The band KEIM-X-ZELLE has been on the road for some time now, aiming to fill the niche of leftist rap and leftist hip hop music.
This style was previously somewhat successfully represented by Bruder & Kronstädter as almost the only well-known band in the field. However, they were never commercially successful, only known in the scene.
In recent years, this style has been revitalized, among others, by Swiss & Die Anderen. It has become somewhat more mainstream-friendly thanks to Antilopengang and SDP.
Now, KEIM-X-ZELLE wants to be included in this illustrious circle.
The label Aggressive Punkproduktionen, which has made a name for itself through releases from established punk bands, is trying to broaden its perspective here.
First, I would like to correct the style of KEIM-X-ZELLE. This is not what many people imagine when they think of rap or hip hop, unless I focus on the commercial bands. What KEIM-X-ZELLE does is more powerful pop-punk with spoken word. The lyrics are clearly politically left. KEIM-X-ZELLE does not hold back in their statements.
Fuck racists, Nazi scum... this leaves no room for discussion.
Alongside political lyrics, the trio also speaks about everyday life, the development of the world, and the evolution of humanity. They ask questions, they point out the wounds, and they have lyrically articulated this quite well.
However... their music is not as aggressive as the promotional material would have one believe or as the band might see themselves. At least not from the CD.
The 13 songs can almost continuously be played on the radio. This may indeed be a good thing, as it allows reaching more people.
On the other hand, when I want to listen to such music, I tend to reach for Swiss & Die Anderen.
