Red Army Ensemble (1965) Vinyl LP • Colonel Boris Alexandrov, Russian Folk Songs

Catalog Number:

STPL-515-090

Musical Styles:

1960s, Brass, Chorale, Marching, Military Music, National Anthem/Patriotic, Russian Music, Traditional Folk

Sleeve Grade:

Very Good (VG)

Record Grade:

Excellent (EX)

Condition Details:

Vinyl plays with occasional crackles (play-graded). Cover has a few creases near edges; scuffing (front/back); some discoloration on back. Inner-sleeve is poly-lined paper. Spine is mostly readable with wear and breaks and a small split near center. Minor shelf-wear along top-edge, heavier across bottom-edge and corners. Split from bottom right corner. Opening is crisp with signs of light use and divots. Name written on one side of label. (Not a cut-out.)

Tracks:

1. Volga Boat Song
2. Troika
3. Song About Shchors
4. Doubinouchka
5. They Are Valiant
6. Seven Sons-In-Law
7. Soviet National Anthem
8. Meadowland
9. Song Of The Prisoner
10. The Sun Sets Behind The Mountain
11. Under The Oak Tree
12. Nightingale Song
13. Sing Soldier

About The Record:

Red Army Ensemble by Red Army Ensemble, conducted by Colonel Boris Alexandrov, is a vibrant collection of Russian folk songs and patriotic pieces performed by the renowned Alexandrov Ensemble, known in the West as the Red Army Choir, showcasing their powerful choral arrangements, dynamic soloists, and instrumental accompaniment that blend traditional Russian melodies with military precision. The album features timeless classics such as Song of the Volga Boatmen, a haunting work song highlighted by deep bass-baritone delivery, the lively Kalinka as a perennial fan-favorite for its accelerating tempo and energetic spirit, the rhythmic Troika evoking horse-drawn sleigh rides, and Meadowland (also known as Polyushko-pole or Song of the Plains), an iconic and historically resonant Soviet-era tune often considered emblematic of the ensemble's repertoire for its sweeping, heroic quality that gained wide popularity worldwide. Interesting aspects include the ensemble's role in cultural diplomacy during the Cold War, with performances that highlighted Soviet musical heritage and entertained international audiences through folk traditions and soldier-themed songs. The album captures the group's signature style of robust male chorus, balalaika solos, and occasional dance elements, reflecting their origins in entertaining troops and promoting national pride. Kalinka stands out as one of the most beloved and frequently performed pieces by the ensemble, often eliciting enthusiastic responses from listeners.