If you’re into rock and punk then you should look no further than one of Germany’s popular and current bands, Feine Sahne Fischfilet. These days, rock and punk are (sadly) not at the top of the charts, no matter where you look in the world. But Feine Sahne Fischfilet’s punk and ska sound is cool, fun and modern. So this month, let’s get our pulses racing, our fists pumping in the air and learn German with the music of Feine Sahne Fischfilet.
Get to Know Feine Sahne Fischfilet
Feine Sahne Fischfilet was founded in 2007 by a group of six teenagers from the northeastern German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The location was part of former East Germany. The band is singer Monchi, guitar player Christoph Sell, trumpeters Jacobus North and Max Bobzin, bass player Kai Irrgang, and drummer Olaf Ney.
Today the group, like many in the scene, are outspoken against racism, sexism, homophobia, and fascism. But the group had a bit of a rocky start early in their career with some questionable lyrics that were highlighted by the German press. But the group have learned from their mistakes and today are vocal against hate in all forms.
The Music of Feine Sahne Fischfilet
Although Feine Sahne Fischfilet has only been around for a little over a decade, the group have been very prolific. The band has released five full-length studio albums starting with 2009’s Backstage mit Freunden. Their most recent release is 2018’s Sturm & Dreck, which went to number three in the German music charts and a respectable twelve in neighboring Austria. The prior album, 2015’s Bleiben oder Gehen, gave them their break into the German charts at number 21.
But it was the single “Komplett im Arsch” from their third album, 2012’s Scheitern & Verstehen, that helped get the band attention thanks to a popular video on YouTube. With its raw sound and a catchy chorus perfect for sing-alongs, it’s no surprise the song caught the attention of punk and rock fans.
With two trumpet players in the mix, Feine Sahne Fischfilet definitely has leanings towards ska. But the band find that sweet spot with their the punk-ska influences to create something memorable, energetic and balanced. And like any self-respecting punk band, their music is perfect for singing along. There might be a little rowdiness, too. Just a bit.
If you don’t live in the German-speaking world, fear not. Curious fans can stream their music outside of Germany. But if you do happen to be in Europe, keep your eyes peeled. The band are frequently on tour and you can see them live and in person. Maybe you’ll even venture into the pit.
Looking for another Ohrwurm to help you learn German? Check out previously featured musicians and bands!
Photo by Andreas Hornoff and used courtesy Audiolith Booking. This post contains affiliate links.