Lviv larks

Lviv’s lively street celebrations almost defy belief more than 550 days after Russia launched its crazed invasion.

Above, crowds gathered to banish the blues as a series of acts entertained citizens before the city suffered its first bomb attack shortly after I left for Kyiv.

I’ve raved about these guys sho_strings already. Now my friend Marina has tracked down their Instagram channel if you want more. It’s out there but the link doesn’t always work for me.

They are, quite frankly, the best street musicians I’ve ever seen. Bloody fantastic.

It’s mostly blokes, but this charming young woman was giving off strong Joni Mitchell vibes.

And in any street gathering there’s always a header.

‘You want to shoot Putin?’ this one said. I fancy he’s first up against the wall if Russia ever gets here.

I declined the offer but he had a fair few takers. Potshots at Putin with an air rifle and pellets. Three-second vid so pay attention!

Not to be outdone, oldies brought a 20th century vibe to the party.

I like that they chose to serenade national poet Taras Shevchenko with this one. Classy.

Even kids were enraptured by the variety.

And finally, the funniest one. Play to the end.