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X-Drive: The Band Behind the Anthem "Erika"

Formation and Early Years

In the late 1990s, a group of young German musicians with a shared passion for military history and hard rock formed the band X-Drive. The founding members included vocalist and guitarist Lutz Lecht, bassist Sven Selke, drummer Christian Reimann, and guitarist Torsten Taubert.

Rise to Prominence

X-Drive's breakthrough came in 2003 when they released their debut album, "Feast of the Vain." The album featured the song "Erika," a traditional German marching song that became an instant hit. The catchy melody and patriotic lyrics resonated with audiences across the country, propelling the band to stardom.

Challenges and Controversies

X-Drive's success was not without its challenges. The band's patriotic imagery and the use of military symbols in their music drew criticism from some quarters, who accused them of glorifying violence and fascism. The band members maintained that their music was purely historical in nature and did not endorse any political ideology.

Discography

X-Drive has released a total of seven studio albums, including:

* Feast of the Vain (2003)
* The Sinister Art (2004)
* Idols of War (2006)
* Warlords of Metal (2008)
* The Age of Metal (2012)
* Metal Revolution (2014)
* We Are Warriors (2017)

The band's music has been praised for its powerful vocals, thunderous guitars, and soaring solos.

Members

The current lineup of X-Drive consists of:

* Lutz Lecht - Vocals, Guitar
* Sven Selke - Bass
* Christian Reimann - Drums
* Marcel Niemann - Guitar (joined in 2015)

Legacy

X-Drive remains one of the most popular hard rock bands in Germany. Their signature song, "Erika," has become an anthem for fans of military history and hard rock alike. Despite the controversies that have surrounded them, the band continues to release new music and tour extensively, captivating audiences with their energetic live performances.