Das Ich – Fanal (Digital/CD/Vinyl/Cassette Album – Danse Macabre Records)
“Fanal” is the first new album by Das Ich in almost 20 years. Bruno Kramm and, in particular, vocalist Stefan Ackermann went through turbulent times, which meant that a new album failed to materialize for a long period. Eventually, during the COVID era, work began on a completely different project that ultimately evolved into “Fanal”.
“Fanal” stands for a beacon — a light meant to warn humanity of its inevitable decline. Das Ich have lost none of their original dramatic intensity and depth. The lyrics, still performed in their native language, sound extremely dark and hopeless. They reflect a world in decay, a civilization in the process of destroying itself. This perspective is both philosophical and deeply human, making extensive use of rich and symbolic imagery. Musically, this is reinforced by the unmistakable bombast of Kramm’s electronic structures and orchestral arrangements, now enhanced by his own cello performances. The songs feel raw and theatrical, more than ever resembling the perfect Soundtrack for an apocalyptic, nihilistic film. Despite the heaviness, the music remains danceable, even featuring a decidedly club-oriented track (see “Dantes Hölle”). Ackermann’s voice continues to send shivers down the spine and is powerfully complemented by Kramm’s heavier, almost operatic vocals.
As for the remixes, they appear primarily as a challenge and an exercise in creative freedom. Das Ich could have taken the easy route and invited other Gothic or Dark-Wave bands, but instead deliberately opted for stylistic contrast. Collaborations with acts such as Frozen Plasma, Kontrast, Mildreda, System Noire, Untersicht, Xotox, ao result in original reinterpretations infused with Dark-Electro, Future-Pop, and Industrial influences. The release also includes two alternative versions by Das Ich themselves.
Das Ich have been back on stage for some time now, but with “Fanal” they also return with a truly impressive album. The band sounds as if they never left, clearly demonstrating that they still have much to offer the Gothic scene. A new masterpiece. (Rating:9).
Listen to “Vanitas”:
https://das-ich.bandcamp.com/track/vanitas
I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
Since you’re here …
… we have a small favour to ask. More people are reading Side-Line Magazine than ever but advertising revenues across the media are falling fast. Unlike many news organisations, we haven’t put up a paywall – we want to keep our journalism as open as we can - and we refuse to add annoying advertising. So you can see why we need to ask for your help.
Side-Line’s independent journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. But we do it because we want to push the artists we like and who are equally fighting to survive.
If everyone who reads our reporting, who likes it, helps fund it, our future would be much more secure. For as little as 5 US$, you can support Side-Line Magazine – and it only takes a minute. Thank you.
The donations are safely powered by Paypal.
