Unantastbar: A Journey of Controversies, Challenges, and Musical Triumph

Unantastbar, a German music band formed in 1993, has left an unforgettable mark on the world of rock and heavy metal. Their signature sound, characterized by powerful guitar riffs, pounding drums, and emotionally charged lyrics, has resonated with legions of fans. However, their journey has not been without its share of challenges and controversies.

Early Beginnings and Controversies:

Unantastbar's humble beginnings can be traced back to the small town of Oberhausen, Germany, where three friends, Andreas "Andi" Dorau, Stefan "Tino" Dobrovolny, and Jan-Robert "Jaro" Meurer, shared a passion for music. The band's early lyrics, often laced with provocation and social commentary, drew criticism from certain quarters. Their song "Der Riese" ("The Giant") sparked outrage due to its alleged links to right-wing extremism. Unantastbar faced intense scrutiny and accusations of harboring neo-Nazi sympathies.

Artistic Evolution and Acclaim:

Despite these controversies, Unantastbar remained steadfast in their musical aspirations. Their music evolved towards a more introspective and personal style, delving into themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Albums such as "Herzblut" (1999) and "Unantastbar" (2004) showcased their artistic maturity and earned critical acclaim. Their emotional anthem "Abschied" ("Farewell"), released in 2002, became an instant classic, touching countless hearts with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody.

Mainstream Success and Challenges:

By the mid-2000s, Unantastbar had established themselves as a major force in German rock music. Their album "Alles auf Rausch" (2005) topped the German charts and garnered them a wider audience beyond their hardcore fan base. However, success brought its own challenges. The band faced pressure to conform to industry expectations, leading to creative tensions.

Lineup Changes and Departure of Andi Dorau:

In 2010, the band underwent a major lineup change. Andi Dorau, the lead singer and primary songwriter, parted ways with Unantastbar after a long period of creative differences. His departure marked a significant shift for the band, as Dorau's distinctive voice and lyrics had been integral to their identity.

Renewal and Rejuvenation:

Despite the loss of Dorau, Unantastbar persevered. They recruited new vocalists, including Marco Heubaum and Sascha Gerstner, and embarked on a new chapter in their musical journey. Albums such as "Wiedersehen" (2014) and "Best Of 25 Years: Live" (2018) demonstrated that the band's creative spirit remained alive and well.

Discography:

- Herzblut (1999)
- Unantastbar (2004)
- Alles auf Rausch (2005)
- Zwischenspiel - live (2006)
- 15 Jahre - live (2010)
- Wiedersehen (2014)
- Best Of 25 Years: Live (2018)

Members:

Current Members:
- Stefan "Tino" Dobrovolny (guitar)
- Jan-Robert "Jaro" Meurer (drums)
- Marco Heubaum (vocals)
- Sascha Gerstner (vocals, guitar)

Former Members:
- Andreas "Andi" Dorau (vocals)
- Christoph "Chris" Emmo (bass)
- Frank "Frank" Seitz (bass)