BAP is a German rock band. With thirteen albums reaching the number one in the German record charts, BAP is one of the most successful rock acts in their home country. Nearly all of BAP’s lyrics are written in Kölsch, the dialect of Cologne, or more precisely in a Kölsch-influenced derivation of Eifelplatt, a regional variant of the Ripuarian language spoken in the nearby rural Eifel. Niedecken’s most prominent musical influences, especially early in his career, were Bob Dylan, the Kinks, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones and Wolfgang Ambros.
The group was founded in 1976 under the name Wolfgang Niedecken’s BAP in Cologne by Wolfgang Niedecken and Hans Heres.
BAP was the first major German band that I have seen live since I arrived in Germany. Not sure how many people beside me were there in the sold out show at the Lanxess arena (about 14,000 people), who didn’t understand 99% of what they singing about. With lyrics out of the way I could pay more attention to the sound and the quality of the show. If the group would have been an American band I would call the style ‘heartland rock with a touch of folk rock’, lots of storytelling in the lyrics and lots of storytelling between the songs. There were references of the origin of some songs, most notable song for me was Bob Dylan’s ‘Hurricane’. The band kicked of playing Dylan’s song then morphed into their own song what was inspired by it, which at the end was quite different melodically. Another Dylan ‘Like A Rolling Stone’ inspiration came along, this time keeping close to the original songs melody. Those 20 seconds were the most rhythmical moments of the concert as in general the BAP songs don’t reach the same BPM. You could feel the professionalism of the band all along the concert. The 3 hours show sound mix was first class and the volume perfect to enjoy it without earplugs.
The packed arena was all into it, lots of singalongs and cheering. The average age of spectators, about 50-70 with some exceptions.
This was a huge homecoming for the biggest ever musical act of Cologne,Wolfgang Niedecken being the only original member of the band in today’s lineup.
The concert was repeated next day at the same location, I’m pretty sure a sold out show too.
I attached below a video collage shot on my phone for a general feel of the show.
