We are thrilled to kick off our label endeavors with one of the rarest and simultaneously best-recorded independently released German new wave singles in history: "Jede Nacht derselbe Traum" by Total.

Let's face it: Life can sometimes play unfairly, and the success of a band or a track might hinge on just a single day, a single moment, or – in Total's case – a single meeting:

Back in late 1983, Total found themselves in a pivotal rendezvous with CBS Records in a Frankfurt hotel lobby. The entire band was present, along with the esteemed NDW manager Jim Rakete, who had played a role in launching Nena to national and international stardom. Also in attendance were the A&R representatives from CBS. It was on this day that Total was presented with the opportunity to ink an album deal with CBS. However, since they had only recorded the titular song thus far, negotiations hit a snag. CBS insisted on a full album rather than a standalone single.

"Jede Nacht derselbe Traum" [ "The Same Dream Every Night" ] itself is a fusion of diverse musical styles. Crafted using the Oberheim OB8 system, complete with the DMX drum machine and a bassline woven from a Jupiter 8 keyboard, it carried a groove reminiscent of New York's electro hip-hop sound in "The Message," setting it apart from typical German new wave productions. Additionally, a Korg Polysix was integrated, and guitar effects were layered to finalize the infectious synth-pop instrumental. Newcomer to the band, Andrea Ströbel, laid down a flawless vocal layer that steered the song towards a straightforward NDW direction, giving it a resonance that surely resonated with mainstream and radio audiences. Believing in the song's potential, the band invested more resources to amplify the already substantial production. In a subsequent session, a captivating cello segment was woven into the break. To complete a B-side for the original vinyl single, the decision was made to employ the state-of-the-art L480 Lexicon reverb, which came at an additional cost. In the more experimental "Maxi Mix," now known as the "Dub Mix," Mannschreck expertly manipulated the machine. The outcome stands as a historical example of incredible studio craftsmanship and the cutting-edge techniques of the 80s.

For the new 12" release, Mannschreck unearthed an alternative mix of the song on the original tapes, featuring a distinct introduction, break, and exciting edits. In addition, DJ Friction, who contributed to the transfer and mastering for the release, treated us to a superb edit that cleverly melds all versions of the song while incorporating a few extra bassline groove elements.

But returning to the heart of the matter: Did Total perhaps give up too soon on releasing the song through a larger label? Ultimately, the band decided to independently issue a limited run of the single under Mannschreck's Schreckschuss label in January 1984. These vinyl copies became their currency for pursuing record deals and promotional prospects. The band had unwavering belief in their potential and even relocated from southern Germany to Berlin Kreuzberg, dedicating themselves to establishing a foothold there. Within the music scene, band leader Maisenbacher developed connections and, intriguingly, nurtured a strong admiration for Nena. This connection wasn't mere coincidence, as Maisenbacher was involved in a business venture with Carlo Karges, Nena's guitarist's brother, who also owned a frequented bar.

Despite the potential of "Jede Nacht derselbe Traum" to achieve commercial success and garner radio airplay, the song and the "Total" project gradually waned from the music landscape. A limited number of vinyl copies were available through Burkhardt Seiler's renowned Zensor distribution, while some were disseminated via Mannschreck's mail-order service. Nevertheless, most copies either found their way into the hands of band members or experienced deterioration and neglect over time.

Original 7" copies were pressed on green vinyl and originally lacked a sleeve. The band enclosed most copies in a thin plastic wrap adorned with a sprayed TOTAL stencil, resulting in a unique appearance for each copy. Regrettably, only a few have managed to endure over time. This NDW “holy grail” may have prompted a fair share of dreams for serious vinyl collectors, as to this day, not a single physical copy has been put up for sale on platforms like eBay or Discogs. Interestingly, Maisenbacher has even fielded an offer of over 400 Euros for an original copy, although he regretfully couldn't fulfill the request due to possessing just a single copy himself.

The captivating reissue cover spotlights vocalist Andrea Ströbel, who gazes with determination. A hand reaches out to grab her shirt, attempting to pull her down. Symbolizing the song's theme, it embodies the unsettling dream conveyed by the lyrics—yet she steadfastly resists. The photographs, including a more casual bathroom snapshot on the back cover, were captured by Thomas Maisenbacher himself and originate from a rare press folder.

In summary, we are elated to present a significant gem for vinyl enthusiasts: a splendid mid-tempo tune that dances on the boundary of synth-pop, new wave and electro. The new 12" single underwent meticulous mastering, and the outcome is nothing short of astounding, surpassing the sonic quality of the original pressing.

TRACKLIST:

1. Jede Nacht derselbe Traum [Single Version] 03:51
2. Jede Nacht derselbe Traum [Extended Re-Mix] 04:35
3. Jede Nacht derselbe Traum [DJ Friction Edit] 04:41
4. Jede Nacht derselbe Traum [Dub Mix] 05:01