10 Best Russian Post-Punk Albums

Contents:

• What is postpunk
• "Bad Influence" — "Stillness"
• "Hugo-Hugo" — "I'm So Scared"
• "Sailor's Silence" — V.I.P.
• "Sounds of Mu" — "Rough Sunset"
• "Straw Raccoons" — "Fortress Island"
• "Hummingbird" — "Sugar Demon"
• "Fox Bread" — “Nothing new”
• Motorama - Alps
• "Gully" - "Proletariat"
• Chernikovskaya Hata - Chernikovskaya Hata

What is postpunk

Millions of people are into the depressive tracks of post-punk bands Joy Division and The Cure, without realizing the deep nature of this music. This is no coincidence, because post-punk representatives do not strive to follow the strict canons of the genre. Post-punk is free from rigid boundaries and conventions, making it unique and memorable. The music of these bands reaches deep into the soul, touching on themes of loneliness, loss, and internal struggle. This is precisely what attracts listeners, allowing them to find reflections of their own experiences and emotions in the songs. Post-punk, like its predecessor, classic punk, retains its aesthetic affinity but introduces new nuances. It is still "protest music," but unlike punk, post-punk reflects more hopeless and gloomy moods. Both genres originated in Britain, but by the 1980s, the British had become disillusioned with politics, and the agitational spirit characteristic of The Sex Pistols faded into the background. At this time, a new generation of artists emerged on the music scene, rejecting the traditional rules of rock music and drawing inspiration from the sonic avant-garde. Post-punk reflected a cultural and social crisis, exploring more complex and experimental sonic solutions, making it a significant milestone in music history.

In terms of musical theory, post-punk is characterized by a "cold" sound. It is based on jagged guitar lines, emotionless vocals, hollow-sounding synthesizers, and dub-style mixing. Lumping bands like The Pop Group and Wire under a single sonic concept is inappropriate. Post-punk serves as an umbrella term encompassing a diverse range of artists who radically reject classic rock formats. Ultimately, it can be said that each artist has their own unique approach to post-punk.

Post-punk became known to Russian listeners back in the Soviet era. Although Joy Division's records were not widely available, they found their admirers. Bands such as Kino, Coffee, Televizor, and Agata Kristi clearly drew inspiration from the work of Western artists. Their music, which absorbed elements of post-punk, continues to remain relevant and beloved to this day.

Our list will not include famous bands such as Viktor Tsoi. Instead, we will focus on forgotten and underrated bands who performed post-punk in Russian both in the 1980s and today. These bands made a significant contribution to musical culture, but for various reasons remained in the shadows. We invite you to remember them and appreciate their work, which remains relevant and interesting to listeners.

"Bad Influence" - "Immobility"

The year 1989 saw significant events that influenced world history. This year was key in the context of political and social change, especially in Eastern Europe. The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era. As a result of these events, countries began to transition to democratic forms of government, which changed the geopolitical map of the world. 1989 was also marked by a wave of protests and reforms that affected many nations striving for freedom and human rights. These historical changes continue to influence contemporary society and international relations.

The St. Petersburg band "Durnoe Vliyanie" (Bad Influence) is a landmark representative of Russian post-punk. Led by vocalist Alexander Skvortsov, the band sought to introduce elements of gothic rock into the Russian music scene. Their debut album, fully in keeping with this trend, combines depressive lyrics about hatred of life and one's hometown with noisy production and guitar parts reminiscent of Bauhaus. At the time of its formation in 1989, "Nepodizhnost" (Immobility) was perceived as a true musical breakthrough. However, due to production issues, the album was never released at the time. Consequently, the release only became available to the general public in 2003, by which time interest in post-punk had already begun to wane. Despite this, the music of "Bad Influence" continues to resonate with connoisseurs of the genre, emphasizing the importance of their contribution to the development of Russian rock music.

Despite some shortcomings in sound quality and its derivative nature compared to the British scene, the "lost" recording of the pioneers of Soviet post-punk is capable of surprising the listener. The track "Life as a Disease" draws attention with its persistent bass line, while the album's opening track, "24 Hours," shocks with its aggressive instrumentation and Skvortsov's emotional vocals. Despite its diverse sound, "Durnoye Vliyaniya" (Bad Influence) didn't have a significant impact on listeners, but was highly regarded by many St. Petersburg post-punk bands. Eduard Nesterenko, the renowned leader of "Kofe" and "Petli Nesterova," played one of the band's guitar parts. This album remains a significant cultural phenomenon in the history of Soviet post-punk.

