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DobranochGroup
Country:
 France |
Content:
- The Genesis of Dobrenoch
- A Musical Evolution
- Defining a New Sound
- Touring and Recognition
- A New Chapter Begins
- Embracing Moldavian Folklore
- Return to the Homeland
The Genesis of Dobrenoch
In 1997, three musicians from Saint Petersburg embarked on a journey to France in search of Celtic music. These musicians were Mitya Khramtsov, Oleg Drobinksy, and Stas Zubtsov. They settled in the city of Nantes and formed the group Dobronoch, initially performing Irish folk melodies with frequent instrument swaps.
A Musical Evolution
Over time, Dobronoch's repertoire transformed. Mitya embraced the violin, Oleg added the clarinet, and Stas returned to Saint Petersburg. In 1998, Eric Long and Marc Blumer joined the group, bringing a touch of Irish folk to their sound. Despite these changes, the group continued to perform in bars, on the streets, and even hitchhiked through Brittany and Spain.
Defining a New Sound
In 1999, Dobronoch's sound evolved once again. With the addition of Konstantin Filatov on double bass and Babajan on mandolin and percussion, the group embraced Eastern European music, particularly Russian, Ukrainian, Jewish, and Moldavian melodies. This shift was met with success in Nantes and its surroundings, and the group released their debut album, "Dobronoch - Russian and Jewish Music."
Touring and Recognition
Throughout 2000, Dobronoch toured extensively, performing at festivals and concerts. They shared the stage with renowned ethno-music stars such as IDIR, Alan Stivell, and Fanfare Ciocarlia at the prestigious "Les Escales" festival in Saint-Nazaire. Bassist Konstantin Filatov left the group, while Babajan returned to Saint Petersburg.
A New Chapter Begins
After a brief hiatus, Dobronoch reemerged in 2000 with a renewed lineup. Dmitry Shikhardin joined the group on violin and vocals, alongside vocalist Natasha Smirnovskaya and percussionist Petr Sergeev. This era marked a return to Russian folk songs and Balkan melodies.
Embracing Moldavian Folklore
In 2001, Dobronoch embarked on an epic journey to Chișinău, Moldova. For a month, they immersed themselves in the local musical culture, studying under renowned masters such as Griba (violin) and Platon (cymbals). This experience had a profound impact on the group's sound, and they proudly proclaimed their drummer as a disciple of Platon.
Return to the Homeland
In mid-March of 2001, Dobronoch returned to their "historical homeland" in Saint Petersburg. The city became their new base, though the group continued to tour extensively, bringing their unique blend of Eastern European folk music to audiences around the world.
