live shows and infectious melodies.

In August 1992, with the financial support of a Spanish friend, they recorded their debut album, "Duty Free Songs." Featuring 11 original tracks in both Russian and English, the album showcased their raw talent and melodic punk rock style. However, it would not see release for another five years.

Rise to Prominence

In the mid-1990s, Chetvertaya Tarakana established a solid reputation in Moscow, becoming regulars at the iconic Otkryzhka rock club. They also garnered recognition through appearances on TV shows and international concert tours. Their performance at the prestigious "Big Bike Show" marked a turning point in their career, earning them critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Second Album and Name Change

In December 1995, the band welcomed new members and underwent a musical transformation. With Vladimir Rodionov on guitar, Sergei Zolotarev on bass, and Denis Rubanov returning on drums, they recorded their second album, "Best Before..." Released in 1995, the album featured a softer, more melodic sound that departed from their earlier punk roots.

In 1997, the band faced a pivotal moment when Rubanov and Rodionov decided to leave. The remaining members, including the new bass player Alexei Soloviev and guitarist Roman Shakhovsky, decided to continue under a new name: Tarakany! (The Cockroaches).

Critical Success

Tarakany! quickly ascended the ranks of Russian punk rock. Their 1997 album "Ukrav? Vypil? V Tyurmu!!!" (Stole? Drank? To Prison!!!) became a critical and commercial success, selling over 20,000 copies. The album's hard-driving melodies and anthemic lyrics resonated with a generation of disenfranchised youth.

Their music reached a wider audience through airplay on Moscow radio stations and inclusion in popular music compilations. The band toured extensively across Russia, becoming a symbol of the country's vibrant and rebellious punk rock scene.

Maturation and Subsequent Albums

In 1998, Tarakany! released their breakthrough album, "Posadki Net" (No Landings). Produced by Andrei Pasternak, the album captured their signature sound of raw energy, infectious melodies, and incisive lyrics.

The band continued to evolve and mature in the years that followed, releasing several more critically acclaimed albums, including 2000's "Popkorn/My Naučili Mir Sosat" (Popcorn/We Taught the World to Suck) and 2005's "Forced to Drink." Their music remained rooted in punk rock while expanding into new territories such as hard rock, metal, and folk.

Legacy

Tarakany! has become a legendary force in Russian punk rock, inspiring generations of musicians and fans. Their infectious energy, relatable lyrics, and unwavering dedication to their craft have cemented their place as one of the most influential bands in the country's music history.

With a loyal following and a legacy that continues to grow, Tarakany! remains a testament to the enduring power of punk rock and the enduring spirit of rebellion.