HISS - For a handful of cents
The HISS band has been on the road since 1995. When Mount Etna and Eyjafjallajökull erupted, and when once-in-a-century floods and hurricanes caused widespread damage, they lifted our spirits and comforted us. After Germany’s defeat against Croatia in the quarterfinals of the 1998 World Cup and during the financial crisis, following the Fukushima nuclear disaster and throughout many epidemics, they helped us keep our bearings, put things into perspective, and cope.
Since 1995, HISS has provided lyrical life guidance for every situation, the rhythm for lively dance nights, and the soundtrack to our everyday lives. And they do so without asking for much: thunderous applause, a little wine, a snack, and a few coins are reward enough for them. “Für eine Handvoll Cent” is therefore also the title of their new album, released in their 30th year and delighting us with more than a handful of new songs.
We hear songs full of energy, wit, and life experience about the timeless themes of love, addiction, long-distance travel, and the weather—all in a globally unique blend of polka and rock ’n’ roll, Tex-Mex and Balkan blues, ska and country, grit and schmaltz.
The band’s image of outlaws and vagabonds is complemented by the songs’ pitch-black, ironically cynical lyrics.
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Photo: Luzie Marquardt
