Album Review: Live Fliegende Bauten by Gisbert Zu Knyphausen – A Pop-Rock Gem That Still Glows
Let’s cut to the chase: Live Fliegende Bauten is one of those albums that sneaks up on you like an uninvited but totally welcome party guest. Released in 2009, this live recording from German indie rock maestro Gisbert Zu Knyphausen feels less like a concert and more like hanging out with your coolest friend who just happens to have killer taste in music. Backed by genres like pop, rock, and styles ranging from power pop to pop rock (try saying that three times fast), it's got enough energy to keep your toes tapping and your brain humming for days.
The album was released via [PIAS], Omaha Records, and Rolling Stone—a trifecta of cool if there ever was one—and features some solid credits. Tina Polster nailed the artwork, Chris v. Rautenkranz mastered it into crisp perfection, and NDR 90,3 made sure the recording didn’t sound like someone yelling into a tin can. Oh, and let’s not forget Jens Fricke shredding on guitar while Gisbert himself handled vocals, songwriting, AND composing duties. Talk about wearing multiple hats—or maybe just being really good at multitasking.
Now, onto the tracks. With ten songs packed into this sucker, I could ramble about all of them, but two stood out so much they practically tattooed themselves onto my brain: “Hurra! Hurra! So Nicht.” and “Sommertag.”
First off, “Hurra! Hurra! So Nicht.”—what a banger. The title alone screams sarcastic celebration, which sets the tone perfectly. It’s punchy, upbeat, and has this irresistible hook that makes you wanna grab a beer (or five) and shout along even if you don’t speak German. There’s something gloriously chaotic about how Gisbert delivers his lines—it’s like he’s simultaneously celebrating life and rolling his eyes at it. By the time the chorus kicks in, you’re either dancing awkwardly or questioning all your life choices. Either way, it’s a win.
Then there’s “Sommertag,” which hits different because, well, summer days are universally relatable. This track slows things down just enough to give you room to breathe without losing its charm. Gisbert’s voice here is smooth as butter melting on fresh bread, and the melody feels nostalgic in a way that doesn’t hit you over the head with sap. You know those lazy afternoons where nothing happens yet everything feels magical? Yeah, this song captures that vibe flawlessly. Bonus points for making me miss sunshine during a gloomy Tuesday afternoon.
What strikes me most about Live Fliegende Bauten isn’t just the music itself—it’s the vibe. Listening to it feels intimate, almost like you’ve stumbled upon a secret gig no one else knows about. And honestly, isn’t that what live albums should do? They shouldn’t just replay a show; they should transport you there, warts and all.
So here’s the kicker: If aliens ever invade Earth and demand we hand over our finest musical exports, I’d toss them this album alongside Bowie and Beyoncé. Sure, it might confuse them since it’s in German, but hey, great art transcends language barriers, right? Or maybe they’ll just blast us anyway. Who knows with aliens?
In short: Live Fliegende Bauten isn’t perfect—but then again, neither is life. And sometimes, imperfection is exactly what makes something unforgettable.
