Album Review: Heute Zwischen Gestern Und Morgen by Ernst Busch – A Folk-Pop Journey Through Time
If you're into music that feels like a history lesson wrapped in soulful melodies, then Heute Zwischen Gestern Und Morgen (1983) is your jam. This album, released in the German Democratic Republic (GDR), is a treasure chest of folk, world, and pop vibes with political undertones. Ernst Busch, the legendary solo vocalist and narrator, brings it all together with his gravelly yet heartfelt voice. The record dives deep into themes of war, revolution, and human resilience, but don’t let that scare you off—it’s surprisingly moving.
Let’s talk tracks. One standout for me is "März 1918 - November 1918." It’s got this haunting ballad quality that just sticks with you. You can almost picture the trenches and hear the echoes of soldiers’ voices. The lyrics are raw, and Busch’s delivery makes it feel personal, like he’s sitting across from you sharing stories over a cup of coffee. It’s not flashy or polished, but that’s what makes it so real. Plus, Hanns Eisler's composition adds this cinematic layer that pulls you right into the moment.
Another track I can’t stop thinking about is "Die Weinenden Hohenzollern." Man, this one hits different. It’s got sharp wit and biting commentary—courtesy of Kurt Tucholsky’s text—that feels oddly relevant even today. There’s something about the way Busch narrates it; it’s part storytelling, part protest chant. By the end, you’re left wondering how something so specific to its time still resonates decades later. Hats off to Rolf Lukowsky and Wolfgang Hohensee for adapting these pieces so well—they didn’t mess with the original spirit but gave them a fresh coat of paint.
The production values might not blow modern listeners away, but hey, that’s part of the charm. Bernd Runge did an excellent job as both music director and sound designer, keeping things grounded while letting the emotional weight of each song shine through. And props to Irene Busch (Ernst’s consultant) and Winfried Turnhofer for nailing the layout and visuals—it’s simple, clean, and matches the tone perfectly.
What really struck me about this album is how unapologetically political it is. These aren’t just songs; they’re statements. They remind us of where we’ve been and maybe warn us about where we could go if we’re not careful. But more than anything, they celebrate humanity—the struggles, the hopes, the little victories.
Here’s the kicker: listening to Heute Zwischen Gestern Und Morgen made me realize how rare it is to find music that challenges you without preaching at you. It’s like having a conversation with someone who’s lived a thousand lives. If you’re looking for easy-listening background music, this ain’t it. But if you want something that’ll make you think, feel, and maybe even cry a little, give it a shot.
Oh, and here’s a random thought: isn’t it wild how a record from 1983 can feel like it was made yesterday? Guess some truths never really age.
