Superior (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Defunct | 2007 |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Products | Progressive metal music |
Superior was a German progressive metal group formed in 1992 and active until their dissolution in 2007. Their musical approach drew frequent comparisons to Dream Theater, although they maintained a unique sound.[1]
History
Approximately eight months after coming together, Superior released their demo Timeshift, which included an early rendition of "Tomorrow's Eve" that later appeared on their debut album Behind. Until the middle of 1994, their live performances were primarily concentrated in southwestern Germany before shifting focus toward producing their first full-length recording.[2] The creation process spanned a year, involving songwriting, arrangement, and conceptual development. The album was recorded in 1995 at Roko Soundstudios and featured a progressive metal style characterized by powerful guitar work alongside intricate piano and string orchestrations.
Following the album’s completion, Superior secured a deal with Hamburg-based label L.M.P., which facilitated connections with several record companies. In autumn 1996, they finalized a contract with Modern Music/Noise Records.[2] Shortly thereafter, they embarked on a German tour supporting Virgin Steele and Angra. During this tour, keyboardist Jan-Marco Becker sustained a serious hand injury that required surgical intervention.[2] Assistance came from Angra’s vocalist Andre Matos, who helped rehearse keyboard parts so that Superior could continue performing.[2] After the tour concluded, the band paused activities to allow Becker time for recovery.
By mid-1997, Superior resumed live performances with a brief tour in France that included acoustic sessions.[2] They also played several shows across Germany while working on new material for their sophomore album.[2]
Between March and May 1998, Superior completed the recording, mixing, and mastering of their second album, Younique, which was released in August of the same year.[2] This release incorporated heavy guitar riffs alongside varied keyboard textures, acoustic guitars, sitar influences, brass sections, and saxophone solos. It received international recognition as an important achievement within the progressive music scene. Following its release, the band toured with Angra and Stratovarius.
For their subsequent project—a concept album exploring themes of religious extremism and its repercussions—Superior collaborated with French label NTS Records. The recording process at Roko Soundstudios extended over six months. Ultima Ratio showcased a more refined structure compared to Younique, emphasizing robust guitar parts and piano arrangements paired with Michael Tangermann’s vocal performance. Noise Records eventually considered the band’s style incompatible with their predominantly metal-oriented roster.
According to information on their Myspace page, Superior completed a fourth album in 2007; however, financial constraints prevented its official distribution. No further communications regarding this release were made.
The group officially disbanded at the end of 2007 due to the cumulative challenges posed by extensive touring schedules, recording obligations, and personal family responsibilities.
Lineup
- Michael Tangermann – vocals
- Bernd Basmer – guitar
- Michael Müller – guitar
- Martin Reichhart – bass guitar
- Jan-Marco Becker – keyboards
- Thomas Mayer – drums
Discography
Source:
- Behind (1996)
- Younique (1998)
- Ultima Ratio (2002)
- Ultra – Live (2005)