Characters
of The StarBast
- Bastian "The Rider" Steppenwolf(born June 17, 1950)
is a German guitarist, songwriter, musician, director, and screenwriter.
He is best known as the lead guitarist of the cult band The StarBast.
Early Years and Musical Formation
Bastian was born in Cologne into an aristocratic family. His mother was a successful entrepreneur, and his father was a journalist, which created an atmosphere of intellect and culture in the household. From an early age, Steppenwolf was passionate about music, and in 1967, he entered the Cologne University of Music. There, his mentor was saxophonist Josef Meister, a student of Karlheinz Stockhausen, which influenced Bastian's early musical experiments. However, he soon realized that he was more drawn to "listenable" music, focused on classic pop-rock.
In 1968, together with fellow student Koeb Vilde, Bastian composed several songs that later became part of the band's debut album, The Eye of Bosch. This album laid the foundation for their collaborative musical work.
The Formation of The StarBast and Musical Career
By 1968, Bastian and Koeb began performing in student campuses and pubs across West Germany, which led to the creation of The StarBast. In 1971, they were noticed by media mogul Ende Sternenmann, who offered support, and by 1972, their debut album "The Eye of Bosch" was released. This album immediately attracted the attention of critics, and Bastian was compared to Mick Ronson, emphasizing his ability to build sound and create unique soundscapes.
From 1972 to 1978, the band toured Europe and West Germany. This period marked not only a time of success for Bastian but also a severe trial—physical and moral exhaustion led to tensions within the band and a break with their sponsor.
Creative Milestones
After a hiatus, The StarBast returned to recording new albums. Among their most significant works are "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", and "Maze D'Or". However, their creative pinnacle came with the conceptual album "Radio IliOna", recorded in Paris after the tragic events of 1983.
By 1988, the band faced deep creative differences. Deciding to escape from civilization, they traveled to an equatorial island to work on a new album, "Pourquoi 17". However, a natural disaster in the form of an earthquake shattered their plans, and the band disbanded.
A New Life in India
After the breakup of the band, Bastian moved to India, to the suburbs of Bombay, where he began a new career as a director and producer. His films, such as "The Mysterious Disappearance of the White Peacock" and "The World Floats on a Turtle", gained recognition in Bollywood. Bastian became known for skillfully combining Indian meditative practices with music and cinema, creating unique cultural projects.
One Bollywood expert said: "Steppenwolf, like a magician, blended Indian practices of yoga and meditation with music, creating a symphony of celestial sounds and earthly images.”
Return to Europe and New Projects
In 2014, Bastian returned to Europe to spend more time with his family and continue working on his musical projects. In addition, he owns a collection of meditative labyrinths and organizes concerts dedicated to promoting Indian music in Europe.
Legacy
Bastian Steppenwolf remains a symbol of creative exploration and self-discovery. His life and work are a journey through music, cinema, and philosophy, in which he finds balance between Western music and Eastern wisdom. His deep reflections on life and art make him a "rider" not only in a creative sense but also in his quest for harmony between different cultures and approaches to life.
Bastian was born in Cologne into an aristocratic family. His mother was a successful entrepreneur, and his father was a journalist, which created an atmosphere of intellect and culture in the household. From an early age, Steppenwolf was passionate about music, and in 1967, he entered the Cologne University of Music. There, his mentor was saxophonist Josef Meister, a student of Karlheinz Stockhausen, which influenced Bastian's early musical experiments. However, he soon realized that he was more drawn to "listenable" music, focused on classic pop-rock.
In 1968, together with fellow student Koeb Vilde, Bastian composed several songs that later became part of the band's debut album, The Eye of Bosch. This album laid the foundation for their collaborative musical work.
The Formation of The StarBast and Musical Career
By 1968, Bastian and Koeb began performing in student campuses and pubs across West Germany, which led to the creation of The StarBast. In 1971, they were noticed by media mogul Ende Sternenmann, who offered support, and by 1972, their debut album "The Eye of Bosch" was released. This album immediately attracted the attention of critics, and Bastian was compared to Mick Ronson, emphasizing his ability to build sound and create unique soundscapes.
From 1972 to 1978, the band toured Europe and West Germany. This period marked not only a time of success for Bastian but also a severe trial—physical and moral exhaustion led to tensions within the band and a break with their sponsor.
Creative Milestones
After a hiatus, The StarBast returned to recording new albums. Among their most significant works are "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", and "Maze D'Or". However, their creative pinnacle came with the conceptual album "Radio IliOna", recorded in Paris after the tragic events of 1983.
By 1988, the band faced deep creative differences. Deciding to escape from civilization, they traveled to an equatorial island to work on a new album, "Pourquoi 17". However, a natural disaster in the form of an earthquake shattered their plans, and the band disbanded.
