OBSCURA have published a statement confirming that they are pursuing both criminal complaints and civil claims in Germany over what they describe as defamatory and unlawful publications — and that the matter is considerably wider than any single incident.
The band do not name anyone. The context is not hard to locate: founder and frontman Steffen Kummerer was publicly accused of using song parts written by former members on the band's latest album, "A Sonication". Former guitarist Christian Münzner, who aired those allegations in early 2025, said at the time that he intended to explore legal action.
"Since February 2026, criminal complaints and applications for prosecution have been filed in Germany concerning several individuals in connection with publications and conduct which we consider to contain defamatory, insulting, factually inaccurate or otherwise potentially unlawful content," the statement reads. "In parallel, civil legal steps are also being pursued in relation to the losses and other legal claims arising from these matters."
The scope is the part worth reading twice. "For the avoidance of doubt, these matters do not concern a single incident. The material submitted to the relevant authorities relates to publications and conduct dating from 2015 to the present day, including disputed factual allegations concerning OBSCURA and its members, copyright and intellectual property matters, the publication of personal information, and other conduct which we have asked the competent authorities to examine under German law."
OBSCURA also say the damage has spread past the band. "Several international companies and professional partners have also been affected, including companies which have reported receiving threats or other forms of improper pressure in connection with these matters. Some have suffered significant financial losses and are providing relevant information and supporting documentation to the competent authorities."
One concrete consequence is a border, not a courtroom. The band cite "significant difficulties in obtaining the necessary visas for performances in China" as a direct result of the public allegations, and say they have submitted supporting evidence to the authorities handling it.
The closing request is for everyone else to stand down. "We respectfully ask our fans, media representatives, business partners and fellow musicians not to contribute to speculation, personal attacks or further public disputes concerning these matters. We believe they should be dealt with through the established legal process. Please do not mistake allegations published online for established facts."
That is where the band intend to leave it. "We will therefore refrain from making further public statements regarding the substance of these matters whilst the relevant legal processes are ongoing."
The statement ends on a line that will either read as a plea or a slogan depending on where you already stand: "Listen to music, not allegations."
Nothing in the statement has been tested in court. These are filings and claims, not findings.