Krautrock Album Database

Albums

Weltschmerz 1975

Weltschmerz (Private 1975)

Album Legnth: 37.30

Recorded: April/May 1975 Zuckerfabrik Studio - Stuttgart, Germany

Genre: Progressive/Art

Best Song: 'Times Of Delight'

Release Info: 1997 CD Reissue GOD CD013

Tracks:

1. Looking In The Past 6.11
2. Tanz Im Schnee 5.13
3. Times Of Delight 7.09
4. Weit Weg 12.18
5. Gift Of The Fool 6.39

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Overview:

It is hard to believe that a group of five apparent nobodies in their early twenties is responsible for one of the best German progressive rock albums. Siddhartha's sound is a pretentious mixture of progressive rock and art rock, blending together elements of psych, folk, classical as well as Floydian Saucerful-organ and choir sections. Weltschmerz contains five excellent tracks showcasing nice musical performances and arrangements. The album opens with 'Looking In The Past' which contains a Renate Knaup-esque female lead vocal and numerous classical touches. 'Tanz Im Schnee', an up-beat instrumental with pompous guitar playing contains jazz and classical themes. The standout track, 'Times Of Delight' hints heavily towards the Saucerful-era Floyd sound, but is nicely by some fantastic dueling guitar work and atmospheric electric violin. Sung in German, 'Weit Weg' introduces flute and tuba into the mix and plays like an unholy marriage of folk, art rock and classical and at times carnival music. Closing the album is the atmospheric number 'Gift Of The Fool' which is dominated by a steady alternating bass line, a brooding organ, and piercing violin before ending in dramatic fashion. Siddhartha is a one album wonder which never got the chance to record again. [5/5 Doug]

Musicians:

Martin Morike - Organ, Piano, Vocals
Klaus Hermann - Drums
Gerhard Kraus - Violin, Vocals
Eberhard Muller - Guitar
Klaus Scharff - Bass
Gabi Rossmanith - Vocals (track 1)
Iris Rothermel - Flute
Lothar Mattlinger - Tuba (track 4)