Justin Sane of Anti-Flag standing in front of Lenin's tomb.

Pittsburgh's latest ambassador to Russia is none other than Anti-Flag.

The spiky political punk band, touring in advance of the release of "The Bright Lights of America," rocked Russia this week, hitting Moscow on Tuesday and St. Petersburg on Wednesday.

It's the band's first trip to the country, and it was a bear-sized success, according to singer Justin Sane.

He sent us an email dispatch on Thursday with an update:

"Life here has been the best! Cold, of course, but extremely interesting and exciting. Flew into Moscow from Heathrow via Warsaw. Greeted by incredibly hospitable hosts.

"Up early the next morning and took the subway to Red Square where we indulged in the purchase of mindless consumer [stuff] (souvenirs for the family... Moscow magnets, traditional style Cossack hats, Russian dolls) in what was once the heart of the anti-capitalist struggle. Impressive in every way, Red Square was a real treat! Got a great pic in front of Lenin's grave. There's currently a skating rink sitting in the square playing traditional winter holiday style music which made for quite an interesting juxtaposition given the history of the place.

"The show was incredible! We rocked Moscow for 1000+ people. The venue only held 1000 people; another 1000 were turned away at the door. With no barrier to keep kids off the stage our set was complete MAYHEM!!! Apparently no barrier is usually not a problem as the bouncers rough up any kids who dare to get up on stage, but we refused to let the bouncers on stage or lay a hand on any kid, so it was a free for all!!! Other than guitars being continuously knocked out of tune, a number of drunk kids attempting to hang on us and sing along, and the occasional cute Russian girl kissing us while singing, the set was without incident -- almost... I got hit in the teeth once when my mic stand was accidently pushed into my face by a stage diving kid, but those things will happen under such circumstances.

"We rode a train overnight from Moscow to St. Petersburg! Sleeper cars! FUN!!! St. Pete is a beautiful city. More classic than what I saw of Moscow. (By the way, the traffic in Moscow is HORRIBLE!!! It was LA-type traffic. Six lanes of bumper to bumper! Good thing the subway is excellent, albeit busy!) Again, another great show, only this time with a barricade and no kids on stage! We'll be posting video from both shows on YOUTUBE at some point...

"Overall the entire tour has been a huge success. Germany was incredible. We might currently be more popular in Germany than any other part of the world...

"So all is excellent here. Helsinki tomorrow. Very tired but no worse for the wear.

"Hope you're well. Please Give Pittsburgh my best!!!"

-- Justin