Sehnsucht
There's not a big precedent for German bands succeeding in theUnited States, the '80s bombast-rock of theScorpionsnotwithstanding. Rammstein, however, may be the macho men to get the job done, at least in a concert setting. Decidedly Teutonic and militant in sound and lyrics--they sing in German and their commanding semi-industrial metal is compelling--Rammstein garnered rock-radio airplay for the catchy sing-along "Du Hast," which translates here as "You Have" and bears a striking musical resemblance to theGolden Earringtune "Twilight Zone." WhileSehnsucht's 11 songs are solid, it's the live shows where everything gels. There, KISS pyrotechnics and disturbing NIN-like images, for example, complement Rammstein's forceful music. Without the visual stimuli,Sehnsucht(which means "longing") is still a strong effort, but live is where the album's Germanic gems really shine.--Katherine Turman