Germany has long cultivated a robust underground scene for stoner and psychedelic music—second perhaps only to Sweden in the eyes of certain fans. Formed in 2020, HAUCH from Waltrop, Germany, has now contributed a fresh take on the genre with their first album, Lehmasche. These five tracks, released in April 2023, carry an intriguingly modern edge that merges high-octane riffs, sleek production, and German-language vocals into an energizing, groove-centric style.
April 21, 2023 / release date
Stoner Rock / Psychedelic Rock/ genre
Digital, CD, Vinyl/ format
Clostridium Records / label
Mixing & mastering by Robin ‘ROMBONAUT’ Stirnberg 2023
At first glance, the presence of German lyrics might catch English-speaking listeners off-guard, but the music’s universal power quickly takes over. Tracks like “Wind” and “Es ist” combine vibrant guitar lines with driving percussion, inviting comparisons to ’90s stoner rock outfits such as Monster Magnet—especially when the band adds a light dusting of spacey atmospherics. Each song has an underlying groove designed for headbanging as much as actual dancing, a trait HAUCH emphasizes in their Bandcamp tagline: “Stoner rock songs for banger, stoner, dancer & DJs.”
Although that description might sound unusual, the beats are indeed punchy and even borderline danceable at times. This doesn’t mean HAUCH is crossing into electronic or industrial territory—they’re riff-based through and through. But there’s a strong sense of momentum driving each track, helped by a clean, modern production that showcases guitar textures and vocals in sharp detail. Imagine kicking back in a smoky venue where the crowd nods in unison to every resonant chord and earth-shaking bass line.
Production
Recording took place in 2021, with mixing and mastering handled by Robin “ROMBONAUT” Stirnberg in 2023. The result is a crisp, full-bodied sound that allows each instrument to shine. Vocals by Ro (who also designed the album’s layout) rise confidently above the dense riffs, giving the tracks an anthemic quality. While some fans might prefer the ultra-fuzzy aesthetic of classic stoner rock, HAUCH proves that clarity and polish can be just as effective for delivering maximum impact.
Vinyl Release
Collectors have something to look forward to with the upcoming colored vinyl pressing of Lehmasche through Clostridium Records. The red-black marbled LP will be limited to 300 hand-numbered copies, complete with an LP-size insert and a band-logo sticker. For those who value physical formats, these extras enhance the album’s immersive effect: it’s a record meant to be turned up loud.
Stoner rock aficionados might be surprised by how smoothly HAUCH balances heaviness and catchy hooks. This record feels right at home blasting through a quality speaker system, whether you’re headbanging, dancing, or just zoning out to the resonant grooves. The band proves that innovative ideas can blend seamlessly with classic influences, offering a fresh angle on Germany’s already dynamic stoner scene. If you’re into thick riffs, a touch of space-rock swirl, and a sound that’s as dance-friendly as it is heavy, add Lehmasche to your must-hear list.
