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Infectious and volatile, Russian Gypsy music reflects a vibrant culture that has triumphed in the face of adversity. Driven by the distinctive seven-stringed guitar, this release celebrates the enduring strength of Russian Gypsy culture. 'The Rough Guide to the Music of Russian Gypsies' is accompanied by a FREE bonus CD by the Kolpakov Duo - 'The Art of Russian-Gypsy Guitar'. The legendary guitarist Alexander (Sasha) Kolpakov with his nephew and protg Vadim Kolpakov combine on this recording as The Kolpakov Duo. Sasha began playing the unique Russian seven-stringed guitar as a young boy and throughout his long career developed his own distinctive style - going on to perform with a number Russian-Romani ensembles and later becoming the musical director of the famous Gypsy 'Romen Theatre'. Vadim has become one of the most renowned gypsy guitar virtuosos in the world, giving performances at Carnegie Hall, the Kremlin and countless Romani festivals. In 2008 and 2009, the Kolpakov Trio (Alexander, Vadim and the phenomenal violinist Arkady Gips) made headlines, performing as part of Madonna's 'Sticky & Sweet' tour.