Stern-Combo Meissen

Album Overview

"Weisses Gold" is a symphonic progressive rock concept album by Stern-Combo Meißen, released in 1978 on the AMIGA label. The album's title translates to "White Gold," referencing the historical invention of hard-paste porcelain by 18th-century Saxon alchemist Johann Friedrich Böttger. The narrative unfolds in the city of Meissen, where Böttger's discovery took place.

Thematic and Musical Composition

The album consists of eight interconnected movements. Each movement contributes to the overarching story of Böttger's life and his quest to create porcelain. Notably, the piece "Der Goldmacher" incorporates musical elements inspired by baroque composer Johann Kuhnau's biblical sonatas. This blending of classical influences with rock elements is characteristic of the band’s style.

Collaboration and Performance

Stern-Combo Meißen collaborated with the Symphony Orchestra of the Hanns Eisler Music Academy Berlin for this release. Conducted by Horst Förster, the orchestra adds a rich layer of sound to the rock instrumentation. The Choir of the Wachregiment Feliks Dzierzynski also participates, enhancing the album's dramatic narrative. Ernst Kahler provides spoken narration throughout the piece, adding depth to the storytelling.

Band Lineup

The band features Reinhard Fißler on lead vocals, with Thomas Kurzhals playing synthesizers, Mellotron, and piano. Lothar Kramer contributes keyboards and vocals. Norbert Jäger handles percussion and vocals, while Bernd Fiedler plays bass guitar. Werther Lohse is on drums and vocals, with Martin Schreier as the bandleader. This lineup allows for a diverse range of sounds and textures within the album.

Release Details

"Weisses Gold" is categorized under the tags of rock, pop rock, symphonic rock, and classical rock, highlighting its eclectic influences. The album was released in vinyl format as an LP. It is identified by the catalog number 8 55 638. The recording took place in the German Democratic Republic, offering a unique perspective on the progressive rock genre during that era.