Ras-Klad Rock band Country: Russia

1. Formation and Early Days of "KAYA CLUB"
2. "UP-STREAM": Embracing Change and Expansion
3. "RAS-KLAD": A New Chapter with Diverse Influences
4. Rise to Prominence and Studio Breakthrough
5. International Recognition and "RastaMania"
6. Album Recording and Member Departures

Formation and Early Days of "KAYA CLUB"

In 1992, Igor Ivanov, known as "GUM," embarked on the ambitious project of forming a reggae band called "KAYA CLUB." The band's name, a nod to its members' fondness for marijuana, reflected their countercultural leanings. The original lineup consisted of Ivanov on vocals and rhythm guitar, Pavel Dudnikov on lead guitar, and Alexander "BYSYA" Mamchenko on bass. Influenced by the music of "Komitet Okhrany Tepla," the band's early sound was rooted in the reggae genre. However, "KAYA CLUB" remained largely inactive, performing no public concerts during this period.

"UP-STREAM": Embracing Change and Expansion

In September 1996, "KAYA CLUB" underwent a significant transformation. With a change in rehearsal space, came a new era for the band. Ivanov continued as the creative mastermind, while the lineup expanded to include Evgeny Akhtyrtsev on bass, Yuri Kuchin on keyboards, Alexey Bubnov on drums, and Sergei Menshikov on lead guitar. The band adopted the name "UP-STREAM," symbolizing their determination to swim against the current. This newfound lineup allowed the band to make their public debut with several performances.

"RAS-KLAD": A New Chapter with Diverse Influences

September 1997 marked another pivotal moment in the band's history. Vladimir Prusakov joined as the new drummer, while Menshikov and Bubnov departed. The band welcomed Evgeny Babaychev and Olga Sarnavskaya, bolstering their sound with a second keyboardist and backing vocals. With these additions, the band rebranded itself as "RAS-KLAD." The name, meaning "layout" or "presentation" in Russian, reflected their evolving musical style, which now incorporated elements of funk, soul, and jazz.

Rise to Prominence and Studio Breakthrough

In February 1998, "RAS-KLAD" gained recognition with several performances at the popular youth club "X-KLAN." Shortly after, they headed into "BALTISTAN-Records" studio to record their debut album, featuring 12 original tracks. March 1998 brought another talented addition to the band: Andrey Motorny on lead guitar. The band's performance at the "STOP MOX" protest rally showcased their commitment to social issues. In June 1998, Vitaly Marfich joined as the rhythm guitarist, solidifying the lineup that would make a splash at the "Kaliningrad in Rock-98" international festival.

International Recognition and "RastaMania"

"RAS-KLAD" earned critical acclaim after their performance at "Kaliningrad in Rock-98," where they were hailed as the discovery of the festival. In August 1998, they hosted the "RASTAMANIA" party at the "U BYKOV" club, where they presented their newly expanded repertoire. Oleg Andryushchenko joined as the saxophonist in the autumn of that year, further enriching the band's sound. "RAS-KLAD" continued to gain momentum, performing at the "SHTURM-SHOW 99" festival in January 1999 and returning to "Kaliningrad in Rock-99" in July.

Album Recording and Member Departures

A period of consolidation ensued in the autumn of 1999, with the departure of bassist Evgeny Akhtyrtsev and keyboardist Yuri Kuchin. Sarnavskaya took over bass duties, while the band diligently recorded their sophomore album at "BALTISTAN-Records" from January to June 2000. In August, they made their third appearance at the annual "Kaliningrad in Rock" festival, showcasing the fruits of their labor.