Initially the Brückentanz-Festival should last 2 days, but unfortunately the day of gothic rock had to be re-scheduled and will now take place in November. And so only the day of Mediaeval music took place and the fans got the chance to see Galahad, Die Irrlichter and Saltatio Mortis.
Galahad was founded back in 1985 by Paul Alexander were the ones to open up this event. Galahad offered a mix of mediaeval sounds and modern rock. Just 3 years ago they got the Deutschen Rock- und Pop-Preis 2007 and they really know how to entertain the fans. They remind me a bit of Jethro Tull which is probably due to Paul Alexander's German flute.... Later they got joined by Martina Aschenbach who also plays the German flute. Vocal duties are shared by Paul Alexander and Tina Schreiber, sometimes more rock like, sometimes more emotional. With their 45-minute-long set Galahad entertained the fans and to me it's no surprise that they already played some shows with Jethro Tull. Unfortunately they are still waiting for a breakthrough, but perhaps it will happen soon....
After a short change over it was time for the local heroes - Die Irrlichter. Usually the band is playing at mediaeval markets, banquetts and festivals, but also act as bards in live RPGs. Brigitta Jaroschek is mainly doing the song writing and lead vocals. She's the only founding member of the now female outfit. Die Irrlichter were in full cry - and entertaining with their comments and instruments. Too soon their show was over, the audience saw a great performance and enjoyed the fantastic atmosphere.
This time the change over took a bit longer, but as soon as the first notes announced Saltatio Mortis the audience went crazy. It's a pity that there weren't more fans attending, but the atmosphere was great. Their 2-hour set was a triumph for the band, like so many times in the recent past. Singer Alea had the audience under control right from the start and the fans were happy to see the band - even without a big production and grand light show. Live Saltatio Mortis a class on their own and so frenetic applause was the reward the band got. No surprise to fans of the band who played countless mediaeval markets where they showed off their live quality. And so the fans sung along every song loudly.
An entertaining show which was over way too soon. A great, sweaty show with a powerful sound.
If you missed them this time, there are many more concerts to come! Mark October 15th in your calendar, coz that night Saltatio Mortis will play in Wuppertal and celebrate their 10th anniversary with their fans.
For the ones of you who speak German, click here and listen to an interview with Falk Irmenfried von Hasenmümmelstein and Samoel. The interview is about 13 min. long.
