The Absurd

A very eclectic group formed 1984 in Cologne, Germany by founding members Michael Frank (4), Martin Eichler and Manfred Meurer (2). The only steady member and mastermind is Michael Frank (4). Uncounted line-ups and quite a few off-shoots during the decades. Each incarnation could sound like a totally different group. Quotation from the band's web site: "From the beginning THE ABSURD was conceived as a band that would play any type of music the members liked, irrespective of whether a certain type was fashionable or not. The musicians involved in THE ABSURD include(d) people professionally playing classical and new music, expert jazzers and rock musicians." Live appearances often involve guest artists, art actions, comedy, and theatrical performances. The most active years possibly were 1986 to 1994, featured by a core line-up of Michael Frank (4), Yoyo Röhm and Michael Hausmann. In the new Millenium, the concerts became rarer but the line-ups became larger, up to 10-piece "big bands" on stage. To this day the group continues to do one concert a year minimum.