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Showing posts with label Interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Interview. Show all posts
Monday, 16 January 2012
Thursday, 12 January 2012
The Curious Incident – Interview
Interview by: Ezelle Louw
That is right, this London based band has decided to grace our sunny shores for what promises to “rock your socks off”. With a very unique Afro / Latin sound these guys promises to entertain, introduce you to unique vibes and show you a good time.
Band members consists of Kyle (Lead vocals, Rhythm Guitar and Percussion), Jack (Lead Guitar and Backing Vocals), Diaz (Drums and Percussion) and Francesco (Bass, Keyboard and Backing Vocals). They took some time out of their packed schedule to talk to us and give us a taste of what we can expect. To the Capetonians who didn’t catch their shows here, they promised to be back as long as we invite, while the rest of SA can still look forward to a couple of shows. Keep your eyes open for The Curious Incident coming to a venue near you.
1) Are you guys excited about touring in South Africa? Have you toured here
before?
It's our first South African Tour and we can't wait to play to some ravenous SA audiences!
2) Are you planning some sightseeing while you are here? If so , what do you have in
mind?
To be in, and not see, this country would be a crime. When ever we're not playing shows or hustling for the shows we'll be sight seeing. We've already done some running up Lion's Head and have driven all around the Atlantic Seaboard. We are also going to have a little sleepover on Table Mountain when we're back from the rest of the tour.
3) Which of the band members is born in SA? Is it good to be back?
Kyle: Me :) Its amazing coming back and being able to do what wel ove here. This country is just so sexy and so full of amazing people. I'm glad that I can finally show the rest of the band that I haven't been falsely hyping up SA from London!
4) Tell us who is the brain child of forming The Curious Incident? How did it
happen?
Diaz: Kyle started the whole thing rolling in SA with an eye to a move overseas. The initial band members didn't share that focus so Kyle had me hunt down some conspirators in London. The band officially restarted in London with all new band members in January 2010 so we've just had our first anniversary. We kept the name, some of the songs, oh yeah, and we kept Kyle.
5) For you as a band, who are your greatest musical influences?
We all take inspiration from random corners of life and music but as a collective we're influenced by the 60s (Led Zep, early Santana, The Doors) as well as their influencers from early soul and real R&B. Latin and African music play a massive part in our music as well.
6) Your band is named after Mark Haddon’s much acclaimed novel, “The Curious
Incident of the Dog in the nighttime”. Why so?
Jack: Kyle needed a name when starting up initially and he needed one quickly. His bookshelf came in handy. It seems to capture the mixed-bag, eclectic nature of our band quite well.
7) Which gigs are you most excited to play in SA?
All of them?! We're hoping to seduce a wider audience with our performance on MK Studio 1 on the 19th of Jan.
8) What can we look forward to in your performances?
Diaz: And I quote a fan who recently had an altercation with Kyle's stage-diving foot - "Some next level insanity!”
Francesco: And we think she meant it in a good way!
Kyle: We like to keep things interesting, both in how we perform and in the diversity of our music.
9) You’ve just released your self-titled EP. Tell us what inspired you guys during it’s
making and its vibe?
It's got a little of each of the 3 cornerstones of our music: the Afro, the Latin and the Rock.
In terms of the album artwork, there's a big nod to one of our favorite film's - Old Boy. Our EP is currently up on our Web Store (http://thecuriousincident.spinshop.com/) for pre-order. The real deal should be done by the end of Feb once our perfectionist designers finish the cover art.
10) Is there a song on the EP that really stands out for you? If so which one and
why?
Definitely Sangoma. It's our stage favorite as well and we love its underlying (or overt?) mania.
11) What is the best thing about being on stage and performing in front of a
cheering audience?
Kyle: When everything clicks into place you can feel the energy of the band and the energy of the crowd come together and become this beautiful monster.
Francesco: It's addictive!
12) Do some of you still get nervous to get on stage?
Jack: Good nervous
13) What is your best gig as a band that you‘ve played so far?
Diaz: Zula Bar the other night was amazing! The crowd's positive feedback for our first official show in SA overwhelmed the feedback from a petulant sound system.
14) Describe in short, your unique sound as a band?
Short - A Motown-loving African Mars Volta with dashes of Led Zep, QOTSA & early Santana churned into the energetic power of a thousand stampeding elephants.
