Ансамбль Арсенал

**Ансамбль Арсенал** is a pioneering Soviet jazz-rock collective formed in 1973 by renowned saxophonist Alexei Kozlov. As the first professional jazz-rock ensemble in the USSR, "Arsenal" gained popularity by performing underground, including a notable rendition of the banned rock opera "Jesus Christ Superstar," which they arranged and recorded in secret. The group officially gained recognition in 1976 when they became affiliated with the Kaliningrad Philharmonic. Over the years, "Arsenal" has been known for its eclectic blend of jazz, rock, and fusion, with compositions often written by Kozlov himself. The group has released several albums and has performed internationally, including notable performances at Carnegie Hall in 1995.

In 1999, Alexei Kozlov reformed "Arsenal" with a new lineup, exploring the style of New Emotional Music. The ensemble continues to evolve, with a focus on innovative musical experiments. Their repertoire includes works by various composers, both domestic and international. "Arsenal" remains a significant figure in Russian jazz, celebrated for its unique sound and contributions to the genre.