Rock Band Speaks to Generation of Belarussians

"Right now, it's almost impossible for us to prove that our concerts are banned, but local authorities are doing everything they can to prevent us from performing," said Lavon Volski, the front man of N.R.M., the most popular native rock group in Belarus. Clubs that try to book the band will get "that magic ring from above," he said, and suddenly the gig has been canceled. Concerts also require permits, which are expensive. And even after it's been paid for, the permit can be revoked.

The group, whose name translates as "Independent Republic of Dreams," makes music with a strong social message, encouraging Belarus's youth to take responsibility for their own identity and independence as Belarussians. The song "Majo pakalennie" is more lyrical and introspective than many of their other, harder-driving songs. But its lyrics capture the essence of N.R.M.'s social message.

"We put a lot of ideas in the texts of our songs, and the fact that we have supporters shows that we touch the hearts and minds of people who disagree with the political situation," said Volski. "Maybe if the political situation changes, N.R.M. won't exist. I would be happy to live until then."

Here is a translation of the lyrics of the band's song, "My Generation."

My generation

Had been living in the darkness.

Now the darkness for it

Is also the light.

My generation

Had been living at the border

With an iron screen

In the very soul.