Shorter - a mixed-bag band of multinationals fighting modern rock conventions with their Leopard/Snake Rock
Shortest - AFRO/LATIN/ROCK
15) How do you differ from other bands? What makes you unique?
Kyle: We're not trying, consciously or sub-consciously, to be another version of some already famous band. It's hard to be original - we're just trying to steal from others as surreptitiously as possible ;)
Jack: The way we mash different influences together and the energy that we serve it with seems to set us apart from many other bands.
16) Who would you like to share the stage with?
[in unison] LED ZEP!
Kyle: A duet with Etta James or Howling Wolf or Ray Charles would go down a treat as well!
17) Biggest moment(s) you have experienced as a band?
#1 Being selected to play at Canadian Music Week!
# 2 Having the crowd try and drag us from the stage (in a good way) at a show in London. The atmosphere was electric!
18) Tell us something we would normally not know about each band member? Spill
guys!
Diaz's mild OCD becomes exponentially more compulsive when it comes to housecleaning.
Francesco is only confident on the surface and, as a secret introvert,only likes crowds when he sees them from the stage.
Jack makes hip hop beats and epic film music in his spare time.
Kyle played Danny in Grease and, as one of his many hair experiments, had pink and black corn rows. [Not at the same time!]
19) If you dare to say, what is your most embarrassing moment as a band,
presuming there is any?
That time we gave an embarrassing answer to that question probing about our most embarrassing moments
20) If we haven’t seen you on stage before, what would you say to us, to inspire us to
attend one of your gigs?
Kyle: The way all our elements come together at a live show is something that my biased self has not witnessed at any of the hundreds of concerts that I have been to. In the now famous words of John Travolta: "It's electrifying!"
21) After your SA tour, you are off to North America? Tell us more?
We've been chosen to play at Canadian Music Week in Toronto in March and we're giddy with excitement! The festival has acts from all over the world coming to showcase to potential fans and industry so it is a fantastic opportunity for us to get seducing. This is our first chance to get over to Northern America and is also a great foundation to build more tour dates around.
22) Can we look forward to a full length album soon?
Diaz: Before thinking about the album, I would like to expose our forthcoming EP to as many people as possible by touring and promoting it for about a year or so. But as it stands, we're always coming up with new and crazy material, so I definitely look forward to recording them and having a selection headache in terms of song inclusion for the full length album.
23) Are there any drawbacks for you guys, being musicians?
Diaz: You tend to come across people with a slightly negative attitude towards aspiring musicians e.g., that it isn't a realistic ambition, you won't put food on the table, you need to be very lucky, and so forth. And I can imagine how this sometimes affects and upsets musicians in their pursuit of a professional career. So the way I go about it is to simply ignore them and believe that, with hard work,when you have a goal, you can and will score.
Francesco: Nice football metaphor there D.
Jack: The only one I can think of, having studied music, I tend to think a lot of stuff is crap. When I listen to a band I know when they're playing something that hasn't really been thought out and I can pick up on most mistakes instantly. Seeing bands with two guitarists playing the same thing infuriates me; where is the imagination it that! In saying that, it's only increased my respect of bands that do things well, almost to obsessive levels.
24) Which bands have you shared the stage with, that you are proud of?
We've played stages that have previously been graced by PaulMcCartney, BB King, The
Rolling Stones and Radiohead.
In terms of bands that we've actually played on the same night as… (wink)
Diaz: Canadian hip-pop-hop band, Down With Webster who put on a great show
Kyle: Will & The People accompanied by a professional Burlesque dancer
at Madame JoJo's in London!
25) Is there a huge difference in playing in front of a crowd in London and a crowed
in South Africa?
So far we've only played 2 shows in SA… We'll get back to you at the end of the tour ;)
26) Where does the inspiration come from to write your songs? Who is the writer of
the band?
Up to this point, Jack and Kyle have shared the majority of the writing duties.
Arrangement, for the most part, gets everyone's tuppence and what starts as one idea often gets built and rebuilt until its full potential is discovered.
Kyle: Inspiration can come from anywhere - even some questionable political youth league actions have trickled across the pond as inspiration for Curious songs.
27) Where can we get a hand on your latest EP?
