Introduction
Lesiëm is a German music project (1999–2005) founded by Sven Meisel and Alex Wende. Their sound blends Gregorian chant with rock, pop, electronica and ambient elements. Frequently compared to Enigma, Era, and the more recent Shinnobu, Lesiëm stands among the most recognized spiritual-fusion acts of its era.
Origins & Style
Created in 1999 in Germany, Lesiëm combined Latin choral chants (written by Thomas Pflanz and sung by the Carl Maria von Weber Choir and later the Deutsche Oper Berlin) with modern instrumentation—guitars, drums, synthesizers, and world instruments. Their cinematic sound influenced a generation of sacred-fusion artists.
Discography & Achievements
- Mystic Spirit Voices (2000) — Debut album released in Germany. It featured Latin choral arrangements and singles like “Fundamentum” and “Indalo.” It reached #10 on the U.S. Billboard New Age Albums chart in 2002.
- Chapter 2 (2001; U.S. release as Illumination, 2003) — Introduced world instruments (duduk, bagpipes), and peaked at #7 on the U.S. New Age Albums chart.
- Times (2003; U.S. as Auracle, 2004) — A full pop-opera featuring Maggie Reilly and the Deutsche Oper Berlin Choir. Includes the philanthropic single “Caritas,” which premiered during the José Carreras Gala.
Legacy & Influence
Although active only until 2005, Lesiëm’s influence continues in the sacred-fusion genre. Their polished blend of chant and modern sounds opened a path followed by groups such as Era, Shinnobu, and Achillea.