Paporotnik

Paporotnik

Rock band
Country: Russia

Content:
  1. Formation and Early Years
  2. Alexander Antonov:Violin, vocals
  3. International Tours and Evolving Sound
  4. A Rebirth and "Evil Fairy Tales 13"
  5. Collaboration with Andrey Makarevich
  6. Continued Experimentation and Success
  7. Transformation into "Orchestra Paporotnik"
  8. Recent Developments

Formation and Early Years

In 1991, under the patronage of the Fund of National Diplomacy, several musicians came together to explore the non-conventional acoustic sound. The founding members of "Paporotnik" ("Fern") were:

Alexander Antonov:Violin, vocals

Svyatoslav Vilchinsky:Vocals, percussion
Alexander Bakhaus:Accordion, vocals
Mikhail Nikolaev:Guitar, vocals
Taras Mazepa:Double bass, vocals

Inspired by folk music, their arrangements incorporated elements of country, blues, jazz, world music, and rock, creating a unique and eclectic sound. The name "Paporotnik" was chosen to reflect the beauty and complexity found in the fern plant.

International Tours and Evolving Sound

In 1991, "Paporotnik" embarked on a European tour as part of the Peace March commemorating the 50th anniversary of the anti-Hitler coalition. Performing at various venues, they gained positive recognition. Until 1995, the band continued to actively perform both domestically and internationally, undergoing some lineup changes.

A Rebirth and "Evil Fairy Tales 13"

In 1996, "Paporotnik" experienced a rebirth with returning members Antonov, Vilchinsky, and Bakhaus, alongside new drummer Dmitry Serebrynik ("Pyzya"). The band crafted their unique program, "Evil Fairy Tales 13," combining elements of folk tales, satire, and mysticism. Critics praised the show's humor and subversion of rock conventions.

Collaboration with Andrey Makarevich

In 1997, "Paporotnik" met Andrey Makarevich, who offered a collaboration. Impressed by their talent, Makarevich initiated a new project with them. The result was "Female Album," a successful release accompanied by a joint tour across Russia and the US. The partnership continued until 2000.

Continued Experimentation and Success

Alongside their collaboration with Makarevich, "Paporotnik" recorded "Evil Fairy Tales 13" and performed it extensively in Moscow clubs. In 2000, they released "Simply Love," another experimental album featuring guest musicians, a string quartet, and a children's choir. The band gained popularity and performed at exclusive events and clubs.

Transformation into "Orchestra Paporotnik"

In 2000, Serebrynik was replaced by Mikhail Mamochkin on drums. "Paporotnik" recorded the instrumental album "Graffiti" in 2003, showcasing their orchestral sound. With their lack of a traditional guitar, Antonov used an electric violin with a sound processor to replicate guitar riffs and traditional violin sounds. Recognizing their distinctive sound, the band began referring to themselves as "Orchestra Paporotnik."

Recent Developments

In 2004, Mamochkin departed and was replaced by Ivan Noevich Avaliani on drums. "Paporotnik" continues to develop new programs that reflect their artistic maturity and evolution, blending their instrumental and song-based material into a cohesive and unique sonic experience.

© BIOGRAPHS