Melnitsa is a Russian folk-rock band. Founded on October 15, 1999, in Moscow, Melnitsa plays acoustic and electroacoustic music. Instruments include cello, flute, melodica, zhaleika, saxophone, percussion, guitar (acoustic and electric), drums, bass guitar (acoustic in the studio, electric in the live version), and harp. Lead singer Helavisa primarily sings. The lyrics and music are based on folk (Celtic, Scandinavian, Slavic), as well as medieval songs, ballads, and legends; rock and metal influences are felt in the music and fantasy in the lyrics