A New Life in India
After the breakup of the band, Bastian moved to India, to the suburbs of Bombay, where he began a new career as a director and producer. His films, such as "The Mysterious Disappearance of the White Peacock" and "The World Floats on a Turtle", gained recognition in Bollywood. Bastian became known for skillfully combining Indian meditative practices with music and cinema, creating unique cultural projects.
One Bollywood expert said: "Steppenwolf, like a magician, blended Indian practices of yoga and meditation with music, creating a symphony of celestial sounds and earthly images.”
Return to Europe and New Projects
In 2014, Bastian returned to Europe to spend more time with his family and continue working on his musical projects. In addition, he owns a collection of meditative labyrinths and organizes concerts dedicated to promoting Indian music in Europe.
Legacy
Bastian Steppenwolf remains a symbol of creative exploration and self-discovery. His life and work are a journey through music, cinema, and philosophy, in which he finds balance between Western music and Eastern wisdom. His deep reflections on life and art make him a "rider" not only in a creative sense but also in his quest for harmony between different cultures and approaches to life.
- Koeb "The Savage" Vilde(born June 10, 1950)is a German innovative musician, poet, songwriter, and bassist of the cult band The StarBast.
Early Years and Influences
Koeb was born in Cologne to a family where his mother worked as an accountant, and his father was an engineer at a military factory. His love for music manifested at an early age: at six years old, his father enrolled him in a music school, where he began studying piano. However, his true passion for music awakened at the age of 12 when he received his first bass guitar as a gift. This instrument forever changed his life.
In 1967, his childhood friend, Bastian Steppenwolf, suggested that Koeb join him in enrolling at the Cologne University of Music. Under the guidance of saxophonist Josef Meister, who was a student of Karlheinz Stockhausen, Koeb became fascinated by experimental music and music theory, laying the foundation for his innovative approach to playing the bass guitar.
The Formation of The StarBast and Musical Career
In 1968, Koeb and Bastian began composing music, which later became part of their debut album, "The Eye of Bosch". Their creative collaboration was not easy: Koeb aimed for philosophical and deep lyrics, while Bastian preferred more traditional forms. These differences made their music unique, and in the early 1970s, they founded the band The StarBast, which soon became a symbol of the musical underground.
In 1972, the band released their album "The Eye of Bosch", which achieved cult status among students. Koeb stood out with his bass playing, creating sound labyrinths that both unsettled and inspired listeners. His energetic and daring playing style earned him the nickname "The Savage.”
Personal Life and New Searches
In the late 1970s, after extensive touring, Koeb began seeking new forms of self-expression. He joined a group of post-Acmeist poets and befriended poet and mystic Gavr Velimut. During this period, he married the band's vocalist, Eri McQuinby, who became his main muse. In 1989, they had a daughter, Boogie, nicknamed "Freedom," symbolizing their hopes for liberation.
Experiments and Later Years
In the 1980s, Koeb met bassist Mick Karn, which opened new horizons for his creativity. However, his solo career was less successful: his single "Song №6" caused a scandal and was deemed too radical for the public. This period was accompanied by a nervous breakdown and the onset of a disease that gradually impaired his memory.
By 1988, The StarBast decided to return to their roots and record an album on an equatorial island, but a volcanic eruption disrupted their plans. This event marked the final chapter in the band's history, and Koeb withdrew from music, turning to spiritual pursuits and becoming a guide on the Way of St. James.
Return to Music
In 2014, his former mentor, Josef Meister, invited Koeb to a reunion of the band. Negotiations took place in Dublin, providing Koeb with the opportunity to reconnect with his roots and, perhaps, find new meaning in his life.
Koeb was born in Cologne to a family where his mother worked as an accountant, and his father was an engineer at a military factory. His love for music manifested at an early age: at six years old, his father enrolled him in a music school, where he began studying piano. However, his true passion for music awakened at the age of 12 when he received his first bass guitar as a gift. This instrument forever changed his life.
In 1967, his childhood friend, Bastian Steppenwolf, suggested that Koeb join him in enrolling at the Cologne University of Music. Under the guidance of saxophonist Josef Meister, who was a student of Karlheinz Stockhausen, Koeb became fascinated by experimental music and music theory, laying the foundation for his innovative approach to playing the bass guitar.
The Formation of The StarBast and Musical Career
In 1968, Koeb and Bastian began composing music, which later became part of their debut album, "The Eye of Bosch". Their creative collaboration was not easy: Koeb aimed for philosophical and deep lyrics, while Bastian preferred more traditional forms. These differences made their music unique, and in the early 1970s, they founded the band The StarBast, which soon became a symbol of the musical underground.
In 1972, the band released their album "The Eye of Bosch", which achieved cult status among students. Koeb stood out with his bass playing, creating sound labyrinths that both unsettled and inspired listeners. His energetic and daring playing style earned him the nickname "The Savage.”
