In such a mood, a literary figure writes a war poem. A pianist composes an intermezzo in a minor key. A painter creates a monochrome sheet with ink. And the band Belgrad produces a debut with songs about interpersonal relationships and loneliness, war and loss. Without pathos or kitsch, but instead with sensitivity and the freedom to think and question things differently in order to find adequate musical expression. Belgrad was founded in early 2015 by Hendrik Rosenkranz and Leo Leopoldowitsch, who had previously worked together, while on a multi-week trip through Eastern Europe. They were joined by Stephan Mahler and Ron Henseler. Living in Berlin, Dresden, and Hamburg, and artistically socialized in various subcultural scenes, the four musicians – who before meeting were active in bands such as Stalin vs. Band, Dikloud, Slime, Torpedo Moskau, and Kommando Sonne-nmilch – each have their own unique perspective on the world. But contradictions also offer opportunities. And these led to a self-produced album that tackles difficult topics with ease. Moving, memorable, and independent of pretensions and attitude.