Soviet Rock

This documentary, produced for Finnish television, delves into the history and impact of Spring Rhythms ("Весенние ритмы"), one of the first rock festivals to be officially sanctioned in the Soviet Union. Set in Tbilisi during March of 1980, the event was masterminded by influential music journalist Artemiy Troitskiy and received support from the Georgian government. The narrative unfolds through a blend of archival footage and interviews with key participants, offering an intimate look at the festival's atmosphere, musical performances, and unforeseen challenges.A highlight of the documentary is the recounting of how the popular "Аквариум" band was removed from the stage due to their provocative behavior, which not only exemplified the tensions between artistic expression and political constraints during this era but also served as a turning point in the festival's trajectory. The documentary concludes with an exploration of the lasting impact of Spring Rhythms on Soviet music culture and its influence on subsequent events, culminating in the release of the official album in 1981.