The best lines from the song: "When you get tired of living, / You'll take a step back. / I'll repeat this step with you" from the track "If I'm Lying" reflect deep emotional experiences. These words touch on themes of weariness with life and support in difficult times. They demonstrate the importance of mutual support and unity in difficult times. The song becomes a real anthem for those who seek comfort and understanding in relationships.

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Noise around various issues and topics has become commonplace in modern society. Every day we are exposed to information that causes controversy, discussion, and even conflict. This noise can come from different sources, including news, social media, and personal conversations. It is important to be able to filter information and distinguish the main points from the general background. The ability to concentrate on truly significant topics will help avoid information overload and focus on what is truly important. By analyzing sources and context, you can more consciously approach the perception of information and make informed decisions.

"Hugo Hugo" - "I'm so scared"

The year 1992 became an important milestone in history, marked by significant events and changes. This year saw significant political and social shifts that impacted many countries. On the international arena, 1992 was marked by the signing of a number of key agreements and treaties that contributed to strengthening cooperation between states and promoting peace. This year also saw the beginning of major economic reforms aimed at the transition to a market economy in a number of post-Soviet countries. The cultural life of 1992 was vibrant: the emergence of new musical genres and artistic movements reflected a desire for change and experimentation. This year became a symbol of hope and change for many people striving for a better future.

The Tolyatti band Hugo-Ugo has released eight albums in two years, earning attention for its unique style. Their EP, "I'm So Scared," represents the culmination of their creative output. The recording features just six tracks, each of which could be a true gem for any post-punk band. The music is imbued with melancholy, dark guitar lines create an atmosphere, and the all-consuming instrumental noise makes Hugo-Ugo easily recognizable among other artists in the genre.

Kotomtsev and his band are often compared to Joy Division, which is not surprising, given their shared commitment to a depressive aesthetic and deliberate sloppiness in their sound. However, that's where the similarities end. The album "Hugo-Hugo" could only have been born in Tolyatti in the early 1990s. The band's music is imbued with the spirit of Khrushchev-era apartment buildings and winter slush, making it unique. The tracks "When the Rains Rise Like a Wall" and "This is Your End" are so distinctive that even Kotomtsev's devoted fans couldn't recreate the atmosphere of this EP. The song "I'm So Scared" has become an unofficial anthem for a "sad" Russia, reflecting the emotional state of many listeners. Kotomtsev's work continues to be relevant, conveying feelings and experiences close to many.

In the work "When the Rains Rise Like a Wall," the following bright and memorable lines stand out: "And the clouds-lightning sharpen their nails, / Blood-scarlet flowers / They lay on my chest." These phrases immerse the reader in an atmosphere of drama and sensuality, creating an image that makes one think about the inner state of the lyrical hero. The poem is saturated with symbolism, where clouds and lightning personify emotional storms and inner experiences, and blood-scarlet flowers serve as a metaphor for passion and pain. Such a deep meaning makes the text relevant and attractive for analysis in the context of literature and poetry.

"Sailor's Silence" - V. I. P.

In 1993, many historically significant events occurred that influenced the development of various spheres of life. This year marked a significant milestone for many countries transitioning to new political and economic systems. In the world of technology, 1993 marked the introduction of the first web browsers, ushering in the internet era. This significantly changed the way people interact and access information. Culturally, there were also notable achievements, including the release of iconic films and music albums that left their mark on history. 1993 became a milestone that opened new horizons for future generations.

Herman Dizhechko and the Moscow-based band Matrosskaya Tishina are ardent fans of the iconic band The Smiths. This becomes evident from the very first chords of their track "Whispers of My Jealousy," where Dizhechko skillfully imitates Morrissey's vocals. The rest of the band adheres to a "simple" post-punk style that does not overshadow the vocals. While the song is truly impressive, excessive admiration for The Smiths may distract the listener from listening to the album in its entirety. However, don't jump to conclusions - each track is worth paying attention to, as they all have their own unique value and atmosphere.

