Formed in 1999, LEBENSxxx is an experimental outfit of three individuals who occupy themselves with industrial electronics, electro-acoustics and visual arts. Igor M, Mamikon V, and Andrei B are certain recluses of the modern Moscow industrial music scene. Their stage-performances are intentionally confined to just one annual report-show, normally at a private facility in front of a small group of friends and invitees. The band produced several self-released albums – small print cassettes and home-made discs. Each new album came out under a new moniker – normally, the band kept the first part of their name unchanged (“lebens”) and altered the second half (“xxx”) according to the album's idea or concept. Sound samples of LEBENSxxx can be found at Bandcamp.
"LEBENSernst" (ein Buch nach dem Leben) (2010) / Pro-duplicated CD-R, Image-book: $44.00
"Like any other music which incorporates unorthodox, unexpected and unpredictable ingredients, our hybrid variety of figures could be classified as 'experimental'. The most important thing is that it pushes our personal creative boundaries when we’re in process of making something. But when the work is done and the release is shaped, we prefer to label it as 'post-experimental'… As far as the current LEBENSERNST project is concerned, we tried to produce a sort of versatile sound-canvas on which anyone could figure his own life story." comment the band-mates. "LEBENSernst (ein Buch nach dem Leben)" was performed and produces by Andras, Garr and Mamikon somewhere in 2009. Audio-disc (11 tracks - 52 min.) comes with a 600-page hardcover book. Artwork concept and implementation by ZonderZond. Afterword by Tikhon "Hee-How" Kubov. "Piece Goods Line" series by RAIG/ZonderZond (49 pieces manufactured).
Read what people think: Rate Your Music (USA).
"LEBENSwelt" (Schon eure Zahl ist Frevel) (2006) / CD $13.00
“Lebenswelt” is inspired by ambiguous and prophetic writings by Stefan George (1868-1933), German poet, editor and translator. It collects trio’s recordings from 2004-2005 depicting morose and apocalyptic visions of modern civilization. With certain references to German, French and Russian philosophy and symbolism, the album sounds massive, dark and retired. (13 tracks - 64 min.)
PRESS CLIPS
"On here you'll find the artists combining elements taken from dark ambience, metal scraping of all shades, electro acoustic passages, sample manipulation, organic drones, frazzled electronic noise, field recordings (possibly) and a little bit of minimalist leanings. The whole post Industrial vibe is to be found throughout. The sound sculptures, or soundscapes are an act of desolate refinement. This is a sonically bleak recording that delves deep into the psyche. The music shifting on aural plains creating the most ingenious of oppressive atmospheres. Whether it be the slowly built up strung out tensions that abound, the inspired use of melancholy induced manipulated electronics, or the rhythmic beats that creep up unawares, the air is fuelled by an apocalyptic cry of intangible frailty and despair. There is so much to admire and nothing to fault on this recording. The act of utilising different musical genres has helped create an aural landscape tinged and seared by fear, loathing and dread... and all without isolating the listener in any shape or form. They drag you into their nightmarish scenario and allow your imagination free reign to decipher the sounds for yourself without resorting to shock tactics of any kind. A welcome change and one that makes this recording stand out from others of that ilk. To anyone with the slightest bit of interest in intense, and ultimately satisfying, experimental / post Industrial music then this first official release by Lebenswelt meets the bill. Their creative use of sound is masterly and a credit to them. That their release succeeds on so many levels testament to their undoubted talents. Pretty damn excellent all round if I say so myself. p.s. As for the 5 previous CDRs mentioned. I've no hope in hell of getting my grubby paws on them. They were distributed free only to acquaintances. I doubt a half decently written review will endear them that much to me. Isn't that always the way of things nowadays? Bugger!!" – by ANM at Aural Pressure (UK) (September 2006).
"On first listening I would have described Lebenswelt’s style as similar to Daniel Menche, but closer inspection has shown this to be wide of the mark, a comparison that doesn’t do Lebenswelt true justice. Theirs is a cleaner, more defined sound, sparse in comparison to Menche’s sonic overload, but equally inventive and innovative, compositions rather than constructions. Indeed, some parts of this album are almost breathtakingly orchestral in size, scope and emotional impact. Darkness and light, beauty and menace, rendered in sound against a backdrop of industrial decay. A damn fine release and a promise of many good things yet to come." – by DonTen at Heathen Harvest (USA) (February 2007).
The album was also reviewed at: Chain D.L.K. (Italy), Re:Gen Magazine (Sweden), Mechanoise Labs (France), Radiodrone (Russia).
"LEBENSjunge" (der junge Tag) (2004/2009) / MP3-file: FMA free download
Performed live as GAM by Andrei B., Igor M. and Mamikon V. in 2003. Originally released in 2004 as a cassette, numbered edition of 22 copies. "Junge" was the first authorized recording of the "LEBENS" series. This is fully remixed and remastered version of an old tape. (5 tracks - 26 min.).
Title | Media | Price |
MC | MP3-file (Accessory Takes) | out-of-print | free download | |
CD (RAIG) | $13.00 | |
pro-duplicated CD-R (RAIG) | $44.00 |
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