German music giant brings its best hits to the Baltics

RIGA - Since its very beginning, music has served as a tool for communication. No wonder it is fairly described as a language which is understood by everybody, no matter which language music actually is in. It is just as emotional, tragic, thrilling or entertaining. This time Lithuania and Latvia are offered a great chance to enjoy the music performed by probably one of the most famous German bands, Rammstein, when they visit the two Baltic countries to showcase their new tour program “Made in Germany 1995 – 2011,” on Feb. 6 and 7, respectively.

Formed in 1994 in Berlin, the band has arguably become one of the most visible players who have conquered the stages in both their native Germany and outside. Rammstein, which is composed of the lead singer Till Lindemann, drummer Christoph ‘Doom’ Schneider, guitarists Richard Kruspe and Paul Landers, bass guitarist Oliver ‘Ollie’ Reidel and keyboardist Christian ‘Flake’ Lorenz, represent their industrial metal, and their rock songs have captured many hearts of the listeners around the world, despite their repertoire being mostly in German. The band never goes the easiest route, proving their music is a combination of a story that is included in the song, a melodic approach and video which usually tends to balance on the line of shock and controversy. Rammstein’s tunes like “Engel,” “Mutter,” “Du hast” or “Ohne dich” all embody a dose of madness and misunderstanding, yet they also convey the message that speaks about the secret desires or experiences that some people always carry with them.

One of the key factors of Rammstein’s success is obviously the show. Their goal, to surprise, works perfectly, and the band does not hesitate to go crazy on the stage, turning it into a burning spectacle. The show, which demonstrates 16 years of their successful run, has already intrigued the audience by bringing sold out concerts to Hungary, the Czech Republic and Poland. The promise to make the show unforgettable apparently pays off, and their spectacle is a rebirth in thunder.

It seems that the band never stops. After the performances in Australia, South Africa, North America and Mexico, for which they were awarded Best Live Band at the Revolver Golden Gods Awards, it could have been expected that Rammstein would take a break and sum up their massive experience. However, they announced a new tour, “Made in Germany 1995 – 2011,” instead indicating they have enough energy to perform a bit more. Seemingly this energy is what makes Rammstein who they are. The band’s power is almost limitless, and their effort to create a magnificent spectacle which breaks the rules of what can be done on stage appears to be measureless. Their image of being harshly direct, shameless and ironic has let their music look the same. And that attracts, indeed. The numbers confirm it, noting that the previous concert in Riga in 2010 gathered 11,000 visitors, making it one of the most outstanding concerts that has ever been witnessed at this arena.

Still, it must be understood that Rammstein are hardly appropriate for the general audience. There is no place for weak nerves and prejudiced perception at their concerts as they overstep the borders without any regret. Thus, those who prefer traditional popular music are advised to choose another event to attend. Nonetheless, Rammstein are something unique in music, and their story cannot be compared – the major part of the band’s success is driven by music. In most cases it makes you wonder how a simple composition can sound so addictive, demanding to be replayed again and again. Their strong point is probably the voice of the lead singer, whose low pitched tone adds a priceless value to the songs, letting Rammstein’s style be unstoppable everywhere they go.

Feb. 6 and 7 are going to be a loud nights in Kaunas and Riga, offering one of the most enigmatic bands of Europe on its menu. The opinions from those who have already seen the concert are similar, and they all outline Rammstein’s ability to rule the crowd as if their music owned something strangely magical. Well, for their fans, the situation has never been different.

Ticket information can be found on www.bilesuserviss.lv and www.bilietupasaulis.lt.