At the moment, two of our songs are being re-mixed to meet our quality control standards. Until they're done you can pre-order (the digital or physical) EP from our Web Store (http://thecuriousincident.spinshop.com/) our buy a "redemption card"at one of our concerts.
28) Do you guys enjoy studio time?
Jack: Studio time has a far greater reputation than it deserves.It's very glamorized. When you're at the sort of level Red Hot Chilli Peppers were at with their recording of 'Blood Sugar Sex Magik' (check the film Funky Monks) or Led Zeppelin with Led Zep 4, then recording would be an awesome experience. More success will give us more freedom with things like studio time and the way in which we record, that's when the studio fun will really begin.
Kyle: So far we've been on super tight budgets when it comes to our studio time. We were lucky to be given an amazing deal and got our first taste of real studio time at Dairy Studios in Brixton where giants such as Muse, Florence & The Machine and Bloc Party have recorded.
Diaz: Apart from the lack of oxygen, I LOVE spending time in the studio!
29) We hope you guys enjoy your tour here in sunny SA! Will you guys come back
on a regular basis?
Francesco: As long as you'll keep having us, we'll keep coming!
Diaz: Only as long as you keep interviewing us ;)
30) Strangest request you’ve had from a fan? If there is any?
Kyle: I was asked outside our Zula show to give that person something, anything that belonged to me. They then turned down the lint from my pocket (which was all I had to offer) and suggested the clothes off my back instead. Hmmm
Jack: If you could call groupies "fan's" then I could give you a few…
31) How would you guys describe each other’s personalities in the band? Do you guys
differ a lot?
Francesco - The Dreamer
Diaz - The Cleaner
Kyle -The Schemer
Jack- The Ripper
Jack: Kyle and Diaz are much more involved in the organization side of the band, Fran and I are the hippies, though on a good day I'm found somewhere in between the two.
Diaz: We all have very different personalities, background/culture, and are influenced by varied styles of music. As a result have different interests outside of the musical vision and ambition that we thoroughly share.
32) What do you guys do in your spare time, if not making music?
Kyle: What spare time? ;)
Diaz: I like to watch a lot of soccer/football and spend time with my playstation. When the location/ weather permits, outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and traveling.
Jack: I think if you're serious about being a musician it's not just something you do, it's something you are. So in my spare time when I'm not making music...I'm probably making music.
That is right, this London based band has decided to grace our sunny shores for what promises to “rock your socks off”. With a very unique Afro / Latin sound these guys promises to entertain, introduce you to unique vibes and show you a good time.
Band members consists of Kyle (Lead vocals, Rhythm Guitar and Percussion), Jack (Lead Guitar and Backing Vocals), Diaz (Drums and Percussion) and Francesco (Bass, Keyboard and Backing Vocals). They took some time out of their packed schedule to talk to us and give us a taste of what we can expect. To the Capetonians who didn’t catch their shows here, they promised to be back as long as we invite, while the rest of SA can still look forward to a couple of shows. Keep your eyes open for The Curious Incident coming to a venue near you.
1) Are you guys excited about touring in South Africa? Have you toured here
before?
It's our first South African Tour and we can't wait to play to some ravenous SA audiences!
2) Are you planning some sightseeing while you are here? If so , what do you have in
mind?
To be in, and not see, this country would be a crime. When ever we're not playing shows or hustling for the shows we'll be sight seeing. We've already done some running up Lion's Head and have driven all around the Atlantic Seaboard. We are also going to have a little sleepover on Table Mountain when we're back from the rest of the tour.
3) Which of the band members is born in SA? Is it good to be back?
Kyle: Me :) Its amazing coming back and being able to do what wel ove here. This country is just so sexy and so full of amazing people. I'm glad that I can finally show the rest of the band that I haven't been falsely hyping up SA from London!
4) Tell us who is the brain child of forming The Curious Incident? How did it
happen?
Diaz: Kyle started the whole thing rolling in SA with an eye to a move overseas. The initial band members didn't share that focus so Kyle had me hunt down some conspirators in London. The band officially restarted in London with all new band members in January 2010 so we've just had our first anniversary. We kept the name, some of the songs, oh yeah, and we kept Kyle.
5) For you as a band, who are your greatest musical influences?
