Ever since Rammstein broke onto the music scene some time ago, there have been a fair number of bands who have decided to go the electro-rock route.  However, none have tried copying the band on many levels…until now.  Stahlmann is an electro-rock band that practically uses the Rammstein formula, note for note, right down to the singing in German, minus the rolling of the R’s.  Their latest album Quecksilber does nothing to quiet those comparisons.

Due to their style of music, one would expect Stahlmann to have some catchy music that you can dance to, and on Quecksilber, it provides just that.  However, throughout the album, one gets the feeling that the music and vocals sound familiar…too familiar.  The obvious Rammstein comparisons aside, it seems as though Stahlmann borrows from the likes of Allerseelen and to a lesser extent, Saltatio Mortis.  The mechanical nature in which songs such as “Tanzmaschine” and “Am Grunde” are played on the album only serve to work against Stahlmann, as originality is obviously the weakest aspect.  In terms of actual music ability, Stahlmann does have some ability, as evidenced by songs such as “Engel Der Dunkelheit” and “Asche.”  However, it does very little to help Stahlmann stand out.  The album includes a Club Remix of “Tanzmaschine,” which is good for a curiosity listen and not much else.

Stahlmann is certainly an interesting band, if only for the fact that they wear their influences on their sleeve.  Unfortunately, it shows too often, and Quecksilber is a victim of the “lack of original ideas” disease.  While the album would be at home at a disco (if one still exists) or even those who seek a change of pace, you’re likely better off listening to Rammstein, since they play this sound just a little better than Stahlmann.

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*Comments:

1.  Engel Der Dunkelheit
2.  Spring Nicht
3.  Tanzmaschine
4.  Asche
5.  Mein Leib
6.  Am Grunde
7.  Götter
8.  Schmerz
9.  Diener
10.  Tanzmaschiene (Club Remix)

Total playing time:  42:08

Release Date: March 13, 2012
Label: AFM Records

Stahlmann - Quecksilber

Reviewer: Peter

May 24, 2012