First Glances – the Wide
‘Dead Guitars live at Messajero*’ had become something of a Christmas tradition for me. (*charming Mönchengladbach venue) Last December I was again witness to yet another sell-out ‘hometown’ concert for the Deadies. Sadly 2017 may be the last for some while. After much soul searching the various members of Dead Guitars have decided to put the project on indefinite hiatus. From what I gather it is a mutual decision with no acrimony whatsoever. The final gig came after the decision and was as brilliant as ever albeit bittersweet for obvious reasons.
Every cloud has a silver lining though as guitarist Peter Brough told me that he would continue to perform with Ralf Aussem in new band the Wide. Aussem and Brough are the two Mönchengladbach based Dead Guitarists having previously been with 12 Drummers Drumming. It is understood that Brough will undertake lead singer duties in the Wide. Joining the Aussem/Brough axis are regular bassist and drummer respectively Kurt Schmidt and Hermann Eugster. A hell of a line up, honestly. Take it from me these are four truly excellent musicians so I am eager to see what the Wide can deliver.
Extract here from their own bio:
Moved and inspired, as always, by a genuine and abiding passion for real, honest and truly heartfelt, handcrafted music, four established musicians, late of a common 28-year involvement in such major projects as Dead Guitars, 12 Drummers Drumming and yet others, founded the Wide.
The line-up: Pete Brough (Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitars), Ralf Aussem (Electric Guitars – and a broad repertoire of amazing sounds), Kurt Schmidt (Bass and backing vocals), Hermann Eugster (Drums and backing vocals).
During the last 6 months of 2017, they wrote, recorded and produced an exuberant rush of new songs – and true to their abilities and principles, this was done in a discerningly natural, live and authentic style that lets the listener share in what The Wide felt when writing and recording these songs. Now they are ready to perform them live.
Their music is authentic, meaningful and energetic Indie-Rock/Pop Music spiced with the occasional expressive ballad, danceable tune and atmospheric song.
The watchword is: real music for real people!
An album Paramount is slated for release later in October.