We all take inspiration from random corners of life and music but as a collective we're influenced by the 60s (Led Zep, early Santana, The Doors) as well as their influencers from early soul and real R&B. Latin and African music play a massive part in our music as well.
6) Your band is named after Mark Haddon’s much acclaimed novel, “The Curious
Incident of the Dog in the nighttime”. Why so?
Jack: Kyle needed a name when starting up initially and he needed one quickly. His bookshelf came in handy. It seems to capture the mixed-bag, eclectic nature of our band quite well.
7) Which gigs are you most excited to play in SA?
All of them?! We're hoping to seduce a wider audience with our performance on MK Studio 1 on the 19th of Jan.
8) What can we look forward to in your performances?
Diaz: And I quote a fan who recently had an altercation with Kyle's stage-diving foot - "Some next level insanity!”
Francesco: And we think she meant it in a good way!
Kyle: We like to keep things interesting, both in how we perform and in the diversity of our music.
9) You’ve just released your self-titled EP. Tell us what inspired you guys during it’s
making and its vibe?
It's got a little of each of the 3 cornerstones of our music: the Afro, the Latin and the Rock.
In terms of the album artwork, there's a big nod to one of our favorite film's - Old Boy. Our EP is currently up on our Web Store (http://thecuriousincident.spinshop.com/) for pre-order. The real deal should be done by the end of Feb once our perfectionist designers finish the cover art.
10) Is there a song on the EP that really stands out for you? If so which one and
why?
Definitely Sangoma. It's our stage favorite as well and we love its underlying (or overt?) mania.
11) What is the best thing about being on stage and performing in front of a
cheering audience?
Kyle: When everything clicks into place you can feel the energy of the band and the energy of the crowd come together and become this beautiful monster.
Francesco: It's addictive!
12) Do some of you still get nervous to get on stage?
Jack: Good nervous
13) What is your best gig as a band that you‘ve played so far?
Diaz: Zula Bar the other night was amazing! The crowd's positive feedback for our first official show in SA overwhelmed the feedback from a petulant sound system.
14) Describe in short, your unique sound as a band?
Short - A Motown-loving African Mars Volta with dashes of Led Zep, QOTSA & early Santana churned into the energetic power of a thousand stampeding elephants.
Shorter - a mixed-bag band of multinationals fighting modern rock conventions with their Leopard/Snake Rock
Shortest - AFRO/LATIN/ROCK
15) How do you differ from other bands? What makes you unique?
Kyle: We're not trying, consciously or sub-consciously, to be another version of some already famous band. It's hard to be original - we're just trying to steal from others as surreptitiously as possible ;)
Jack: The way we mash different influences together and the energy that we serve it with seems to set us apart from many other bands.
16) Who would you like to share the stage with?
[in unison] LED ZEP!
Kyle: A duet with Etta James or Howling Wolf or Ray Charles would go down a treat as well!
17) Biggest moment(s) you have experienced as a band?
#1 Being selected to play at Canadian Music Week!
# 2 Having the crowd try and drag us from the stage (in a good way) at a show in London. The atmosphere was electric!
18) Tell us something we would normally not know about each band member? Spill
guys!
Diaz's mild OCD becomes exponentially more compulsive when it comes to housecleaning.
Francesco is only confident on the surface and, as a secret introvert,only likes crowds when he sees them from the stage.
Jack makes hip hop beats and epic film music in his spare time.
Kyle played Danny in Grease and, as one of his many hair experiments, had pink and black corn rows. [Not at the same time!]
19) If you dare to say, what is your most embarrassing moment as a band,
presuming there is any?
That time we gave an embarrassing answer to that question probing about our most embarrassing moments
20) If we haven’t seen you on stage before, what would you say to us, to inspire us to
attend one of your gigs?
Kyle: The way all our elements come together at a live show is something that my biased self has not witnessed at any of the hundreds of concerts that I have been to. In the now famous words of John Travolta: "It's electrifying!"
21) After your SA tour, you are off to North America? Tell us more?
We've been chosen to play at Canadian Music Week in Toronto in March and we're giddy with excitement! The festival has acts from all over the world coming to showcase to potential fans and industry so it is a fantastic opportunity for us to get seducing. This is our first chance to get over to Northern America and is also a great foundation to build more tour dates around.
