Russian artists have thus far had a tough time in breaking through into the increasingly overcrowded post-rock scene. Aside from Bosch's With You and Silence Kit, there have been few noteworthy exceptions. Enter Belye Flagi Zazhigayte Medlenno. Few artists come along that have the unrestrained power of some of the more formidable forces in post-metal combined with the emotional drive and technical complexity present in some of the more avant-garde post-rock, wrapped up in one concise and thoroughly breathtaking bundle. Recalling the technical, ever changing cadences employed by The Samuel Jackson Five with a heavier, more aggressive (yet never overbearing) edge, Belye Flagi Zazhigayte Medlenno is clearly taking influence from several other places, including Silent Ballet favorites Caspian and post-metal titans Isis. This particular Russian band is heading into a ravenous music press, hungry for something new.

Their debut release (available from their myspace) displays a constant sense that something special is happening. With each of the five main tracks being 'set-up' by a short introduction piece (Remmings anyone?) there is a lot of time for speculation and reflection, a much needed break from the constant barrage of ethereal beauty and roomy oppression. If this debut release shows half the skill we could expect from a future release, it's time to get practicing your pronunciation, as you will definitely be telling everyone you know about this lot.

-Barry Smethurst