In 1989, Stephan Groth and Jon Erik Martinsen formed Apoptygma Berzerk in Norway. They wrote several songs, one of them "Ashes To Ashes" would later be released as a 12" single on the Norwegian label Tatra Productions in 1991. Martinsen left the band shortly afterwards feeling uncomfortable with the direction of the band's music. Since then the band had many lineup changes, Groth being the only constant members.
Stephan Groth claims that the band name was randomly picked out of a dictionary. Apoptygma is an old Greek word for the fold of a woman's garment. Technically the 'y' ought to be pronounced like a long 'u', but the band's name is commonly pronounced a-pop-TIG-ma or a-pop-TEEG-ma.
Apoptygma Berzerk released six studio albums so far: Soli Deo Gloria in 1993, 7 in 1996, Welcome To Earth in 2000, Harmonizer in 2002, You and Me Against the World in 2005, and Rocket Science in 2009.
The first two albums, Soli Deo Gloria and 7 were a similar style of synthpop and EBM. Welcome to Earth featured an evolved EBM/synthpop sound. Harmonizer featured a softer, more synthpop-oriented direction. You and Me Against the World represented an almost complete change in style for the band, from EBM to indie rock-oriented sound. Rocket Science continued the rock-oriented direction of their sound.
They also released three compilations (The Apopcalyptic Manifesto in 1998, The Singles Collection in 2003 , Sonic Diary in 2006), three live albums (APBL98 in 1999, APBL2000 in 2001, Imagine There's No Lennon in 2010) and three live DVDs (APBL2000 in 2001, The Harmonizer DVD in 2004, Imagine There's No Lennon in 2010).
In total, the band issued six EPs: Victims of Mutilation in 1990, The 2nd Manifesto in 1992, Mourn EP in 1997, Unicorn EP in 2004, Black EP in 2006, and Green Queen in 2009.
List of former band members:
Jon Erik Martensen: keyboards (1989)
Per Aksel Lundgreen: keyboards/manager (1991–1994)
Anders Odden: guitars (1992-1999)
Geir Bratland: keyboards/backing vocals (1995-2009)
Fredrik Darum: producer/live guitarist (1999–2001)
Ted Skogmann: drums and guitar (1999–2002)
Fredrik Brarud: drums (2002-2009)
Audun Stengel (Angel): guitars (2002-2009)
Anders Odden: guitars (2003-2006)
Official site: http://www.apoptygmaberzerk.de
You Keep Me From Breaking Apart
Apoptygma Berzerk Lyrics
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And because you never left me behind
Saying thanks in my own way
I say it with a song that soon will fade away
You keep me from breaking apart
You understand the chaos in my head
Only you understand every word I say
You restore my soul and erase all hurt
You keep me from breaking apart
The lyrics to Apoptygma Berzerk's "You Keep Me From Breaking Apart" communicate a dependency and gratitude for a significant relationship. The singer acknowledges that they are "only here" because of this person who has never abandoned them. They express their thankfulness in "their own way," with a song that they understand will eventually dissipate. The song is addressed to the person who has been a stabilizing force in their lives, preventing them from "breaking apart" due to the "chaos" that exists within their mind. This chaos, however, is understood and accepted by the other person, who is said to comprehend their every utterance. This intuitiveness allows them to "restore the soul" of the singer and heal any source of hurt that only this individual can soothe. As such, the singer recognizes their vital role in their existence and thanks them for it.
The song seems to suggest the power of interpersonal bonds and the importance of having someone who understands and supports us unconditionally. The singer may be grappling with internal struggles that feel overwhelming, but they find solace and comfort in knowing that they have a steady presence in their lives. Moreover, the fact that the singer expresses themselves through music reflects not only their creative outlets but also the way that art can become a powerful means of communicating emotions when words are not enough.
Line by Line Meaning
I am only here because of you
My existence is tied to your presence and without you, I am nothing
And because you never left me behind
You have been my constant companion and support throughout my struggles
Saying thanks in my own way
I express my gratitude to you through my music and lyrics
I say it with a song that soon will fade away
Although my expression of gratitude is temporary, the sentiment behind it is forever
You keep me from breaking apart
Your presence shields me from falling apart and losing myself in despair
You understand the chaos in my head
You are the only one who comprehends the turmoil in my mind and heart
Only you understand every word I say
You are the sole individual who discerns the true meaning and intent behind my words
You restore my soul and erase all hurt
Your love and support bring healing to my very soul and erases all emotional pain
The hurt that only you can take away
The pain is so immense that it can only be relieved and healed by you
You keep me from breaking apart
Again, your presence and love are the only things that keep me from falling apart
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Joseph Grushecky
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind