Korol i Shut

A Soviet and Russian horror punk band from Saint Petersburg, formed in Leningrad in 1988 by three classmates: Mikhail Gorshenev (Gorshok), Alexander Shchigolev (Poruchik), and Alexander Balunov (Balu). Initially named "Kontora," the band focused on punk rock with corresponding lyrics and music. Later, Andrey Knyazev (Knyaz) joined, becoming a co-author of most songs. The band stood out with its unique style, combining horror punk with elements of folk rock, art punk, hardcore punk, and hard rock. Their songs often featured fantasy, mystical, historical, and horror themes, presented as complete stories. The band's stage image included makeup and costumes matching the song themes. Over 26 years, they released 12 studio albums, including "Kamnem po golove," "Bud' kak doma, putnik!," "Geroi i zlodei," "Kak v staroy skazke," "Bunt na korable," "Teatr demona," and the rock musical "TODD." In 2008, they received the RAMP award in the "Respect Runeta" category. After Mikhail Gorshenev's death in 2013, the band ceased active operations, but its legacy continues through the musical "TODD," books, films, and series dedicated to its history.