The Original Flying Balalaika Brothers were formed in Los Angeles in 1995 by Zhenya Kolykhanov (a.k.a. Z Rock), the former lead guitarist of the Russion surf/rockabilly group Red Elvises. The group started as a street band and later transformed into the group Red Elvises, which had a large history of performing for clubs, motion pictures, and television shows in California. After Zhenya set up shop in Austin, Texas, he reestablished The Flying Balalaika Brothers. The band represents a blend of Russian folk music, traditional world music and original musical pieces. The group has found a home in the musically rich culture of Austin, bringing with them an old European street charm and gypsy punk antics in a style that can only be described as what happens when “Russian Caviar meets Texas Barbecue.” The Flying Balalaika Brothers’ current lineup consists of Zhenya Kolykhanov (prima balalaika, main vocals, banjo, guitar, accordion conjunto), Aleksander Kuznetzov (bass balalaika, vocals, percussions, bass guitar), and Segrey Vashchenko (vocals, prima balalaikas, bass balalaika, bayan.)