Recommendations of the Editorial team
You might think it would be a bad year for German bands if neither Element Of Crime nor Kettcar nor Thees Uhlmann played at ROLLING STONE Beach – but far from it! This time it’s particularly worth leaving the big tent, even if it’s always difficult for me because the euphoria of the audience there is often so rousing.
But it would be laughable if my two “secret” tips didn’t do the same thing. Basically, at different ends of the spectrum, they prove how vibrant and diverse so-called indie rock still is in 2025 – even if the word almost sounds old-fashioned today. Not Seattle is the name of the project by Berliner Katharina Kollmann, who as a songwriter, singer and guitarist has been showing what is possible when it comes to stubborn melodies and clever lyrics since “Kommistenlibido” (2022).
She takes a close look at the world, but also at her own problems – and instead of sinking into self-pity, she prefers to take it with humor. Her everyday observations are as merciless as they are original; The current album “Haus” (2024) isn’t exactly homey either.
The Truffauts finally at ROLLING STONE Beach
The Truffauts are also familiar with Schrammel guitars – since the late 80s. After all these years and many well-deserved four-star reviews, the people of Nuremberg are finally coming to Weissenhäuser Strand. A long journey for the founding members singer/bassist Jean-Jacques Boucher and guitarist/vocalist Ronald Chateauroux and their two newer colleagues, guitarist Olivier Durange and drummer Monsieur Accèle, a joy for us.
Whether they sing in English or French, their charming rock music is always characterized by an astonishing dynamic and a wealth of references that amaze you. Their latest album “Refrain” oscillates wonderfully between irresistible pop and bitchier garage sounds. There is a lot to discover here!
Non-Seattle perform on festival Saturday and The Truffauts perform on festival Sunday. You can find more information about ROLLING STONE Beach here.