Personal Life and New Searches
In the late 1970s, after extensive touring, Koeb began seeking new forms of self-expression. He joined a group of post-Acmeist poets and befriended poet and mystic Gavr Velimut. During this period, he married the band's vocalist, Eri McQuinby, who became his main muse. In 1989, they had a daughter, Boogie, nicknamed "Freedom," symbolizing their hopes for liberation.
Experiments and Later Years
In the 1980s, Koeb met bassist Mick Karn, which opened new horizons for his creativity. However, his solo career was less successful: his single "Song №6" caused a scandal and was deemed too radical for the public. This period was accompanied by a nervous breakdown and the onset of a disease that gradually impaired his memory.
By 1988, The StarBast decided to return to their roots and record an album on an equatorial island, but a volcanic eruption disrupted their plans. This event marked the final chapter in the band's history, and Koeb withdrew from music, turning to spiritual pursuits and becoming a guide on the Way of St. James.
Return to Music
In 2014, his former mentor, Josef Meister, invited Koeb to a reunion of the band. Negotiations took place in Dublin, providing Koeb with the opportunity to reconnect with his roots and, perhaps, find new meaning in his life.
- Hermann Erich Schildkröte "Galapagos"(born July 1, 1950)is a keyboardist, writer, collector of musical instruments, and chronicler of the legendary band The StarBast.
Early Years
Hermann was born on July 1, 1950, but his passport lists 1952 as his birth year — according to his mother, this was done for safety during the turbulent post-war years. She claimed that these "extra" two years allowed Hermann to enter school without raising questions. It was there that he met his future bandmates — Koeb Vilde and Bastian Steppenwolf. Later, Hermann studied at the Cologne University of Music, where he developed as a musician and composer.
From a young age, Hermann was passionate about music. There were always records playing in the family home, and an old piano became his first instrument. Hermann's father was politically active and ran for the Bundestag in 1969 but was forced to withdraw his candidacy due to a scandal, which later turned out to involve his son. His childhood friendship with Klaus Liebste, who later became the drummer of The StarBast, played a key role in his musical journey.
The StarBast and Musical Career
From the early days of the band's existence, Hermann was an integral part of it. He participated in the recording of all of The StarBast's key albums, including "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", "Pourquoi 17", "Radio IliOna", and their debut album, "The Eye of Bosch". His contribution was significant not only in creating and performing the musical material but also in shaping the band's musical style. Hermann revealed hidden harmonies, experimenting with various genres and sounds.
His unique style of playing keyboards involved the use of layered soundtracks, pre-recorded effects, and the synthesis of jazz harmonies with electronic noise. In every album, Hermann sought new sounds, actively using synthesizers and rare musical instruments, which he passionately collected.
Personal Life and Challenges
Hermann's life was not without its challenges and difficulties. In the late 1960s, he became involved in a drug scandal, specializing in psychedelic mushrooms, which strained his relationship with his father and impacted his future path.
In 1988, The StarBast reunited to record a new album on one of the equatorial islands. However, their plans were disrupted by a volcanic eruption. Hermann stayed on the island longer than anyone else to preserve the band's archives, symbolizing his dedication to the group and their shared history.
Later in life, Hermann met his partner, Kirka. Despite a significant age difference, their relationship proved to be strong and fruitful. At the age of 64, Hermann learned that he would become a father, which became a symbol for him that life never ceases to offer unexpected gifts.
Present Day
Today, Hermann lives in The Hague, where he co-owns the café-restaurant "GALAPAGOS". Despite his rich career, he has kept a diary since childhood, recording his thoughts and life events. These entries became the foundation for seven books in which he shares his reflections on music, life, and creativity.
Hermann remained loyal to his friends despite disagreements and crises. His friendships with Bastian and Koeb withstood the test of time, and his wisdom and inner resilience often provided them with support during difficult moments. Hermann was always a unifying force among the band members, helping to preserve their shared memories and maintain their relationships.
Hermann Erich Schildkröte remains a symbol of loyalty to art and people. With his calm, thoughtful nature, he is not only an outstanding musician but also a person who exemplifies how to maintain humanity and friendship despite all the trials that life presents.
Hermann was born on July 1, 1950, but his passport lists 1952 as his birth year — according to his mother, this was done for safety during the turbulent post-war years. She claimed that these "extra" two years allowed Hermann to enter school without raising questions. It was there that he met his future bandmates — Koeb Vilde and Bastian Steppenwolf. Later, Hermann studied at the Cologne University of Music, where he developed as a musician and composer.
From a young age, Hermann was passionate about music. There were always records playing in the family home, and an old piano became his first instrument. Hermann's father was politically active and ran for the Bundestag in 1969 but was forced to withdraw his candidacy due to a scandal, which later turned out to involve his son. His childhood friendship with Klaus Liebste, who later became the drummer of The StarBast, played a key role in his musical journey.
