25/17

25/17: A Rebellious Voice in Russian Rock

Emerging from the industrial heartland of Omsk, Siberia, 25/17 became a formidable force in Russian rock music. Their distinctive sound, a fusion of hip-hop, alternative rock, and folk, captured the raw emotions and gritty realities of post-Soviet life.

Members:

* Andrei "Puch" Blinov (vocals, guitar)
* Vadim "Vadim" Chernov (drums)
* Denis "Krest" Shapovalov (bass)
* Andrey "Mikha" Pokrovsky (guitar, backing vocals)

Challenges and Controversies:

25/17's lyrics, often laced with profanity and unflinching social commentary, drew both admiration and criticism. Their refusal to shy away from sensitive topics, such as drug abuse, poverty, and political corruption, earned them a reputation as rebels. However, their outspokenness also resulted in accusations of vulgarity and censorship attempts.

Discography:

* In God We Trust (2002)
* 25/17 (2004)
* We're Alive (2006)
* The Mother of All Festivals (2008)
* Blood and Soil (2010)
* Red Light Stop (2012)
* Little Muscles (2014)
* The Way of the Samurai (2016)
* Gray (2018)
* Spy (2021)

Song of the Hour: "Sniper"

Released in 2014, "Sniper" became an instant anthem for 25/17. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics explore the complexities and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers in war. The song sparked a nationwide debate about the human cost of conflict, resonating deeply with audiences across Russia.

Legacy:

Throughout their career, 25/17 remained fiercely independent, refusing to compromise their artistic vision despite pressure from the music industry and mainstream media. Their music continues to inspire a generation of listeners, providing a voice for the marginalized and challenging societal norms.