Rammstein Interview

Rammstein has been back in the news lately, particularly for their decision to shoot an explicit video to accompany the first single off the new album Liebe Ist Für Alle Da (love is for everyone). The album has been banned from public display in German stores because of the artwork and lyrical content. About.com spoke with guitarist Paul Landers about whether the video was a publicity stunt or an artistic statement; the difference between European and American audiences and if Rammstein can ever live up to the mainstream success of the hit single "Du Hast."

Justin M. Norton: How do you feel about the reception of the new album? It's been a few years since you've come out with new material.
Paul Landers: The feedback has been great. It's our sixth record and something we can be really proud of.

What was the band's mindset when you wrote this album? Was it written in the studio or was the material finished?
The writing process began after a one-year break. The plans were to go on a small tour and then go to the studio or to bring out a best-of record and tour on that. None of those ideas panned out. We ended up deciding to make a record without any touring in advance. It took a while for things to gel, but it wasn't long before things got intense. It was a long, arduous process, but also really pleasant.

It was interesting the way the band jammed on ideas. Instead of taking huge amps and monster drums, we took small amps and an electric drum kit. It allowed us to work on ideas and whole new range of sound that otherwise wouldn't have been possible recording at our normal volume.

Read the complete Rammstein Interview

(photo courtesy Vagrant Records)