Jezriel: When was Das Ich formed and why?

Das Ich:When we formed Das Ich in 1989 we decided to start with a new kind of genre, because electronic music had not entered into symphonic concepts so far. We also wanted to improvise with the german language. I think we initiated these days together with Einstürzende Neubauten the new kind of use of the german language.

Jezriel: The name of the band brings mystery. I have heard it described in numerous bios as meaning "The Ego"--what deep meanings lie behind this name and why did you choose it?

Das Ich: "The Ego" is a term from Freud's psycho-analysis and the good thing about the name is, that this name is not fixed to a certain style, if we would like to do one day freejazz, the name would still work out.

Jezriel: Das Ich's music and lyrical content sets it apart from most "industrial/electronic" bands -definitely more conceptual and artistic...Is there a message or philosophy that you are trying to convey to audiences?

Das Ich: No, we hate acting like a prophet or messiah - We have some private motives about concepts but we do not tell them to the people. If you are smart you can find our message hidden in some of our music.

Jezriel: Stefan has used many writings of Gottfried Benn for lyrics --can you tell me some more about this writer and why he is significant?

Das Ich: When we started, we were searching for a lyrical concept and style which should fit to our music - so our basic school in writing lyrics was always the expressionistic decade. And Benn is one of its most intriguing and fascinating writers.

Jezriel: What inspires you to create music?

Das Ich: We are fascinated by the whole world we live in. Sometimes movies, sometimes nature. The more dark songs are often inspired by our own depression.

Jezriel: You've just completed the Totentanz tour with In Strict Confidence --how was it overall?

Das Ich: We loved the tour...It seemed that after each tour in the states it works out better concerning turnout and organisation. We hope to come next year again.

Jezriel: How does the American scene differ to that of Germany and what are your impressions of it?

Das Ich: The American scene is more into enjoying their lives and partying. In Europe a lot of our public is more this kind of depressive gothkids. The US scene is mixed up from electro to industrial and goth people, we appreciate the fact that your scene is more mixed.

Jezriel: What are the latest projects you are working on, and what can we expect from Das Ich in the future?

Das Ich: A new album and a solo project from me. But there is still so much studiowork to do with other bands.

Jezriel: Will you be back in the states anytime soon?

Das Ich: In February, I will be in Chicago to set up some distribution channels and to visit a great love.

Jezriel: If you could sum up your last words in one sentence, what would it be?

Das Ich: Stop the National Rifle Association and make life more comfortable for everyone.

                     Das Ich
                     Bruno, Daniel, Stefan, Dominik