Uma2rman is a Russian music group founded in 2003 by brothers Vladimir and Sergey Krestovsky. The band’s name is a wordplay and a reference to actress Uma Thurman, reflecting the musicians’ ironic and free-spirited character.
The group became famous for its unique style, combining pop rock, light jazz, chanson-style lyricism and urban romance, creating a special atmosphere of warmth and philosophical ease.
Formation and early years
Sergey Krestovsky was born on 18 November 1967, and Vladimir Krestovsky on 19 August 1975.
Both showed interest in music from an early age: Sergey in guitar and lyrics, Vladimir in singing and composing melodies. They grew up in an intellectual family and were involved in creativity from their youth, performing in small clubs and experimenting with various styles — from courtyard romance to blues.
The idea to create their own band came in the early 2000s. The musicians wanted to write simple, sincere music that would be close to every listener. In 2003, the project officially took shape under the name Uma2rman, and soon the brothers signed a contract with producer Leonid Burlakov (who had previously worked with Zemfira and Mumiy Troll).
This meeting proved crucial: the band gained a distinctive sound, professional production and the opportunity to record their debut album.
Breakthrough and rise to fame
Their debut album “V gorode N” (“In City N”, 2004) brought the band instant success.
The songs “Praskovya”, “Uma Turman” and “Dozhd” (“Rain”) became their calling cards, while radio rotation and music TV channels turned them into heroes of a new generation of listeners.
Uma2rman’s music sounded tender, ironic and refined, and the lyrics — lyrical and relatable. At a time when the Russian pop scene gravitated toward pathos, the band brought a “breath of fresh air” — lightness and sincerity without artificial poses.
Artistic style
The band’s style is hard to confine to a single genre. It is a fusion of pop rock, blues, jazz, urban romance and philosophical lyricism.
Uma2rman’s music is soft and acoustic, with light rhythms and melodic guitar lines. Vladimir Krestovsky’s vocals are calm and sincere, while Sergey’s lyrics are often based on everyday observations, nostalgia and gentle irony.
Key elements of their sound:
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atmospheric arrangements with elements of lounge and jazz;
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lyrics about love, memories, dreams and everyday life;
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a warm, conversational tone, as if talking directly to the listener;
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a harmonious blend of simplicity and poetic depth.
Discography (selected albums)
| Year | Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | V gorode N | Debut album. Includes the hits “Praskovya”, “Dozhd”, “Uma Turman”. |
| 2005 | Kuda privodyat mechty (“Where Dreams Lead”) | Builds on the success. Features “Prostitsya” and “Vesyolye pesni”. |
| 2007 | Omar Khayyam | An album with a philosophical mood and Eastern motifs. |
| 2011 | Ne nashyol (“Didn’t Find”) | A more experimental, electronic-leaning release. |
| 2015 | Veshchestva (“Substances”) | A return to acoustic sound, reflecting the band’s maturity. |
| 2020 | Poy, vesna! (“Sing, Spring!”) | A bright, optimistic album with elements of retro pop and romance. |
Awards and recognition
Uma2rman are recipients of several major music awards:
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“Golden Gramophone” for the song “Praskovya”;
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“Pesnya goda” (“Song of the Year”) for “Uma Turman” and “Dozhd”;
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Special distinctions from Russkoye Radio for their contribution to light pop music.
Their songs have frequently appeared on soundtracks for films and TV series, including popular titles of the early 2000s.
Live shows and activity
The band actively tours across Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and other CIS countries.
Their concerts are known for live sound, humor and a heartfelt atmosphere.
Uma2rman have performed at major festivals such as “Nashestvie”, “Zhara”, “Novaya volna” (“New Wave”), as well as in intimate clubs where the audience sings along to every line.
Interesting facts
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The name Uma2rman is a visual and verbal play: the number “2” symbolizes the Krestovsky brothers.
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The song “Praskovya” was inspired by real memories — nostalgic images of childhood and provincial summer.
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The band does not use playback: all concerts are performed live.
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Vladimir Krestovsky has tried his hand in film and television, but remains devoted to music.
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Uma2rman have repeatedly taken part in charity events and concerts in support of children and medical workers.
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Their songs often contain quotations and subtle literary references — from Bulgakov to Khayyam.
Current stage
Today, Uma2rman continue to release new music while preserving their signature style — gentle, melodic and human.
Their work remains a rare example of how simplicity and sincerity can sound both profound and contemporary.
Vladimir and Sergey Krestovsky keep touring, writing music and working on new material, maintaining a close connection with their audience.
Legacy
Uma2rman is more than just a music project; it is a phenomenon of sincere, author-driven music in which everyone can find a reflection of themselves.
They have proven that romance and kindness can be stylish, and a simple song can become timeless.
Their work has become part of the cultural code of the 2000s, and their songs — the soundtrack of an entire generation.
