Wir Sind Helden












Wir sind Helden (German for "We are heroes") is a German band I 'discovered' about two months ago, and as a result of which I've been frantically downloading tracks via Kazaa. It's difficult to describe their music in terms of pigeon-holeing them, some tracks are similar to early Blondie, some a bit like The Pretenders and a couple which could only be described as German - that's to say they seem to follow a well worn path followed by some bands who don't want to sound English or American. The female lead singer, and guitarist, whose name is Judith Holofernes doesn't have the strongest voice in the world but it suits the material she sings, in the same way that Juliana Hatfield or Beth Orton's voices suit their choice of material.

They've released two albums both of which you can buy via Amazon or play.com, the first, Die Reklamation reached number two in their home country in 2003 and last years follow-up Von Hier An Blind made number one. They haven't really made an impression in the U.K, perhaps Judith will have to appear on Top Of The Pops with hairy armpits, surrounded by 99 Red Balloons to achieve success over here.

I have to say that along with Sildermond (Silver Moon) they have revitalised my interest in German bands after all its been the thick end of thirty years since Kraftwerk, Can or Tangerine Dream produced something to get excited about. So if you are open minded with a liking for some Euro-Pop mixed with Krautrock give them a go.

Whilst we're on the subject of new bands, I must mention the Gonnabees. I found them on the free music download site http://music.download.com. They only really have one song of note, it's called Queen of Pop and its quite clear who its about if you listen to it. I've copied the lyrics which are below, it's worth checking out just to hear the attack on Britney Spears set to a dance beat.

The've only recorded one album which was released in the U.S in 2004. They don't appear to be taking themselves too seriously but they may have been one hit wonders.










You look so pretty in all the magazines
The air brushes perfect if you know what I mean
Your videos are awesome and you sing so good too
At least that's what it sounds like when they process you
Your boyfriend, he's so hot
At least he was last week
You both looked so damn perfect
Until they let you speak
And then all of us find out what we didnt mean to know
That you're really fucking stupid on your real life tv show

You're the queen of pop
And you'll never stop
Doing what you can to get your fans
And stay on top

You're the queen of pop
And you're so damn hot
Everything you do will make the news
So don't get caught

I'm sure you're still a virgin
Cuz the guys you date are gay
And you didn't get no implants
Your tits just grew that way
You're showing off your body
Cuz you're not a girl no more
You get married and divorced
On the same day, how mature

CD sales are dropping
And downloads don't look great
So make another movie
At least we'll get a laugh that way
Girl, you just keep goin'
And no one seems to mind
You don't sing at your shows
So, bitch, hit me one more time

You're the queen of pop
And you'll never stop
Doing what you can to get your fans
And stay on top

You're the queen of pop
And you're so damn hot
Everything you do will make the news
So don't get caught

Someday you'll be a "has been"
With a brother in the news
Who plays with little boys in ways nobody should
But I'm sure you'll be remembered as one of the best
So before you drop your record
Be sure to bare your chest
Back to the slutty school girl
Who acts so innocent
Everytime I turn around
She fucks it up again
So when the lights are on
The camera's zooming inB
e careful who you kiss
We all know where she's been

You're the queen of pop
And you'll never stop
Doing what you can to get your fans
And stay on top
You're the queen of pop
And you're so damn hot
Everything you do will make the news
So don't get caught