Jochen Distelmeyer

From 1990 to 2007, Jochen Distelmeyer fronted one of Germany's premiere indie rock bands. Named after a Kafka short story, Blumfeld made music that was experimental, political, and performed almost entirely in German. As a result, Blumfeld were considered one of the founders of the Hamburger Schule, a musical movement characterized by a grungy, experimental sound and socially critical lyrics. Blumfeld's sound changed directions during the band's career, earning comparisons to Pavement during the early days and taking on a pop-friendly sheen during the 2000s. When the group broke up in 2007, Distelmeyer launched his own career, making his solo debut with the release of 2009's Heavy. ~ Andrew Leahey