Dizhechko continues to perform songs in English with a charming Russian accent. However, the band's music is revealed from a new side on other tracks. The song "Sailor's Silence" combines elements of disco, new wave in the spirit of Talking Heads and gothic romance. This album is surprisingly diverse and sounds like a collection of hits from a great British post-punk band from an alternate reality. Furthermore, V.I.P. is distinguished by the high quality of its recording and production, which makes it sad that Matrosskaya Tishina is practically forgotten these days. The album is worth the attention of lovers of quality music and post-punk.

One of the most memorable lines: "Jealousy / Stays until eternity, / I hate my jealousy" from the song "Whispers of My Jealousy." These words vividly reflect the inner experiences and struggle with jealousy that can haunt a person throughout life. The song deeply explores the emotions that can destroy relationships and emphasizes the importance of being aware of your feelings.

"Zvuki Mu" - "Rough Sunset"

The year 1995 saw many significant events that impacted various areas of life. This year marked a crucial stage in the development of technology, culture, and society. In the technological sphere, the internet began to be actively integrated into everyday life, opening up new horizons for communication and business. In the cultural arena, 1995 was marked by the release of landmark films and music albums that influenced the subsequent development of the entertainment industry. Significant political events also took place that year, reflecting changes in the world order. All these aspects make 1995 a significant milestone in history, influencing the future.

Following the experimental album "Simple Things" (1988), the band "Zvuki Mu" stunned fans with their dynamic post-punk album "Rough Sunset." Vocalist Pyotr Mamonov updated the band's sound, paying attention to Western musical trends. The album's title track features layered guitar lines characteristic of the British scene and Mamonov's surreal lyrics. The song's influence on Russian rock musicians was so significant that "Rough Sunset" quickly gained popularity among listeners. Today, the album continues to inspire musicians around the world. For example, the American post-punk band The National made a new video that pays homage to Zvuki Mu, using elements of their work in the video for the single Sea of ​​Love.

"Gruby Zakat" is an outstanding post-punk track in Russian. Although the rest of the album may not reach its level, the album is worth listening to in its entirety. The ironic lyrics of Novoselov reference their previous work, while the wild cacophony of the track "Armored Trains" represents a new era in the post-Soviet music scene. The album showcases a unique style and profound ideas, making it essential reading for fans of post-punk and Russian-language music.

The best lines of the song: "I wish I could drink coffee now, / Yesterday's sunset was so harsh, / My lips hurt." These words from the track "Rough Sunset" convey feelings and emotions familiar to many. They are filled with melancholy and nostalgia, making them particularly memorable.

"Straw Raccoons" - "Island-Fortress"

The year 1997 was marked by many significant events that impacted various areas of life. This year, the world witnessed important advances in technology, culture, and politics. The emergence of new internet technologies has been fundamental to the further development of the digital age. In particular, the first web browser was launched in 1997, significantly simplifying access to information online.

In the cultural sphere, 1997 was marked by the release of several iconic films, musicians, and albums that remain relevant today. Political events also did not go unnoticed, as important changes occurred in various countries that influenced international relations.

Thus, 1997 became a key moment that determined the development of many aspects of modern society. Its influence is felt today, as the foundations laid that year continue to shape our reality.

"Solomenye Raccoons" is a Moscow-based band that successfully combines elements of post-punk and classic garage punk. Vocalist and songwriter Boris Usov has created numerous provocative tracks that continue to surprise fans with new discoveries in his discography. The album "Island-Fortress" is the band's most intense work, consisting of sixteen short songs, each of which purposefully affects the emotional and social aspects of the listener. Usov's nihilistic lyrics do not shy away from controversial topics, including politics and anti-militarism, which emphasizes the protest spirit of post-punk. This music not only reflects the mood of the times but also makes you think about the important issues of our time.

The instrumental of "Rodina-Set" with its raw energy and the provocative lines in the track "Japan" demonstrate Usov's constant experimentation with music and lyrics, aimed at creating a unique Russian subtype of post-punk. The music of the band "Solomenye Enoty" is not aimed at a mass audience, but if you are not embarrassed by musical experimentation and frank lyrics, the album "Island-Fortress" will be an excellent starting point for getting to know this cult band. Discover new facets of sound and lyrics that can become the basis for your love of their work.

