Grobschnitt: Detailed Information

Formation and Country

Grobschnitt was a German progressive rock band formed in 1970 in Hagen, Germany. The band’s name, which means “rough cut” or “rough draft” in German, reflects their raw and experimental approach to music.

Key Members

• Klaus Doldinger – Saxophone, vocals (early years)
• Lothar Meid – Bass, vocals
• Dieter “Maschine” Roesberg – Drums, percussion
• Wolfgang “Willi” Langer – Keyboards, vocals
• Kurt “Kuddel” Dolezal – Guitar, vocals
• Günter “Günni” Möller – Guitar, vocals

Full Discography

1. Early Albums
   • Grobschnitt (1972)
   • Ballermann (1974)
   • Merry-Go-Round (1975)
2. Classic Period
   • Solar Music Live (1978)
   • Grobschnitt (1979)
   • Live (1981)
3. Later Albums
   • Jumbo (1980)
   • Grobschnitt Live (1981)
   • Sonne (1982)
   • The Grobschnitt Collection (1983)
4. Reunion and Later Work
   • The Grobschnitt Collection (1994)
   • Ballermann – Live (2001)
   • Grobschnitt – 30 Jahre (2003)

History

• Formation and Early Years: Grobschnitt was founded by a group of musicians in Hagen, Germany. They initially focused on creating music that blended rock with elements of progressive, experimental, and symphonic influences.
• Rise to Prominence: The band gained attention in the 1970s with their innovative approach to progressive rock. Their live performances were known for their elaborate stage shows and multimedia presentations.
• Classic Period: Grobschnitt’s live album, Solar Music Live, is considered a landmark in their career, showcasing their improvisational skills and elaborate stage performances. Their music from this period is characterized by its complex arrangements and experimental sound.
• Later Years and Reunion: The band went through several lineup changes and a temporary disbandment in the 1980s. They reunited in the 1990s and continued to perform and release music.

Interesting Details

• Stage Shows: Grobschnitt was known for their elaborate and theatrical live performances, often incorporating visual effects and storytelling elements into their shows.
• Musical Style: Their music combined elements of progressive rock with experimental and symphonic influences, resulting in a unique and dynamic sound.
• Influence: Grobschnitt is considered an influential band in the German progressive rock scene, known for their creativity and innovation.

Musical Themes

• Progressive Rock: The band’s music often featured complex arrangements, extended instrumental sections, and a fusion of rock with other musical styles.
• Concept Albums: Many of their albums, especially their live recordings, were concept albums with thematic and narrative elements.
• Experimentalism: Grobschnitt’s music frequently explored experimental and avant-garde techniques, reflecting their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional rock music.

Grobschnitt’s legacy lies in their ability to blend progressive rock with theatrical performances and experimental music, making them a unique and influential band in the genre.