The StarBast and Musical Career
From the early days of the band's existence, Hermann was an integral part of it. He participated in the recording of all of The StarBast's key albums, including "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", "Pourquoi 17", "Radio IliOna", and their debut album, "The Eye of Bosch". His contribution was significant not only in creating and performing the musical material but also in shaping the band's musical style. Hermann revealed hidden harmonies, experimenting with various genres and sounds.
His unique style of playing keyboards involved the use of layered soundtracks, pre-recorded effects, and the synthesis of jazz harmonies with electronic noise. In every album, Hermann sought new sounds, actively using synthesizers and rare musical instruments, which he passionately collected.
Personal Life and Challenges
Hermann's life was not without its challenges and difficulties. In the late 1960s, he became involved in a drug scandal, specializing in psychedelic mushrooms, which strained his relationship with his father and impacted his future path.
In 1988, The StarBast reunited to record a new album on one of the equatorial islands. However, their plans were disrupted by a volcanic eruption. Hermann stayed on the island longer than anyone else to preserve the band's archives, symbolizing his dedication to the group and their shared history.
Later in life, Hermann met his partner, Kirka. Despite a significant age difference, their relationship proved to be strong and fruitful. At the age of 64, Hermann learned that he would become a father, which became a symbol for him that life never ceases to offer unexpected gifts.
Present Day
Today, Hermann lives in The Hague, where he co-owns the café-restaurant "GALAPAGOS". Despite his rich career, he has kept a diary since childhood, recording his thoughts and life events. These entries became the foundation for seven books in which he shares his reflections on music, life, and creativity.
Hermann remained loyal to his friends despite disagreements and crises. His friendships with Bastian and Koeb withstood the test of time, and his wisdom and inner resilience often provided them with support during difficult moments. Hermann was always a unifying force among the band members, helping to preserve their shared memories and maintain their relationships.
Hermann Erich Schildkröte remains a symbol of loyalty to art and people. With his calm, thoughtful nature, he is not only an outstanding musician but also a person who exemplifies how to maintain humanity and friendship despite all the trials that life presents.
- Eri McQuinby(born in 1951)is a vocalist, composer, and artist, known as the "QueenBee" of the band The StarBast. Her unique voice and charismatic presence made her a significant figure on the German rock scene of the 1970s and 1980s.
Early Years
Eri McQuinby was born in Cologne in 1951. From an early age, she showed interest in art and music, which led her to the Cologne School of Arts. There, she studied not only music but also performance and the art of provocation, drawing inspiration from icons such as Robert Smithson, Dennis Oppenheim, and Karlheinz Stockhausen. Her passion for painting ran parallel to her musical career, although Eri saw it only as a way to escape reality, avoiding exhibitions and the gallery culture.
Despite this, her artistic style, based on geometric expressionism, the deconstruction of reality, and surrealist elements, created a distinctive visual language that echoed her musical career.
Joining The StarBast
After joining The StarBast in the early 1970s, Eri quickly became an integral part of the band. Her soft, mesmerizing voice, reminiscent of the whispers of mythical elves, added a mystical atmosphere to the band's experimental sound. She inspired the members to create unique compositions that combined rock, avant-garde, and jazz elements. Thanks to her vocals, The StarBast produced such cult albums as "The Eye of Bosch", "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", and "Radio IliOna".
Eri became the creative core of the band, its "Mother." Her charisma on stage captivated the audience, and her emotional and profound vocal performances made each song unforgettable. She embodied the band's pursuit of musical freedom and expression.
Personal Life
Eri married the band's bassist, Koeb Vilde, known as "The Savage," which further strengthened her connection to the group. In 1989, the couple had a daughter, Boogie, whom they nicknamed "Freedom," seeing in her a symbol of liberty and hope.
Retirement from the Stage and New Life
After the band's breakup in 1988, following the natural disaster on the equatorial island, Eri left the music scene. This decision came as a surprise to fans. She began working as a nurse with the Red Cross, finding her calling in helping others.
Legacy
Eri continued to stay connected to the music culture through the rock bar "White Peacock", which she co-owns with Josef Meister, the band's saxophonist. Her works still adorn the interior of the bar in Dublin, reflecting her inner search and quest for freedom. Eri McQuinby remains one of the most significant women in the history of German rock, a voice that inspired an entire generation of musicians and fans.
Eri McQuinby was born in Cologne in 1951. From an early age, she showed interest in art and music, which led her to the Cologne School of Arts. There, she studied not only music but also performance and the art of provocation, drawing inspiration from icons such as Robert Smithson, Dennis Oppenheim, and Karlheinz Stockhausen. Her passion for painting ran parallel to her musical career, although Eri saw it only as a way to escape reality, avoiding exhibitions and the gallery culture.
