Recommended Russian rock bands. Special feature on popular overseas bands.
When people start listening to Western rock music, they usually begin with American or British bands. But as they get curious about the bands’ backgrounds and dig deeper, many eventually discover the world of rock beyond the English-speaking countries.
In this article, we introduce a variety of bands—centered on Russian rock groups but also including metal, punk, progressive, and more!
Please take this opportunity to enjoy the unique sounds and melodies you won’t find in any other country.
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Recommended Russian rock bands. Special feature on popular overseas bands (1–10)
Liki Bessmertnykh BogovARKONA
Arkona is a Russian band leading the pagan metal scene, known for a style that incorporates traditional instruments from their homeland.
They deliver a distinctive sound using the balalaika and whistles.
“Liki Bessmertnykh Bogov,” featured on their 2009 album Goi, Rode, Goi!, is a track notable for its passionate band performance.
Be sure to check out the female vocals’ death growls, which add dramatic flair.
Experience Russian metal that evokes a deep sense of storytelling.
ZIONFail Emotions
Fail Emotions are a Russia-born band delivering a unique sound that crosses over electronica and metal.
They made their Japan debut at GEKIROCK TOUR VOL.
8 in 2013.
Their 2019 release ZION is a track driven by a danceable beat.
Colorful synth tones ring out alongside dynamic performances reminiscent of folk metal.
You’ll experience an exotic sound that incorporates a wide range of instruments, from violin to acoustic guitar.
If you’re into hybrid/mixture rock, give it a listen.
Город Золотойaquarium
Aquarium is a Russian rock band that has been active since the 1970s.
Known for its wide-ranging musicality, including reggae and blues, it’s a great recommendation for anyone new to Russian rock.
Their song “Город Золотой” is a track filled with a nostalgic atmosphere.
You’ll be soothed by the warm vocals of Boris Grebenshchikov, the band’s lead singer.
The song encapsulates the band’s charm, particularly their talent for crafting music that feels like a work of art.
Experience sounds that evoke the vast landscapes of Russia.
Recommended Russian rock bands. Special feature on popular overseas bands (11–20)
Stop My HeartDark Princess
Dark Princess is a gothic metal band formed in 2004 by members from Moscow and Mangazeya.
They drew attention not only for their music but also for their distinctive fashion.
While their sound is heavy and dark, its catchy edge is part of the appeal.
The clear, translucent vocals—perfect for an ambient atmosphere—also enhance the world-building of their songs.
If you’re into visual-kei or hard rock, be sure to give them a listen!
MYSTERYSHREZZERS
If the mere mention of technical twin-guitar interplay and the contrast between emotive melodies and screams makes you want to hit play, then you should definitely check out Shrezzers, a five-piece band from Russia.
They’re essentially a kind of supergroup made up of seasoned musicians, and after their 2019 Japan tour, they became a hot topic among music fans here who love screamo and post-hardcore.
As of now, their only album is their 2019 debut, RELATIONSHIPS, but really, just listen to the sound.
Amid the fluid, technical guitars in the post-djent vein, the saxophone stands out with equal presence.
That’s right—their biggest hallmark is having a sax player as a full-time member, crafting a stylish sound colored by passionate sax tones that you didn’t know you needed.
First-time listeners will likely be surprised at how perfectly the sax timbre meshes with this style.
They’re currently active with a new vocalist after their previous singer departed, so keep an eye on them!
LeshakGrai
If you’re looking for grand, ethnic-flavored Russian metal, I recommend the band Grai.
Active from the 2000s through the 2010s, they’re characterized by a sound that evokes folk and pagan metal.
Their lineup includes keyboards and flute, making them a band with strong melodic elements within the metal genre.
If you enjoy background music from fighting games or battle scenes, their sound will be irresistible.
With death growls and female vocals that blend beautifully, they’re a great entry point for newcomers to metal.
Потерянный РайARIA
Aria is an indispensable name when talking about Russian heavy metal.
Active since the 1980s, they’re known for having a major influence on the later Russian metal scene.
Their 2000 release Poteryanny Ray (Lost Paradise) is a track driven by melodic band performance.
Alongside a classical touch, a dense, heavy metal sound unfolds.
The song is passionate yet tinged with melancholy, making it a great recommendation for metal beginners.
Why not give expansive, deep Russian music a listen?