Balalaika: Russia's Most Beautiful Songs

I bought this album for my husband after he watched home videos of his Russian side of the family set to the Russian folk songs he remembered hearing in his grandparents house while growing up. I searched a long time to find an album that has that quintessential Russian sound - this one definitely does not disappoint. He loves it so much, he bought it for his mother for her birthday...brought tears to her eyes with all the many wonderful memories of her parents who have now passed on.

There are a lot of perennial Russian folk favorites in this selection that seem to be revitalized by the "Stars of Saint Petersburg" balaika arrangements. I bought this CD a few weeks back and have not tired of listening to it. A refreshing edition to any world music collection.

GOD, I LOVE THIS CD!! I recently purchased several different CDs of Russian folk music, a number of which were quite good--but this one shines out above all the others. Extremely lively, energetic, delightful renditions of classic folk songs, with virtuoso performances on the balalaika, accordion, and other traditional instruments. I have small collections of folk music recordings from various traditions, including Irish, Scottish, Spanish, Latin American, South African, etc., which include some blisteringly good CDs. This one is the equal of any of them. It is one of those rare CDs that is unrelentingly excellent and sparkles and crackles with energy all the way through. Only a dead person would not enjoy this CD. [Or maybe dead people would, too?]

This is an excellent album all on folk instruments. All the artists have incredible technique. A real treat well worth buying.

I am very pleased with this CD. It includes musical selections I have heard while visiting friends in the past and is very soothing and comforting to listen to during a long day of work.