Despite this, her artistic style, based on geometric expressionism, the deconstruction of reality, and surrealist elements, created a distinctive visual language that echoed her musical career.
Joining The StarBast
After joining The StarBast in the early 1970s, Eri quickly became an integral part of the band. Her soft, mesmerizing voice, reminiscent of the whispers of mythical elves, added a mystical atmosphere to the band's experimental sound. She inspired the members to create unique compositions that combined rock, avant-garde, and jazz elements. Thanks to her vocals, The StarBast produced such cult albums as "The Eye of Bosch", "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", and "Radio IliOna".
Eri became the creative core of the band, its "Mother." Her charisma on stage captivated the audience, and her emotional and profound vocal performances made each song unforgettable. She embodied the band's pursuit of musical freedom and expression.
Personal Life
Eri married the band's bassist, Koeb Vilde, known as "The Savage," which further strengthened her connection to the group. In 1989, the couple had a daughter, Boogie, whom they nicknamed "Freedom," seeing in her a symbol of liberty and hope.
Retirement from the Stage and New Life
After the band's breakup in 1988, following the natural disaster on the equatorial island, Eri left the music scene. This decision came as a surprise to fans. She began working as a nurse with the Red Cross, finding her calling in helping others.
Legacy
Eri continued to stay connected to the music culture through the rock bar "White Peacock", which she co-owns with Josef Meister, the band's saxophonist. Her works still adorn the interior of the bar in Dublin, reflecting her inner search and quest for freedom. Eri McQuinby remains one of the most significant women in the history of German rock, a voice that inspired an entire generation of musicians and fans.
- Klaus Liebster "Incubus"(born June 30, 1950)is a legendary drummer and photographer, a member of the cult band The StarBast. His unique drumming style and mysterious ability to generate melodies made him one of the most pioneering and discussed figures in 20th-century German rock history.
Early Years and Education
Klaus Liebster was born and raised in Cologne. From an early age, his life was closely connected to music. His childhood was spent alongside his friend Hermann Schildkröte, the future keyboardist of The StarBast, with whom he later enrolled in the Cologne University of Music. In this atmosphere of experimentation and musical discoveries, Klaus began developing his unique drumming style.
Joining The StarBast
Klaus joined The StarBast in the early 1970s, and from the very beginning, he became more than just a drummer — he was the foundation of the band's rhythmic structure, the group's metronome. His drumming technique went beyond the traditional, combining aggressive energy with unexpected transitions and nuances that gave the band's music a mystical quality. For his exceptional skill, he earned the nickname "Incubus." He not only created atmosphere with his drumming but also with mysterious melodies that, according to rumors, emerged thanks to a mysterious object he possessed. No one could ever determine whether it was a music box or a sacred tablet, but everyone was certain: Klaus held the secret to creating genius melodies.
There is a belief that Klaus was the primary creative genius behind albums such as "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", and "Radio IliOna". His ability to create complex, multi-layered sound compositions became the source of rumors and speculation, but the band members themselves preferred not to disclose details.
Life Outside of Music
After the breakup of The StarBast in the late 1980s, Liebster drastically changed his life. Contrary to the expectations of many, he left the music scene and became a war photojournalist. His ability to capture dramatic moments in photographs made him one of the most sought-after photojournalists of the time.
Venturing into film, Klaus created "Maze D'Or", a film that was shortlisted for the International Sound and Film Music award. This project exemplified how his talent extended far beyond music alone.
Personality and Lifestyle
Klaus Liebster, known as "the wildest of the wild," was a charismatic and contradictory figure. Witty, never missing an opportunity with the ladies, and a master of mysteries, he was never who he seemed at first glance. Always at the center of events, he was the life of any party, constantly making people laugh and marvel at his antics. His famous catchphrase, "That's not how it's done, darling!" became legendary among the band's fans and within the music industry.
Legacy
Despite all the rumors and speculation, Klaus Liebster remains one of the most enigmatic figures in the history of German rock. His contribution to The StarBast's development and his subsequent creative experiments continue to amaze and inspire musicians and fans worldwide. His drumming technique, mystical ability to create music, and extraordinary personality made him a true legend.
Today, the best music studios in the world continue to chase after Liebster, hoping to capture even a fragment of his genius. But, as always, Klaus remains a mystery, the keeper of unrevealed musical secrets that he used only when he deemed it necessary.
Klaus Liebster was born and raised in Cologne. From an early age, his life was closely connected to music. His childhood was spent alongside his friend Hermann Schildkröte, the future keyboardist of The StarBast, with whom he later enrolled in the Cologne University of Music. In this atmosphere of experimentation and musical discoveries, Klaus began developing his unique drumming style.