The best lines: "I myself don't know what happiness means, / And if I knew, I wouldn't be here" from the piece "Japan" reflect deep reflections on the nature of happiness. These words emphasize the uncertainty of a person in the search for the true meaning of life and happiness. They engage readers and encourage reflection on their own feelings and experiences. The poem "Japan" becomes a striking example of literature capable of evoking an emotional response and provoking profound thoughts about happiness and its inaccessibility.

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Egor Letov is a multifaceted personality, whose work and life arouse interest and admiration. He became a symbol of an entire generation, combining elements of punk rock, poetry and social protest in his work. His impeccable style, distinctive fire-breathing voice and unique approach to music made him a cult figure in Russian musical culture. Letov was not afraid to express his thoughts and feelings in songs, which attracted many fans to him. His creative legacy includes not only music but also poetry, where he deeply explores themes of human emotions and social issues. The pie, which became a symbol of his ease and sincerity, reflects his approach to life - simple, yet filled with meaning. Letov left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, and his work continues to inspire new artists and fans.

"Kolibri" - "Bes sakhara"

1997 was a landmark year in history. This year saw many significant events both in the world and in individual countries. In the political sphere, changes were observed that influenced international relations. Economic crises and technological advances also left their mark, shaping the future for many countries.

In the field of culture, 1997 was a year of significant releases in film, music, and literature. The films that were released gained popularity and became classics, and new musical trends began to shape the modern sound. This year also marked important events in the sporting world, which fans will remember for years to come. 1997 thus marks a significant milestone, one that shaped many aspects of our lives and influenced the future. The Kolibri album is of great interest for two main reasons. First, the superb performances of vocalists Elena Yudanova, Irina Sharovatova, Inna Volkova, and Natalia Pivovarova are capable of touching even the most hardened skeptics. Second, the dark humor in the lyrics sets Kolibri apart from other post-punk bands. Their funny and ironic lyrics are a rarity in post-punk, making their work unique and memorable. The album is worth listening to for all lovers of high-quality music that combines emotional depth and wit.

The quartet of vocalists "Kolibri" created a unique composition "Bes sakhara", in collaboration with unexpected partners - the group Tequilajazzz. The instrumental work of Evgeny Fedorov's band, rich in jazz motifs, harmoniously complements the voices of the band members. By blending post-punk with art rock, Kolibri achieved a striking effect: their lyrics immerse listeners in deep thought, while the atmospheric sound encourages dancing. Songs like "Such a Life" and "Land, Who Am I" still have the potential to become hits, as Kolibri's sound has retained its relevance, unlike many other bands of the 1990s.

The song's best lines: "Don't you dare hinder me / And don't wish to help, / Don't stand in my way, / Forgive and farewell" ("Land, Who Am I") reflect deep emotions and internal conflicts. These words convey a sense of longing for freedom and independence, as well as the need to leave the past behind. The author's work is imbued with sincerity and strength, allowing listeners to find resonance in their own experiences. The song becomes a symbol of the struggle for personal boundaries and self-respect.

"Lisichkin Bread" - "Nothing New"

The year 2000 saw many significant events that impacted various areas of life. This year became an important milestone in the development of technology, culture, and politics. In the field of technology, the active spread of the Internet began, which led to a change in the methods of communication and access to information. The emergence of new software products and devices contributed to the growth of the digital economy.

In the cultural sphere, 2000 saw important events, such as the premieres of iconic films and music albums, which influenced trends in the arts. Political changes occurring in various countries also had a significant impact on international relations.

Thus, the year 2000 became an important milestone in history, influencing the further development of technology, culture, and politics.

The Moscow band "Lisichkin Khleb" (Little Fox Bread) rose to prominence in the early 1990s thanks to their anarcho-punk sound. The young musicians created such a loud sound at their concerts that only a few listeners remained in the halls. By the late 1990s, the band, led by vocalist Boris Pokidko, evolved, switching to a more lyrical post-punk sound. A simple yet memorable instrumental base, combined with profound and emotional lyrics, made the album "Nothing New" a true cry from the heart, still relevant today. "Lisichkin Khleb" continues to be a significant figure on the music scene, attracting the attention of both old fans and new listeners.

