The Notwist's "News from Planet Zombie": A Return to Collective Creation

The Notwist, a German band known for their eclectic sound, has released their tenth studio album, "News from Planet Zombie." This album marks a significant shift in their creative process, emphasizing physical collaboration over digital isolation, a change largely influenced by the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Guardian

Formed nearly 25 years ago, The Notwist has undergone numerous transformations, evolving from grunge and indie rock to incorporate elements of electronica, trip-hop, krautrock, and jazz. Their previous album, "Vertigo Days" (2021), featured a collaborative approach, but "Planet Zombie" deepens this communal experience by returning to in-person recording sessions.

The Guardian

The band’s core members, Markus and Micha Acher, have remained constant throughout its history. For "Planet Zombie," they recorded in a former industrial building in Munich, now a nonprofit arts space, where they played together in one room for the first time in years. This setting fostered a collaborative atmosphere, inviting various artists to contribute, including clarinettist Tianping Christoph Xiao and jazz musician Mathias Götz.

The Guardian

"Planet Zombie" is not just an album; it represents a response to the isolation experienced during the pandemic. The decision to record collectively was described by Markus Acher as an “emotional decision” aimed at reclaiming the shared experiences lost during lockdown. The album's sound is characterized as warmer and rougher, emphasizing presence and tactile qualities, which contrasts with the digital mediation prevalent in recent years.

The Guardian

While The Notwist has not traditionally engaged in overt political commentary, "Planet Zombie" carries a subtle political charge. The album's title and themes suggest a critique of isolation and a rejection of the disembodied logic that the pandemic exacerbated. Acher notes that the lyrics reflect ongoing concerns about alienation and dislocation, leaving interpretations open-ended rather than providing clear messages.

The Guardian

Markus Acher stated, “During Covid, we were sitting in this room, working on whatever we had... that didn’t feel right any more.” He emphasized the importance of physical presence in music creation, suggesting that the album serves as a reminder of the necessity of human connection.

The Guardian

• “Suddenly we were already done.” — Micha Acher, Band Member

The Guardian

• “Even when it feels like the world is collapsing,” he says, “life continues.” — Markus Acher, Band Member

The Guardian

• “We felt the need to come together and not separate ourselves.” — Markus Acher, Band Member

The Guardian

As The Notwist continues to explore their sound and collaborative methods, "Planet Zombie" sets the stage for future projects that may further investigate themes of connection and community in a post-pandemic world. The band’s commitment to physical collaboration may influence their upcoming work, fostering a renewed emphasis on shared artistic experiences.

The Guardian