Joining The StarBast
Klaus joined The StarBast in the early 1970s, and from the very beginning, he became more than just a drummer — he was the foundation of the band's rhythmic structure, the group's metronome. His drumming technique went beyond the traditional, combining aggressive energy with unexpected transitions and nuances that gave the band's music a mystical quality. For his exceptional skill, he earned the nickname "Incubus." He not only created atmosphere with his drumming but also with mysterious melodies that, according to rumors, emerged thanks to a mysterious object he possessed. No one could ever determine whether it was a music box or a sacred tablet, but everyone was certain: Klaus held the secret to creating genius melodies.
There is a belief that Klaus was the primary creative genius behind albums such as "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", and "Radio IliOna". His ability to create complex, multi-layered sound compositions became the source of rumors and speculation, but the band members themselves preferred not to disclose details.
Life Outside of Music
After the breakup of The StarBast in the late 1980s, Liebster drastically changed his life. Contrary to the expectations of many, he left the music scene and became a war photojournalist. His ability to capture dramatic moments in photographs made him one of the most sought-after photojournalists of the time.
Venturing into film, Klaus created "Maze D'Or", a film that was shortlisted for the International Sound and Film Music award. This project exemplified how his talent extended far beyond music alone.
Personality and Lifestyle
Klaus Liebster, known as "the wildest of the wild," was a charismatic and contradictory figure. Witty, never missing an opportunity with the ladies, and a master of mysteries, he was never who he seemed at first glance. Always at the center of events, he was the life of any party, constantly making people laugh and marvel at his antics. His famous catchphrase, "That's not how it's done, darling!" became legendary among the band's fans and within the music industry.
Legacy
Despite all the rumors and speculation, Klaus Liebster remains one of the most enigmatic figures in the history of German rock. His contribution to The StarBast's development and his subsequent creative experiments continue to amaze and inspire musicians and fans worldwide. His drumming technique, mystical ability to create music, and extraordinary personality made him a true legend.
Today, the best music studios in the world continue to chase after Liebster, hoping to capture even a fragment of his genius. But, as always, Klaus remains a mystery, the keeper of unrevealed musical secrets that he used only when he deemed it necessary.
- Schwartz Viper "Black Adder"(born October 16, 1956)is an innovative guitarist whose virtuoso playing and unconventional approach to music had a significant influence on the development of German rock in the late 20th century. As the youngest member of the cult band The StarBast, Schwartz became a key figure in shaping the band's recognizable and multi-layered sound.
Early Years and Musical Development
Schwartz Viper was born in 1956, and his life was shrouded in mystery from the very beginning. The illegitimate son of the legendary bassist Billy Cox, he inherited not only talent but also a passion for experimentation. A self-taught guitarist, Schwartz mastered the instrument on his own, creating complex and layered melodies that reflected his desire to transcend traditional musical forms. From an early age, he was drawn to the philosophical aspects of music, viewing it not just as art but as a way to interact with archetypes and universal truths.
Joining The StarBast
Schwartz joined the band through a simple advertisement, but his arrival marked a turning point in the history of The StarBast. His guitar parts became crucial for albums like "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", "Pourquoi 17", "Radio IliOna", and especially "The Eye of Bosch", where his interpretation of the seven deadly sins through music added philosophical depth. Thanks to Schwartz, the harmonies created by Hermann Schildkröte were enriched by guitar sounds, giving the compositions a unique emotional and intellectual richness.
Schwartz was a guitarist who didn't just play music — he deeply felt its philosophical and emotional nature. His solos often became the core of the compositions, expressing a storm of emotions and an inner struggle that occurs within every individual. Both in the studio and on stage, he showed himself as an experimenter, introducing new elements and blending ska, blues, and rock into a unified structure.
Life After The StarBast and Teaching Career
After The StarBast disbanded, Schwartz didn't leave the world of music; instead, he became a mentor for future generations. His teaching career at the Cologne University of Music began with his ambitious plan to pass on his ideas and experiences to young musicians, allowing them not only to replicate the past but to create their own interpretations of timeless musical themes.
Schwartz approached teaching with the same adventurous spirit he brought to The StarBast. His courses were unique: he aimed to develop in his students the ability to capture "the vibrations of eternity" and create music that transcends time. He called this a return to archetypes, a search for harmonies and meanings that permeate the universe. His approach was not merely technical but also philosophical, challenging students with the ambitious task of writing an album that resonated with the same creative vibrations found in The StarBast.
Personal Life and Philosophy
Schwartz was in love with the band's vocalist, Eri McQuinby, as were many members of The StarBast, but his love was quiet, hidden, and deep, reflecting his personality. In life, as in music, he often remained in the background, but this allowed him to see the world from a different perspective. His passion and genius were evident in every chord, in every solo, but he never sought fame. For him, inner harmony and the ability to express ideas about freedom and the search for truth through music were more important.
