Two decades have passed since the musical landscape was first graced by Uma2rman, the Russian band known for its distinctive blend of lyrical depth and captivating melodies. To mark this significant milestone, the collective has unveiled “Stars Count Us,” a tribute album that features an impressive roster of prominent artists reinterpreting Uma2rman`s most beloved hits. With nineteen tracks and a multitude of participants, this compilation offers a fresh perspective on a cherished discography.
The Breakthrough and Its Audacious Reimagining
Uma2rman found their golden ticket in 2004, propelled into the limelight by their eponymous track on the soundtrack of the blockbuster film “Night Watch.” The song, a spirited narrative of the movie`s plot delivered in Vladimir Kristovsky`s distinctive voice, offered a refreshing and unconventional sound that resonated widely. “Surrender, witch!” declared the frontman, and indeed, audiences, radio stations, and television channels alike seemed to yield to its charm.
On the new tribute album, this very song has been boldly reinterpreted by the acclaimed rapper Basta. Vasily Vakulenko, in a surprising turn, penned entirely new lyrics for the track. His rendition bears little resemblance to the original`s upbeat narrative, transforming it into something measured and melancholic, almost unrecognizable save for the iconic “the world cracked in half” chorus and the title. Considering the nascent state of popular Russian rap (beyond early acts like Malchishnik and Dolphin) in the early 2000s, Uma2rman`s “Night Watch” could arguably be considered a pioneering spoken-word hit. It is perhaps no coincidence that Basta, a titan of Russian rap, chose this particular track, morphing Vladimir Kristovsky`s sprightly, playful recitation into a dense, mournful piece.
“Praskovya”: A Double Dose of Reinterpretation
One of Uma2rman`s foundational hits, “Praskovya,” makes two distinct appearances on the collection. The first comes from the notorious group Leningrad, with the vocal duties handled personally by Sergey Shnurov, opting for his own voice over his usually robust female vocalists. Shnurov`s version features amusingly nostalgic lyrics, recounting his initial encounter with the band`s work, musing, “The band`s name is Uma Thurman, though the soloist looks like Brad Pitt.” He wisely preserved the original chorus, a tactic he successfully employed in his explosive cover of Valery Kipelov`s “Ya Svoboden” (I Am Free).
Leningrad`s take on “Praskovya” resonates with an authentic, unvarnished charm. Vladimir Kristovsky`s simple yet endearing lyricism proves a surprisingly fitting canvas for Shnurov`s even more straightforward poetic inclinations. The minimalist sound, reminiscent of the sparse rap beats of the nineties, leaves ample room for contemplation on the song`s existential and philosophical undertones, where “Praskovyas sing not only in the Moscow suburbs but everywhere where doves fly over zones.”
The second rendition of “Praskovya” is courtesy of disco maestros Filatov & Karas and the group Vintage. This interpretation clearly draws inspiration from 90s pop, evoking the era`s signature “Dzingtars lipstick” and heavily permed hairstyles – accoutrements without which, one might surmise, no respectable lady would dare grace a discotheque. In this version, both verses and choruses remain intact, with only the overarching stylistic framework undergoing a significant transformation.
From Heartbreak to Household Names: The Ballads
The deeply sorrowful “Prostitsya” (To Say Goodbye), a track steeped in tears and lament, finds new emotional depths with Dima Bilan and Mari Kraimbreri. Vladimir Kristovsky once revealed in an interview that this song`s genesis was not initially one of romantic heartbreak. In a past century (or perhaps just a past life), the artist`s career had stagnated, and financial struggles were so profound that he and his wife dreamed only of simple store-bought treats, not grand ambitions. These setbacks nearly crushed the future star, and the song emerged as a farewell to his dream and belief in success. It later evolved into the poignant love ballad that brought the group widespread airplay, chart positions, awards, and, presumably, all the store-bought treats their hearts desired.
The family duet of Vladimir Presnyakov and Natalia Podolskaya took on the responsibility of reinterpreting the classic Uma2rman track “Ya Tak Zhdala Tebya, Vova” (I Waited So Long for You, Vova). Their cover channels the spirit of Presnyakov Jr.`s own hit, “Stewardess Zhanna,” with Podolskaya`s soulful repetition of “I waited so long for you, Vova!” met by Presnyakov`s contented rejoinder that he is “the happiest Vova.”
Global Echoes and Modern Touches
Another notable chapter in Uma2rman`s musical biography, “Ne Pozvonish” (You Won`t Call), a collaboration with French pop diva Patricia Kaas, first emerged in 2008. This was a significant endeavor for the Kristovsky brothers, elevating their artistic standing in the public eye. For the tribute album, the trendy musical artist Nemiga re-recorded it. Nemiga approached the song with respectful care, preserving the original text, melody, and even the French segment. While the absence of Patricia Kaas herself is notable, the result is a remarkably current sound, perfectly suited for a leisurely stroll through a nocturnal cityscape.
Zhenya Lyubich was entrusted with the sweeping breakup ballad “Skazhi” (Tell Me). With minimal alterations, she masterfully made the song her own. It seamlessly weaves into her repertoire, much like a cosmetic bag slides into a ladies` purse filled with songs that are at times lyrical, at times cynical, and at times mockingly humorous, yet always, unequivocally, about love—often delivered with a sharp edge.
A Cohesive Collection of Creative Renditions
Overall, Uma2rman`s tribute album is a charming and insightful collection, highlighting how each contributing artist managed to project their unique individuality through the lens of another`s creative output. It serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and versatility of Uma2rman`s music. Anticipation already builds for a promised second installment of these “old songs about the main things,” further exploring the rich tapestry of Uma2rman`s legacy.
