Something rather unexpected happened last week. Zvuki.ru published a comprehensive review of my recent singles that actually took time to understand what I’m trying to achieve musically. Reading it felt like encountering proper music journalism, which has become increasingly rare.
Zvuki.ru remains one of the few Russian platforms that approaches music criticism seriously. They don’t chase quick clicks or surface-level impressions. Instead, their writers dig into sonic architecture, production choices, and artistic evolution. The kind of analysis that helps both artists and listeners understand music beyond simple like/dislike reactions.
Mihail Basmanov positioned my work within a broader context of Russian musicians navigating international integration, which feels particularly relevant right now. Being compared to St. Vincent, Shirley Manson, and Karen O whilst acknowledging my current limitations was both flattering and constructively honest. Good criticism should challenge artists to push further.
The observation about my vocal approach hiding behind rhythm changes during critical moments stung because it’s accurate. Sometimes external perspective reveals patterns you’ve developed unconsciously. The suggestion to borrow boldness from punk or noise to brighten the overall picture feels like actionable direction rather than vague encouragement.
Having serious attention paid to Vitaly Perepelitsa’s production work on ‘Chasing Signs’ was particularly satisfying. Collaboration deserves recognition, especially when someone helps achieve that balance between constructed precision and emotional spontaneity.
Proper music criticism creates dialogue between artist and audience. Zvuki.ru understands this responsibility and executes it well.
— Indie pop artist, musician Anastasia Ledovskaya