Legacy
Schwartz Viper remains alive and continues to be actively involved in the music world. His legacy is not just music; it is an approach to art as a spiritual practice. He teaches his students not only technique but also the understanding that music is a language through which one can interact with the deepest levels of existence.
He continues to experiment, not for a moment straying from his principle that music and youth never fade. His works combine the energy of youthful passion and the wisdom of a man who has lived through much but has not lost touch with the most important truths.
Schwartz Viper remains one of those who shaped the sound of The StarBast and helped the band create its unique musical philosophy.
Schwartz Viper was born in 1956, and his life was shrouded in mystery from the very beginning. The illegitimate son of the legendary bassist Billy Cox, he inherited not only talent but also a passion for experimentation. A self-taught guitarist, Schwartz mastered the instrument on his own, creating complex and layered melodies that reflected his desire to transcend traditional musical forms. From an early age, he was drawn to the philosophical aspects of music, viewing it not just as art but as a way to interact with archetypes and universal truths.
Joining The StarBast
Schwartz joined the band through a simple advertisement, but his arrival marked a turning point in the history of The StarBast. His guitar parts became crucial for albums like "Bastian's Wanderings", "AUM", "Maze D'Or", "Pourquoi 17", "Radio IliOna", and especially "The Eye of Bosch", where his interpretation of the seven deadly sins through music added philosophical depth. Thanks to Schwartz, the harmonies created by Hermann Schildkröte were enriched by guitar sounds, giving the compositions a unique emotional and intellectual richness.
Schwartz was a guitarist who didn't just play music — he deeply felt its philosophical and emotional nature. His solos often became the core of the compositions, expressing a storm of emotions and an inner struggle that occurs within every individual. Both in the studio and on stage, he showed himself as an experimenter, introducing new elements and blending ska, blues, and rock into a unified structure.
Life After The StarBast and Teaching Career
After The StarBast disbanded, Schwartz didn't leave the world of music; instead, he became a mentor for future generations. His teaching career at the Cologne University of Music began with his ambitious plan to pass on his ideas and experiences to young musicians, allowing them not only to replicate the past but to create their own interpretations of timeless musical themes.
Schwartz approached teaching with the same adventurous spirit he brought to The StarBast. His courses were unique: he aimed to develop in his students the ability to capture "the vibrations of eternity" and create music that transcends time. He called this a return to archetypes, a search for harmonies and meanings that permeate the universe. His approach was not merely technical but also philosophical, challenging students with the ambitious task of writing an album that resonated with the same creative vibrations found in The StarBast.
Personal Life and Philosophy
Schwartz was in love with the band's vocalist, Eri McQuinby, as were many members of The StarBast, but his love was quiet, hidden, and deep, reflecting his personality. In life, as in music, he often remained in the background, but this allowed him to see the world from a different perspective. His passion and genius were evident in every chord, in every solo, but he never sought fame. For him, inner harmony and the ability to express ideas about freedom and the search for truth through music were more important.
Legacy
Schwartz Viper remains alive and continues to be actively involved in the music world. His legacy is not just music; it is an approach to art as a spiritual practice. He teaches his students not only technique but also the understanding that music is a language through which one can interact with the deepest levels of existence.
He continues to experiment, not for a moment straying from his principle that music and youth never fade. His works combine the energy of youthful passion and the wisdom of a man who has lived through much but has not lost touch with the most important truths.
Schwartz Viper remains one of those who shaped the sound of The StarBast and helped the band create its unique musical philosophy.
- Josef Meister "White Peacock"(born January 1, 1946)is a saxophonist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher who played a key role in the musical development of the members of The StarBast. As the owner of the cult rock bar and restaurant "White Peacock", he left a deep mark on both musical education and the development of experimental music in Germany.
Early Years and Education
Josef Meister was born in the difficult post-war years when hopes for a new life were closely intertwined with memories of loss. Josef's father, Heinrich, never returned from captivity, and the boy was raised by his mother, who invested all her love and energy into his upbringing. Despite her illness, she sought to give her son everything she could: a good education and the opportunity to pursue music.
Music entered Josef's life at the age of six. First, it was the piano, then the clarinet, and later the saxophone that became his guides into the world of sound. Alongside his musical studies, Josef developed a fascination with mathematics. He attended a club founded by a colleague of the famous mathematician Hans Zassenhaus, where he sought harmony in numbers and forms, just as he did in musical notes.
However, his life was soon overshadowed by a great loss: at the age of 12, Josef lost his mother to cancer. Her death was a powerful emotional blow to the boy, plunging him into deep sorrow. His love for his mother, which became almost obsessive, left an emptiness in his soul that he tried to fill with music.
After his mother's death, Josef's music teacher took him under his wing, helping him continue his education and develop his musical skills. Mathematics and music vied for his attention, but the final decision came when, at the age of 17, Josef composed two brilliant melodies. These short compositions thrilled his teacher, who wrote to Karlheinz Stockhausen, recognizing the boy's exceptional talent.
