Sonic Death is a Russian garage rock band from Saint Petersburg. The founder, frontman, and lead vocalist of the group is Arseny Morozov, also known for his solo project “Arseny Krestitel” and the band Padla Bear Outfit.
Sonic Death's Stance on the War in Ukraine
The Band's Position Prior to 2022
Prior to February 24, 2022, the group enjoyed a substantial following in both Russia and Ukraine, frequently touring Ukrainian cities. According to Arseny Morozov, following the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the outbreak of the war in Donbas, performing in Ukraine became psychologically challenging: the band members experienced an overwhelming sense of guilt and embarrassment before the Ukrainian public over the policies and actions of the Russian state.
Reaction to the Full-Scale Invasion
Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Sonic Death took an unequivocal stand against the war.
On February 24, 2022, an anti-war post reading “No to war” was published on the band's Instagram page.
Anti-War Rallies and Emigration from Russia
On February 27, 2022, the members of the band called on citizens to take part in anti-war street protests:
Today at 16:00 local time, on the main square of your city, say NO TO WAR!
Morozov later recalled the protest rally in Saint Petersburg: “There was a deeply grim feeling after all of that. I realized that nobody cared.” Following the rally, the band made the definitive choice to leave Russia.
On February 25, 2022, the band members collectively made the decision to leave Russia. Morozov recounted having abandoned a newly purchased apartment in Saint Petersburg, in which he had managed to live for merely three days.
Arseny Morozov's Statements on the War
In his interviews, the frontman of Sonic Death outspokenly denounces Russian aggression.
On the aftermath of the war and Bucha: «Because all meaning has now collided with this war. Bucha revealed what stands behind the mysterious 'Turgenev maiden.' Murder stands behind her. Russians are no longer enigmatic — everything is crystal clear about them.
On Russian aggression and national accountability: «And not a single Russian knelt down before Ukrainians. All of this is such an utter disgrace and complete f*ck-up... Russia will only begin to find its true self when it apologizes to all the nations it has oppressed and tormented.
On Russian society: «In Kazakhstan, I opened our performance with the words 'Fuck Russia.'
Instagram Posts
Sonic Death's Anti-War Art
Sonic Death dedicated a significant portion of their creative output to the war and Ukraine. The group released the track “Victory of Ukraine”, and on December 16, 2022, the album “Donkey of War”. The musicians also performed on stages decorated with Ukrainian trident symbols and organized charity events.
Following the outbreak of the war, Morozov began translating the band's tracks into Ukrainian. Several songs on the album “Donkey of War” were recorded in Ukrainian, with the musician extending a personal apology to Ukrainians for his pronunciation.
Despite the fact that the band still retains the technical possibility of returning to perform in Russia, Arseny categorically rules it out:
I speak to guys from Ukraine almost every single day. And what, we're supposed to go perform in Russia? And post photos online? While they are being bombed over there? What kind of insanity is that?
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