Sunday, April 6, 2025

Chris Braun Band - Both Sides (1972 germany, krautrock little gem with soulful female vocals)



The Chris Braun Band, originally formed in Dortmund in 1970 as a rebranding of The Faces, showcased a dynamic blend of blues rock and progressive styles, drawing early comparisons to bands like Frumpy.

Led by Joachim Bernstein, the group initially gained recognition for their energetic live performances across dance schools and clubs throughout Germany. In 1970, vocalist Chris Braun joined the band, prompting a shift in their sound with the addition of Elmar Krohn on flute. The band’s achievements included a notable finish at the German Beat Festival in Recklinghausen. Despite limited commercial success, their recordings, including the acclaimed album ‘Both Sides’ (1972) on BASF, received critical praise for its musical depth and Braun’s distinctive vocal style. Over the years, the band underwent several lineup changes and stylistic shifts, contributing to the evolving landscape of German rock music until their dissolution around 1984.

The Chris Braun Band debut album ‘Both Sides’ won the German Record Award for Best New Artist in its release year. The award ceremony took place at the Mozarteum in Salzburg. On that occasion, the Chris Braun Band also performed there. Looking back, that was certainly one of the most spectacular moments in the band’s history for the Chris Braun Band.
by Klemen Breznikar
Tracks
1. Town Of Children`s Blocks - 5:00
2. Comfort Me In Hell - 2:13
3. Untrue World - 2:14
4. Magical Light - 2:54
5. Anxiety - 7:03
6. Paul - 4:19
7. Icy Shapes - 6:18
8. Things For You And Me - 5:15
9. April Fool - 0:11
Words and Music by Chris Braun

The Band
*Chris Braun - Lead Vocals
*Elmar Krohn - Electric, Acoustic Guitar, Flute, Percussion, Vocals
*Horst Schreiber - Electric, Acoustic Guitar, Percussion, Vocals
*Jochen Bernstein - Bass
*Bill Bakine - Drums, Percussion