Musical Career and Crisis of Inspiration
Stockhausen became Josef's mentor and supporter, and their joint performances brought the young musician early fame. However, with recognition came difficulties: Josef faced a crisis of inspiration. He gradually realized that he couldn't create anything that surpassed his early works. This inner conflict with himself led to deep reflections: Why had his talent disappeared? Had he squandered his strength on premature performances?
Unable to find answers to his questions, Josef decided to temporarily stop composing music and devoted himself to teaching. His desire to understand himself and his place in music transformed into work on theoretical disciplines, and he soon became a professor of music theory at the Cologne University of Music.
Involvement with The StarBast
When students like Bastian Steppenwolf, Koeb Vilde, and Hermann Schildkröte came to his classes, Josef once again felt a surge of energy. These young musicians, bold and full of ideas, inspired him with their creativity. Their "Castalian key" was pure, untouched by disappointment like his own. Alongside them, Josef participated in creating the musical legacy of The StarBast, hoping that the inspiration that had once left him would return.
Josef became not only their mentor but also their guide into the world of experimental music, shaping their understanding of musical harmony and the avant-garde.
Personal Life and the White Peacock Bar
In addition to teaching and his involvement with the band, Josef Meister became the owner of the rock bar and restaurant White Peacock, which quickly became a meeting place for creative minds. The name of the bar refers to his nickname, "White Peacock," symbolizing not only his pride and refinement but also his inner drive toward beauty and perfection.
Legacy
Josef Meister's life is the story of a man who battled inner demons, creative crises, and the expectation of inspiration's return. His contribution to the development of music education and experimental music in Germany is immeasurable. He was not just a teacher or musician — he was someone who inspired and supported a new generation of musicians, passing on his love for music and harmony.
Josef Meister was born in the difficult post-war years when hopes for a new life were closely intertwined with memories of loss. Josef's father, Heinrich, never returned from captivity, and the boy was raised by his mother, who invested all her love and energy into his upbringing. Despite her illness, she sought to give her son everything she could: a good education and the opportunity to pursue music.
Music entered Josef's life at the age of six. First, it was the piano, then the clarinet, and later the saxophone that became his guides into the world of sound. Alongside his musical studies, Josef developed a fascination with mathematics. He attended a club founded by a colleague of the famous mathematician Hans Zassenhaus, where he sought harmony in numbers and forms, just as he did in musical notes.
However, his life was soon overshadowed by a great loss: at the age of 12, Josef lost his mother to cancer. Her death was a powerful emotional blow to the boy, plunging him into deep sorrow. His love for his mother, which became almost obsessive, left an emptiness in his soul that he tried to fill with music.
After his mother's death, Josef's music teacher took him under his wing, helping him continue his education and develop his musical skills. Mathematics and music vied for his attention, but the final decision came when, at the age of 17, Josef composed two brilliant melodies. These short compositions thrilled his teacher, who wrote to Karlheinz Stockhausen, recognizing the boy's exceptional talent.
Musical Career and Crisis of Inspiration
Stockhausen became Josef's mentor and supporter, and their joint performances brought the young musician early fame. However, with recognition came difficulties: Josef faced a crisis of inspiration. He gradually realized that he couldn't create anything that surpassed his early works. This inner conflict with himself led to deep reflections: Why had his talent disappeared? Had he squandered his strength on premature performances?
Unable to find answers to his questions, Josef decided to temporarily stop composing music and devoted himself to teaching. His desire to understand himself and his place in music transformed into work on theoretical disciplines, and he soon became a professor of music theory at the Cologne University of Music.
Involvement with The StarBast
When students like Bastian Steppenwolf, Koeb Vilde, and Hermann Schildkröte came to his classes, Josef once again felt a surge of energy. These young musicians, bold and full of ideas, inspired him with their creativity. Their "Castalian key" was pure, untouched by disappointment like his own. Alongside them, Josef participated in creating the musical legacy of The StarBast, hoping that the inspiration that had once left him would return.
Josef became not only their mentor but also their guide into the world of experimental music, shaping their understanding of musical harmony and the avant-garde.
Personal Life and the White Peacock Bar
In addition to teaching and his involvement with the band, Josef Meister became the owner of the rock bar and restaurant White Peacock, which quickly became a meeting place for creative minds. The name of the bar refers to his nickname, "White Peacock," symbolizing not only his pride and refinement but also his inner drive toward beauty and perfection.
Legacy
Josef Meister's life is the story of a man who battled inner demons, creative crises, and the expectation of inspiration's return. His contribution to the development of music education and experimental music in Germany is immeasurable. He was not just a teacher or musician — he was someone who inspired and supported a new generation of musicians, passing on his love for music and harmony.
