Auf das Leben

Released in 2021, Auf das Leben marks a significant late-career statement from Wolfgang Petry, an icon of the German Schlager scene. While Petry had officially retired from his 'Wolle' persona years prior, this album sees him fully embracing the rock-inflected pop sound that made him a household name, albeit with a more mature, reflective lyrical lens. The album's title, which translates to 'To Life,' serves as a thematic anchor for 16 tracks that oscillate between high-octane party anthems and earnest power ballads. Musically, the record bridges the gap between traditional Schlager and 1980s-style heartland rock, utilizing a 'live' band feel that emphasizes Petry's signature raspy baritone. The inclusion of the extended 'Rattenscharf' solo highlights a blues-rock sensibility that distinguishes this project from his earlier, more disco-oriented hits. Critically, the album was noted for its authenticity and Petry's ability to maintain his 'man of the people' persona while updating his sound for a modern production standard. It solidified his status as a bridge between generations of German music fans.