Gurnemanz

Exploring Gurnemanz's "Spielmanns-Kinder"

In 1975, Gurnemanz released their debut album "Spielmanns-Kinder," a private pressing that marked their entry into the German folk-rock scene. This album was distributed in limited quantities and became a notable representation of the folk-rock genre within Germany. The band combines original compositions with traditional folk material, drawing from various European influences, particularly German, Norwegian, and Finnish traditions.

Musical Composition and Influences

The ensemble is led by Manuela Schmitz, who provides lead vocals and contributes to the composition of the album. One standout track is "Annabel Lee," which features music by Schmitz based on Edgar Allan Poe's poem of the same name. The album showcases a rich tapestry of acoustic instrumentation, featuring instruments such as the lute, sitar, flute, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and percussion. This diverse arrangement contributes to the album's unique sound, which is often compared to the works of contemporaries like Ougenwiede and Bröselmaschine, as well as British folk acts like Pentangle.

Track Highlights

"Spielmanns-Kinder" includes a mix of German and English-language songs. Among them are traditional folk songs like "Ein Schoner Bremberger" and "Der Eifersüchtige Knabe." The album also features original tracks such as "Don't Ask" and "Left Behind." In addition, traditional Nordic dance suites like "Zwei Norwegische Tänze" and "Zwei Finnische Tänze" are included, expanding the album's cultural reach. Gurnemanz’s ability to blend different folk traditions creates a rich auditory experience that reflects the diversity of European folk music.

Pressing and Reissues

The album was initially self-released as a limited private pressing, making it a rare find for collectors. It later saw a reissue on CD in 1999 and a 180g vinyl version released by Missing Vinyl in 2012. These reissues have allowed a broader audience to access the music of Gurnemanz and appreciate their contributions to the folk-rock genre.

Gurnemanz's "Spielmanns-Kinder" features a lineup that includes acoustic instruments such as the lute, sitar, flute, mandolin, and acoustic guitar.