Pokidko's album consists of fourteen tracks, which together last twenty-seven minutes. Although some compositions cannot claim hit status, this did not diminish the album's influence. The group "Lisichkin Bleed" continues to actively release new records and tour the country. Depressive songs such as "Balls" and "You Can" are rare examples of genuine underground music. In post-punk, as we know, technical perfection is not always a priority. "Lisichkin Bleed" faithfully follows the main principle of the genre - "do it yourself." In his tracks, Pokidko adds inserts with readings of his own poems, which stand out for his intense voice and deep emotionality.

The poem "Balls" vividly expresses the theme of the loss of a hometown. The lines "My city is no longer mine, / It's a cast, / A deaf-mute model" convey a feeling of alienation and loss. The author masterfully uses metaphors to emphasize how a native place loses its individuality and becomes just a soulless copy. This creates a deep emotional impact on the reader, forcing them to think about the connection between a person and their environment.

Motorama — Alps

The year 2010 saw many significant events that impacted various areas of life. It was a year when the world continued to recover from the global economic crisis, and countries were looking for ways to stabilize their economies. In the political sphere, changes were observed that impacted international relations. 2010 also saw rapid growth in technology, with the emergence of new devices and innovative solutions that transformed people's daily lives. Culture was also undergoing transformation, with new trends in art, music, and film reflecting societal changes. This year marked a significant milestone, paving the way for new challenges and opportunities to be faced in the future. Rostov-based band Motorama became a landmark in the revival of Russian post-punk. In the early 2000s, the genre had lost popularity, leading to boredom among both musicians and listeners. However, with the arrival of Western bands like Interpol and The National, a new wave of interest in post-punk emerged that swept the globe. Motorama's members went beyond their local audience and began creating an international post-punk scene, performing their lyrics in English. Their music is attracting attention not only in Russia but also abroad, introducing fresh ideas to the genre and awakening interest in post-punk among a new audience.

The plan worked without a hitch. The band's debut album, Alps, quickly became a hit among post-punk fans, and the songs "Wind in Her Hair," "Ghost," and "Alps" have already surpassed 10 million plays on Spotify. Motorama's music, although not distinguished by complex experiments, attracts attention with its atmosphere. Vladislav Parshin's vocals combine elements of Ian Curtis and Matt Berninger of The National, while melodic guitars and drum machine-like drums create the feel of a commercial interpretation of post-punk. However, this doesn't detract from the charm—the summer melancholy conveyed by Motorama is truly profound.

One of the most memorable lines is: "If everyone falls on their knees, / I will always be ready to die for this beauty" ("Alps"). These words emphasize deep feelings and devotion to beauty that inspires and transforms. This phrase vividly illustrates passion and emotional involvement, which makes it especially appealing to listeners.

"Gully" - "Proletariat"

The year 2015 saw many significant events in various fields. It was a year when the world witnessed changes in political, economic and cultural life. Conflicts intensified on the international arena, new challenges to global security emerged, and attention to environmental and sustainable development issues increased.

In the economy, 2015 was marked by market fluctuations, falling oil prices and growing interest in alternative energy sources. Socially, there was a rise in activism related to human rights and equality, reflected in mass movements around the world.

The cultural scene also underwent changes, with new trends in art, music, and film captivating audiences. In this context, 2015 marked a time when society began to rethink many established values ​​and approaches.

Thus, 2015 became an important milestone in history, leaving a significant mark on people's consciousness and shaping new trends for the future.

In the 2020s, the Novosibirsk duo has been criticized for repetitive elements in their work, but in 2015, their EP "Proletariat" became a milestone in Russian post-punk. The booming guitar and expressive bass create a dynamic comparable to electronic music, and the laconic lyrics are memorable from the first listen. The album "Gully" demonstrated that winning over an audience is possible not through the quantity of tracks, but through their quality. Although the release only contains four compositions, their influence continues to be felt: "Sportivnye Goggles" continues to be featured on thematic post-punk playlists, and "Elektropoezd Lastochka" takes listeners back to the carefree atmosphere of the 2010s. This EP became a significant event, opening new horizons for Russian post-punk.

