Review SONDASCHULE “Wir bleiben wach”

Sondaschule was formed in 1999 and has become one of the most influential German ska punk bands. Sondaschule is the brainchild of founders Marc Böhle and Mirko Klautmann (the latter still being on board), and the debut album was the springboard for the guys, as it created some solid attention, which led to “Schön kaputt” making it to the top 10 of the German longplayer charts. That was in 2015, and after launching three additional studio albums, the band is returning this year with their next release.

“Wir bleiben wach” is the sixth full-length release from Sondaschule and it certainly will continue their winning streak. Unlike some other punk rock bands, Sondaschule takes a less political approach to their lyrics. Their songs are full of wit and humour, and if you listen to “Ich trinke nicht mehr”, you will get a perfect example of their playful approach and clever wordplay. At the same time, the band continues to express the importance of solidarity, togetherness, and open-mindedness. A non-conformist mindset rooted in punk rock echoes through the various songs on this album.

The title track is the ideal opener and provides a great introduction to an entertaining album that puts you in a good mood. “Wir bleiben wach” is a great song that creates a positive atmosphere. This energetic ska-punk song, with its prominent brass element, is a vibrant introduction to the album, showcasing the band’s versatility.

The album continues in a great fashion with “Weit, Weit Weg” and “Auf einen Neuen Tag”, as these songs are like musical caffeine. It’s impossible to stand still while listening to this music.

“Weine nicht featuring Ed Sheeran” takes a different approach. The piano that opens the song is an interesting twist, as is the children’s choir that characterises the chorus.

“Steh auf” is all about stamina and willpower, and is basically about standing up after life hits you in the face. With the light-hearted “Happy Birthday zum Geburtstag”, the band adds another dimension to the album, and could hardly congratulate someone in a better way.

The calm and touching song “Du bist so gut” is a musical middle finger to self-optimisation and excessive self-presentation. None of that matters though, because you are OK the way you are, and you should stay true to yourself.

With “Wir bleiben wach”, Sondaschule launch a versatile ska punk album that showcases a variety of musical twists. What connects all the songs is a rebellious mindset and a powerful message of togetherness, freedom, and non-conformity. Although the lyrics are partly humorous, there is often a deeper meaning and ambiguity when you dig a little deeper. “Wir bleiben wach” is an entertaining album. Listening to these songs provides long-lasting entertainment and encourages us to stay awake – for many reasons.