Chimera (Russian band)
| Company type | Underground rock ensemble |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1990 in St. Petersburg, Russia |
| Founder | Gennady Bachinsky |
| Defunct | February 1997 |
| Headquarters | St. Petersburg , Russia |
| Products | Music albums, live performances |
Chimera—also referred to as Deputat Baltiki—was an underground rock ensemble originating from Russia, established in 1990 in St. Petersburg by vocalist/guitarist and lead guitarist Gennady Bachinsky. The band served as the prominent act at the Tamtam venue, which also featured performances from groups like Korol i Shut and Tequilajazzz. Chimera embarked on numerous tours throughout Germany.
In February 1997, Starkov, aged 27, took his own life within the band's rehearsal area. This tragic event led to the dissolution of the group.
Legacy
Artists such as Psychea, Pilot, Iva Nova, Zakhar May, and PTVP have performed covers of Chimera's songs. A member of PTVP commended Chimera for their pivotal role in shaping Russian rock during the 1990s, likening their influence to that of Nirvana in the United States.
The band's musical approach drew inspiration from acts including Bauhaus, Nico, Butthole Surfers, Sonic Youth, and Fugazi. Additionally, their work was influenced by literary figures such as Daniil Kharms, Jules Verne, Helena Blavatsky, and Philip K. Dick.
Discography
- 1991 Redt Starkov & Co ()
- 1991 Half-Petrograd Acoustics (Полупетроградская акустика)
- 1991 Nautiluses (Кораблики)
- 1991 Stoker Dreams (Сны кочегара)
- 1991 Commissioner of Smoke Gendarmerie (Комиссар дымовой жандармерии)
- 1992 Visionaries (Фантазёры)
- 1993 Chimera (Химера)
- 1994 Electric Train (Электричка)
- 1994 Kalevala (Калевала)
- 1995 Nuihuli
- 1997 It's Me (Это я)
- 1997 ZUDWA
Members
- ("Redt") – vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, accordion, wind instruments
- Gennady Bachinsky – guitar, production
- Urij Lebedev – bass guitar
- Vladislav Viktorov ("Vitus") – drums
- Paul Labutin – cello