AEMEN... a story apart
According to the critics, the alternative Dutch group AEMEN plays a fresh and very captivating mix of guitar rock from the nineties, mixed with sounds from the sixties. Melodic rock with symphonic influences. AEMEN is not only the name of the band, but also the name of an imaginary child who lives in her own dream world. Her fantasies about life, nature and death are a source of inspiration for the poetic lyrics.
The first album, ‘The day the angels cried’ (1997) was recorded in RS29 in Waalwijk and produced by Oscar Holleman (Within Temptation, Ayreon, The Gathering, Kovacs, Krezip). A wide range of instruments including saxophone, didgeridoo, sitar, congas and a choir give this production an absolute added value. The title of this concept album refers to a dramatic event that took place in the Scottish town of Dunblane in March 1996, in which sixteen children lost their lives. The title track ‘The day the angels cried’ was released in memory of this tragedy. The beautiful saxophone solo supported by a large choir leads you to an emotional finale. Beyond your imagination, beyond your dreams!
With ‘The day the angels cried’ AEMEN has released a remarkable debut album. The reviews and airplay speak for themselves: “Excellent, quality goods from first cut to last!” (PROGRESSION), “The result is impressive and has more depth than many British pop bands” (MUSIC MAKER). “One of the great promises for 1998 and far beyond!” (OOR).
The second album ‘Fooly Dressed’ (2002) was again recorded at RS29. Stephen van Haestregt (Within Temptation) is responsible for the production. The compositions and arrangements have become even more refined and mature. A string orchestra and various acoustic instruments give the production ‘the finishing touch’. The theme of this album concerns the world and its transience, a theme that is still very topical today. A timeless album! Guest contributions are by Fay Lovsky (Theremin and Singin Aaw), Marc van Daal (Uilleann Pipes) and Sharon den Adel (vocals). The collaboration with Den Adel resulted in the single and video clip ‘Time’ and a second duet on the song ‘Waltz’.
Once again, the reviews in the national and international music press are very good: “All eleven songs are gems of craftsmanship” (HEAVEN), “a high-quality product of international class” (OOR), “One of the best Dutch releases of 2002” (ALOHA). AEMEN was invited to play for national radio and various festivals. The single ‘Time’ gets a lot of airplay and even makes it into the charts!
On December 18, 2004, AEMEN gave a farewell concert at Poppodium Willem Twee in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. With guest musicians such as Sharon den Adel, Jan Terpstra. The DVD ‘Live is a Magic Theatre’ (2006) was released of this strong performance. It contains 13 live songs, a live CD and many extras.
This document again receives excellent reviews in the music magazines: “The DVD shows the five musicians in top form” (REVOLVER), “Beautiful total document” (OOR).
In 2024, AEMEN will return to a sold-out Poppodium Willem Twee and will once again provide a resounding performance. They will close the year at Plein79 in ‘s-Hertogenbosch with the announcement that they will be working on a new album! “For the record, we just took a 20 year vacation”!
AEMEN are:
Toine van der Meijden – vocals, guitars, piano
Roland van Heesch – drums
Maarten van Iersel – lead guitars
Emiel Dingemans – bass guitar
Edwin van den Brand – keyboards (< 2004)
Marco Hoogerheide – keyboards (> 2006)