Blog post - 24. Mar 2025

This evening was an emotional rollercoaster ride that only Russian Speed Folk can deliver. From the very first sounds of the accordion and the huge bass balalaika, it was impossible to escape the band’s intoxicating energy. The area in front of the stage was quickly transformed into a dance floor of jumping and spinning people – the atmosphere was electrifying!

The mixture of nostalgia and joie de vivre in the music of the Potsdam band was particularly touching. The melancholy that resonated in the minor keys seemed to build a bridge – not only between musical genres, but also within the audience. You couldn’t understand every word of their Russian lyrics, but the emotions spoke a universal language.

A highlight was the song “Сердце”. You could literally feel how the story of the rock musician and the beautiful woman filled the dance floor with a certain magic. And when the crowd sang along passionately to “Bella Ciao”, it was clear that this was not just a band at work, but a movement that has been connecting people for 35 years.

What is admirable about 44 Leningrad is their steadfastness: no commercial pressure, just pure passion for their art. This evening was a celebration of friendship, joie de vivre and musical freedom. The audience went home with a smile – and with sore dancing legs.

Organiser: Alter Gasometer e.V.