The Red Elvises, an American band, has kicked off its Russia tour in Moscow. Three of their albums, 'Surfing in Siberia', 'Russian Bellydance' and 'Grooving to the Moscow Beat' have been a huge success in North America.

The balalaika, a wooden instrument with three strings, triangular in shape, is one of the main symbols of the Russian folklore.
 
“As with every folk instrument, the balalaika conforms to the peculiarities of the language of the nation. Its sound imitates Russian speech, which is distinct and chattering,” said Viktor Kondakov, folk instrument maker.
 
Nowadays, the folk symbol has become a cool kitsch trend. The Red Elvises are famous for their big red bass-balalaika all across the U.S. Their recipe for success is good old rock-n-roll mixed with traditional Russian melodies.
 

Fans at the concert

The band members are all Russian. They emigrated to California from Siberia in the 1990s and formed a rock-n-roll group. This summer, they have come to their native land for a month-long tour.
 
Unfortunately, the Red Elvises haven't brought their famous balalaika with them. They say it's too difficult to carry.
 
“It doesn't fly, it's too big. Even though it looks like a flying V. It doesn't matter what to have fun with, you know,” commented Oleg Bernov, band member.
 
Maybe it is their Soviet kitsch style or just good old rock-n-roll which keeps them on top – whatever the answer they have a solid fan base.