Schelmish
| Company type | Ensemble / Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1999 |
| Defunct | December 2012 |
| Headquarters | Bonn , Germany |
| Products | Mittelalter rock music |
Schelmish was a Mittelalter rock ensemble originating from Bonn, Germany, established in 1999 initially to celebrate the birthday of Des Demonia's mother. Their repertoire incorporated a variety of languages such as German, English, Latin, French, alongside several archaic tongues. The group ceased activities in December 2012; following the split, some members went on to create the electro folk rock band InVictus.
History
Initially influenced by Irish folk music, Schelmish gradually transitioned toward the Mittelalter Rock genre. Their first album, Von Räubern, Lumpen und anderen Schelmen (2000), presented traditional medieval songs performed by the original formation.
The 2001 release Aequinoctium continued to showcase medieval tracks; during this period, Balitur joined the band while Igerne and Buchanan departed.
With the 2002 album Codex Lascivus, the band introduced original compositions. New members Amsel von Nydeggen, Fragor der Schlagfertige, Sakepharus der Schmierenkomödiant, and Septimus became part of the lineup. The instrumental piece Rotta emerged as a concert favorite.
Their fourth studio effort, Tempus mutatur (2003), maintained most of the existing members and featured guest vocals by Michael Rhein from In Extremo on two songs. This album marked their initial incorporation of electric guitars and bass.
Ahead of their next full-length, a maxi single titled Si salvas me was released in 2003. During this time, Luzi das L joined while Baccata departed due to health concerns.
The 2004 album Igni Gena demonstrated a stronger rhythmic foundation and an integration of different genres, including a medieval adaptation of Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire. Michael Rhein returned as a guest vocalist.
In 2005, Schelmish issued a live album recorded at Kulturfabrik in Krefeld. That year also saw the release of their first DVD, Coetus, which contained live performances, collaborations with members from Das letzte Einhorn and In Extremo, music videos, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage. This project coincided with the departure of Amsel von Nydeggen.
The sixth studio album, Mente Capti (2006), featured an expanded lineup of eight musicians and embraced a more rock-oriented sound with electric guitars, bass guitar, and contemporary drum kits. The record combined rearranged traditional songs with new compositions centered on themes such as love and sorrow.
At the start of 2007, Sakepharus left to prioritize family commitments; meanwhile, Dschieses and Picus joined the group. Mid-year saw Johannes der Säufer exit and be replaced by Sideribus illustris on bass.
October 2007 marked the release of their seventh album Wir werden sehen, accompanied by a supporting tour. Prior to this launch, the single Moor was issued in September. Early 2008 brought further lineup adjustments: Dschieses and Sideribus departed; Samtron (drums) and Alexis de la Vega (bass) were added. Fragor reduced his live appearances and eventually left in April 2008.
On 28 October 2009, their ninth album Die hässlichen Kinder was released through Napalm Records in Finland and Spain; it became available in the United States and Canada by November 3.
Albums
- 2000: Von Räubern, Lumpen und anderen Schelmen
- 2001: Aequinoctium
- 2002: Codex Lascivus
- 2003: Tempus Mutatur
- 2004: Igni Gena
- 2005: Schelmish Live (Live CD)
- 2006: Mente Capti
- 2007: Wir werden sehen
- 2009: Die hässlichen Kinder
- 2010: Persona non Grata
Maxi singles
- 2003: "Si salvas me" (Anthem of Satzvey Castle)
- 2007: "Moor"
DVD releases
- 2005: Coetus