Samsas Traum

Lore & Background

Samsas Traum started in 1996 when Alexander Kaschte released his first solo tape. Three years later the solo project became a group of three, and their official debut Die Liebe Gottes – Eine märchenhafte Black Metal Operette divided the scene. Some people said that ST was the best newcomer of the year, other people rather started to hate them, at least also because of some provocative statements by Alexander Kaschte. The follow-up appeared in 2000 with Oh Luna mein, a musically matured and varied album of more polished arrangements, balanced instrumentation and choir-parts. In this time Alexander went on to create his darker alter-ego Weena Morloch, which was more noise music based, and included samples from horror movies.

Reader's Guide

Samsas Traum's significance lies in their genre-blending approach and the controversy they generated. Their debut divided the scene, with some hailing them as best newcomer and others reacting negatively due to Kaschte's provocative statements. The band's discography shows a progression from black metal operetta to industrial and classical arrangements, with two 2007 albums—Heiliges Herz – Das Schwert Deiner Sonne, a black metal epos, and Wenn schwarzer Regen, an acoustic personal work—demonstrating their range. The limited edition of Heiliges Herz featured a special book format with linen binding, silver foil embossing, and a bonus CD with remixes by acts like In Strict Confidence and Wumpscut. Their legacy includes a series of albums, EPs, singles, and cover versions of songs by The Sisters of Mercy, Die Toten Hosen, and others.

Did You Know?

• The band's name comes from Gregor Samsa in Kafka's The Metamorphosis.
• Their debut album divided the scene, with some calling them best newcomer and others hating them.
• Alexander Kaschte created a darker alter-ego called Weena Morloch.
• The limited first edition of Heiliges Herz came in a book format with linen binding and a bonus CD.