2019 marks the 40th anniversary of Elton John’s landmark tour of Russia, where he stunned audiences as the first rocker to perform in the country.  His concerts there were intimate events where he performed alongside percussion master Ray Cooper.  The stripped-down duo performances showed a side of Elton that had rarely been seen in the preceding decade, as he revisited classics and new songs alike with a fiery intensity. Elton’s May 28 show was broadcast on the BBC and tapes of the show quickly made the rounds among his legion of fans. …