Sehnsucht

1997 album from the controversial German shock rock act,featuring the hit European singles 'Du Hast' and 'Engel'.11 tracks total. A Motor label release. 'Sehnsucht' means'Longing' in English. 'Rammstein' translates into 'BatteringRam' in English.

There's not a big precedent for German bands succeeding in theUnited States, the '80s bombast-rock of the Scorpions notwithstanding. Rammstein, however, may be the macho men to get the job done, at least in a concert setting. Decidedly Teutonic and militant in sound and lyrics--they sing in German and their commanding semi-industrial metal is compelling--Rammstein garnered rock-radio airplay for the catchy sing-along "Du Hast," which translates here as "You Have" and bears a striking musical resemblance to the Golden Earring tune "Twilight Zone." While Sehnsucht's 11 songs are solid, it's the live shows where everything gels. There, KISS pyrotechnics and disturbing NIN-like images, for example, complement Rammstein's forceful music. Without the visual stimuli, Sehnsucht (which means "longing") is still a strong effort, but live is where the album's Germanic gems really shine. --Katherine Turman