Alexander Lunev

Alexander Lunev known to his closest friends, as 'nomad' is a self-taught, highly prolific Russian music composer and producer was born on 28thJune 1967.

He grew up in a town called Pavlodar, situated on the banks of the Irtysh River in Kazakhstan, a former republic of the USSR where the only available music at the time was communist propaganda and WWII-era songs.

Now a rising star of the music industry and one of today's most talented, versatile and consistent hit composers Music News caught up with Alexander and pointed a few questions.


MN: Who is your typical listener?

Alexander Lunev: It totally depends on the performer. Say, Dima Bilan or Dima Koldun appeal more to those between 12 and 25 year olds; while Nicolai Baskov, Alexander Buinov or Sophia Rotaru are popular among 25-50 year olds. As for my instrumental music, it is written for an audience of all ages. I believe those between 20 and 70 would like it most.

MN: Are you a fan of pipe music and do you think you can easily incorporate it in some of your pieces?

Alexander Lunev: It is with trepidation that I listen to organ music. It goes to the farthest corners of our soul and evokes something that is hidden from ourselves. I would love to incorporate the real organ music in my compositions, and perhaps, it will happen in the nearest future.

MN: Is musical expression easy in Russia?

Alexander Lunev: It is as easy as in any other country of the world. Musical self-expression depends more on inner world of the composer than on the external factors, though I wouldn't dismiss the latter altogether. In today's Russia, I observe, with a great delight, an undeniable professional growth of musicians.

MN: What 3 musical instruments do you cherish and why?

Alexander Lunev: Every instrument has its own beauty and purpose. And since I am a bit lyrical and romantic, I cherish guitar, violin and French horn. Although the most unique instrument is the voice itself.

MN: Do kindly name 3 musical acts that have influenced you?

Alexander Lunev: I can't! There are much more than three. I loved totally different acts during different periods of my life. To this day, I can't cease to admire the genius music of Tchaikovsky. Then there are few excellent modern pieces that I love. But the number one act will be the Queen. I practically grew up with this music. I am in love with absolutely unique music of the Queen.

MN: Which track has been your favourite and why?

Alexander Lunev: My most favourite track? It is the "Ocean" from my first album. Many share the opinion that they distinctively feel all the power and depth of this element.

MN: Which of your music was the most difficult to produce and why?

Alexander Lunev: Well, I think it was my first instrumental album "Through The Eyes Of The Eagle." I lived through every composition and felt it from inside. I have tried to put all of my life experience and my passion in to that album.

MN: How would you describe your music to a normal listener?

Alexander Lunev: In brief, I would call it "My soul's flight through the instruments."

MN: What do you think of Sigur Ros and Mogwai?

Alexander Lunev: Sigur Ross make an intensely visual music. I would probably call it an "alternative to alternative music." Non-commercial, but with a genius marketing twist of untitled songs and a fictional, if I'm not mistaken, language.

I am not very familiar with Mogwai, but of what I've listened to it sounds like an apocalyptic-scale mix of melancholy strings alongside storms of heavy metal rock. There is an element of adventurousness that makes Mogwai less dire than other post-rock bands.

MN: Who was your favourite act you worked with and why?

Alexander Lunev: Most of all, I like working with professionals, that live in the music. It makes my work much easier and more fun. I am very grateful that I have exactly this type of people working around me.

MN: Where does your inspiration stem from?

Alexander Lunev: It comes from different places, sometimes by request, but more often without any invitation. And I know for sure that it is not a man's trait. It's a God's gift.