Ten years after the release of their EP, the band "Buerak" continues to attract attention, gaining around 250,000 listeners a month on their official Spotify page. Many have tried to replicate their success, but only a few have stood the test of time. Artem Cherepanov and Alexander Makeev continue to actively tour cities across Russia, giving fans a unique opportunity to relive the atmosphere of a bygone era. Unlike such popular bands as "Molchat Doma" and "Peremotka," "Buerak" stands out for its lack of pathos. Why listen to yet another attempt to imitate Joy Division when a track like "Unclear Guiding Impulse" evokes much more nostalgia and emotion?

The song "Proletariat" features the memorable lines: "I work alone, sometimes for everyone, / I am the most honest man in the world." These words reflect the difficulties and contradictions that workers face. They emphasize individual effort and dedication, as well as the pursuit of fairness in the face of injustice. Analyzing these lines, one can see a deep social subtext that is still relevant in today's society.

Chernikovskaya Hata — Chernikovskaya Hata

In 2016, many significant events occurred that influenced various areas of life. In the political sphere, the world witnessed important elections and changes in governments in various countries. The economy continued to adapt to new realities, including technological advances and the impact of globalization. In the field of science and technology, we saw significant advances, such as breakthroughs in medicine, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. Also in 2016, issues of ecology and climate change were actively discussed, emphasizing the importance of a sustainable approach to the planet's resources. This year has been a crucial milestone in shaping the future and setting new trends.

A band that reimagines Soviet hits in a post-punk style is certainly not the pinnacle of musical art. However, the Ufa-based team Chernikovskaya Hata is ready to challenge this notion. Transforming an iconic song into a unique work is no easy task. That's why the tracks from Chernikovskaya Hata's debut album continue to resonate with listeners. It's hard to imagine that songs like "I'll Bet on Zero," "Coffee," or Mikhail Shufutinsky's "Third of September" could once again sound relevant and fresh. Chernikovskaya Hata's music demonstrates how traditional melodies can be reimagined and adapted to contemporary musical trends.

The Ufa band Chernikovskaya Hata decided on an interesting experiment by recording a cover of the song "The Last Autumn" without using lyrics. Despite this, the original composition is easily recognizable. Chernikovskaya Hata is not just a cover band, but something more. From a musical point of view, their work should not be compared with such bands as "Buerak" or Motorama. Their style can be characterized as extremely simple post-punk, in which multilayered guitar riffs, expressive bass and melancholic vocals create an atmosphere familiar to many fans of the genre.

Best covers: all versions. Covers are unique interpretations of famous songs that allow listeners to experience familiar melodies in a new light. We've collected the most outstanding covers that have captivated audiences with their performance and original approach. These musical works not only preserve the spirit of the original but also add fresh emotions and sound. Discover the best covers that deserve your attention.

Reading is an important aspect of our lives that helps develop thinking and broaden horizons. It contributes to the improvement of memory, concentration, and analytical skills. Reading books, articles, and other materials allows you to deepen your knowledge in various fields and remains the best way of self-education. Regular reading also helps reduce stress levels and promotes overall emotional well-being. Books can also inspire new ideas and solutions in your professional life. Start reading today to discover new horizons and improve your quality of life.

The History of Jazz in the USSR: How the Soviet Intelligentsia Fell in Love with the Music of the American Ordinary

Jazz in the USSR became a symbol of cultural exchange and musical experimentation, attracting the attention of the Soviet intelligentsia. In the 1920s, this genre penetrated the Soviet Union, where it was perceived as something new and unusual. Despite official censorship and restrictions, jazz quickly gained popularity among young people and the creative elite.

Soviet musicians began to adapt American melodies, creating unique compositions that combined elements of jazz with folk music. This contributed to the formation of a new musical style that reflected the spirit of the times and the desire for freedom of expression.

The intelligentsia saw jazz not only as entertainment but also as an opportunity for self-expression. Jazz concerts filled halls, and musicians became idols for young people. However, with the onset of repression in the 1930s, jazz began to be perceived as a threat to ideological purity. As a result, many performers were forced into hiding or exile. Despite this, jazz continued to thrive underground, and after World War II, it began to regain popularity. From the 1950s onward, jazz artists such as Oleg Lungin and Igor Butman rose to international prominence, and the Soviet intelligentsia rediscovered the music.

Thus, jazz in the USSR became not only a musical phenomenon, but also an important cultural phenomenon that contributed to the exchange of ideas and the formation of new views on art.