Band Members

biography

Anshelle - All In and Playing For Keeps

There comes a point in the timeline of any band or musician where you decide you’re going to quit, become a weekend warrior, or go All In.

Anshelle have chosen the latter, announcing their decision with confidence. Their new album, All In, shows a band that continues to evolve artistically in the midst of an ever more complex world. Vocalist and lyricist Michѐle Bachmann digs deeper than ever into the depths of her soul, giving a performance that’s breathtakingly personal and vulnerable, yet full of a quiet confidence. The band crafts arrangements around her that blend Anshelle’s distinctive pop sensibilities with an edgy, post-pop aura that sucks you in. Whether you’re into edgy rock and roll (“Two More Miles To Vegas”, “Ghost Town”), lushly scintillating adult pop (“I Can See Your Beauty”, “Running Back To You”, “Diving Into The Night”) or singularly emotive ballads (“I Wanna Try”, “My San Francisco”), Anshelle finds a way to capture your attention.

“I Can See Your Beauty”, the first single from All In, makes a distinct impression; showing off Anshelle’s edgy feel and pure pop disposition in a finely crafted bit of modern pop/rock songwriting. Full of hope for tomorrow amidst the wreckage of the present day, “I Can See Your Beauty” is socially, lyrically and musically uplifting. Driving the song is the voice of Michѐle Bachmann, who owns one of the most distinctive voices in pop music. Bachmann evokes thoughts of Chrissie Hynde (Pretenders) and Sharleen Spiteri (Texas), while retaining a sound that is wholly her own.

Anshelle has been on a slow build in the nine years they have been together. The Berne, Switzerland quintet’s first national acknowledgment came in the form of a 2006 nomination for a Swiss Pop Award. Since then they have seen real chart success, with their most recent album, Betty’s Garden, peaking at #31 on the Swiss charts. But Anshelle’s reach quickly became international as well, with the band playing at such well-regarded events as the Montreux Jazz Festival, Gampel Open Air and Blue Balls Festival. Anshelle has also garnered three awards from Toronto Exclusive Magazine: Best International Pop Song - 2007 (“Rewind Please”); Best International Pop Group – 2007; and Best International Rock Album – 2010 (Betty’s Garden.)

For All In Anshelle has gotten back to their Indie roots while continue to develop their sound and style. Moving forward sans label, the band focused on making music for the fans that have supported them all along. Anshelle is determined to creation their own art, their own way. It’s working. All In is the band’s most sonically stunning album to date, evoking the highs and lows of life in artistically honest and musically accomplished songwriting. The level of intensity on All In is something you have to hear to believe. Anshelle doesn’t just declare their intention with the album title – they live it within every single song on the album.

Anshelle have reached new artistic heights on All In, but it would be hard to call it a peak. Pick up the new album or catch them live and you’ll agree – this is a band that’s still growing artistically and as performers. There’s just no telling how high they’ll fly. One thing is for certain, it’s an ascent that any fan of truly inspired pop/rock music will not want to miss.

facts

2010 Toronto Exclusive Magazine Award
"Best International Rock CD Album" (Betty's Garden)
2009 Album Charts #31
Album Betty's Garden
2007 Toronto Exclusive Magazine Award
"Best International Pop Song" (Rewind Please) & "Best International Pop Group"
2007 Swiss Top Band September
Best Swiss Talent
2007 Album Charts #74
Album Rewind Please

Band Members

Michèle Bachmann, vocals Michèle is the heart and soul of the band. With her never-ending drive to push the band to its maximum, she is the motor, the soul and the creative direction of Anshelle. With her gift to create an intimate atmosphere she throws the words right into the heart of the audience. You need to experience a live show to see what that means.

Sandro Marretta, keys Sandro is the backbone and mind of the band. He composes such wonderful songs as "I Can See Your Beauty", "Oh Life", "Crossroads", "Little Mountain" and "Soulmate". His charming appearance and gift for wonderful keyboard sounds make you feel welcome at every concert.

Phil Küffer, bass Phil is the brain and spirit of the band. He is responsible for pushing the sound of the band towards new dimensions and is the writer of songs like "Two More Miles to Vegas", "Ghost Town", "Slightly Underdressed", "Borderline" and "I'm Alright". He isn't afraid to try out new ways and is constantly trying to improve the band's work towards perfection.

Martin Kissling, drums Martin is the lungs and heartbeat of the band. With his never-ending energy he is pushing every aspect of the band life towards new goals. His rhythm and groove is responsible for the typical Anshelle sound and you feel and see his love for the music at any Anshelle show. Blood, sweat and tears guaranteed!

Marc Hügli, guitars Marc is the naturalness and balance of the band. His exquisite guitar playing is a signature to many Anshelle songs. With his virtuosity and calmness he is the perfect link between all the band members on stage.

Patrick "Klopfi" Klopfenstein, mix Klopfi is the ears and insurance of the band. He shapes the musical idea of the band and mixes the perfect sound on any show. There is no show without Klopfi!

Bengi Schaller, backline Bengi is the feet and good soul of the band. Whenever there is a problem he's already fixed it even before anyone else knows about it. There is no show without Bengi!

Chris Blum, lights Chris is the eyes and dream weaver of the band. He brings alive the musical idea of the band with his master skills in colors, shape and light design. There is no show without Chris!

Official photos