22) Can we look forward to a full length album soon?
Diaz: Before thinking about the album, I would like to expose our forthcoming EP to as many people as possible by touring and promoting it for about a year or so. But as it stands, we're always coming up with new and crazy material, so I definitely look forward to recording them and having a selection headache in terms of song inclusion for the full length album.
23) Are there any drawbacks for you guys, being musicians?
Diaz: You tend to come across people with a slightly negative attitude towards aspiring musicians e.g., that it isn't a realistic ambition, you won't put food on the table, you need to be very lucky, and so forth. And I can imagine how this sometimes affects and upsets musicians in their pursuit of a professional career. So the way I go about it is to simply ignore them and believe that, with hard work,when you have a goal, you can and will score.
Francesco: Nice football metaphor there D.
Jack: The only one I can think of, having studied music, I tend to think a lot of stuff is crap. When I listen to a band I know when they're playing something that hasn't really been thought out and I can pick up on most mistakes instantly. Seeing bands with two guitarists playing the same thing infuriates me; where is the imagination it that! In saying that, it's only increased my respect of bands that do things well, almost to obsessive levels.
24) Which bands have you shared the stage with, that you are proud of?
We've played stages that have previously been graced by PaulMcCartney, BB King, The
Rolling Stones and Radiohead.
In terms of bands that we've actually played on the same night as… (wink)
Diaz: Canadian hip-pop-hop band, Down With Webster who put on a great show
Kyle: Will & The People accompanied by a professional Burlesque dancer
at Madame JoJo's in London!
25) Is there a huge difference in playing in front of a crowd in London and a crowed
in South Africa?
So far we've only played 2 shows in SA… We'll get back to you at the end of the tour ;)
26) Where does the inspiration come from to write your songs? Who is the writer of
the band?
Up to this point, Jack and Kyle have shared the majority of the writing duties.
Arrangement, for the most part, gets everyone's tuppence and what starts as one idea often gets built and rebuilt until its full potential is discovered.
Kyle: Inspiration can come from anywhere - even some questionable political youth league actions have trickled across the pond as inspiration for Curious songs.
27) Where can we get a hand on your latest EP?
At the moment, two of our songs are being re-mixed to meet our quality control standards. Until they're done you can pre-order (the digital or physical) EP from our Web Store (http://thecuriousincident.spinshop.com/) our buy a "redemption card"at one of our concerts.
28) Do you guys enjoy studio time?
Jack: Studio time has a far greater reputation than it deserves.It's very glamorized. When you're at the sort of level Red Hot Chilli Peppers were at with their recording of 'Blood Sugar Sex Magik' (check the film Funky Monks) or Led Zeppelin with Led Zep 4, then recording would be an awesome experience. More success will give us more freedom with things like studio time and the way in which we record, that's when the studio fun will really begin.
Kyle: So far we've been on super tight budgets when it comes to our studio time. We were lucky to be given an amazing deal and got our first taste of real studio time at Dairy Studios in Brixton where giants such as Muse, Florence & The Machine and Bloc Party have recorded.
Diaz: Apart from the lack of oxygen, I LOVE spending time in the studio!
29) We hope you guys enjoy your tour here in sunny SA! Will you guys come back
on a regular basis?
Francesco: As long as you'll keep having us, we'll keep coming!
Diaz: Only as long as you keep interviewing us ;)
30) Strangest request you’ve had from a fan? If there is any?
Kyle: I was asked outside our Zula show to give that person something, anything that belonged to me. They then turned down the lint from my pocket (which was all I had to offer) and suggested the clothes off my back instead. Hmmm
Jack: If you could call groupies "fan's" then I could give you a few…
31) How would you guys describe each other’s personalities in the band? Do you guys
differ a lot?
Francesco - The Dreamer
Diaz - The Cleaner
Kyle -The Schemer
Jack- The Ripper
Jack: Kyle and Diaz are much more involved in the organization side of the band, Fran and I are the hippies, though on a good day I'm found somewhere in between the two.
Diaz: We all have very different personalities, background/culture, and are influenced by varied styles of music. As a result have different interests outside of the musical vision and ambition that we thoroughly share.
32) What do you guys do in your spare time, if not making music?
Kyle: What spare time? ;)
Diaz: I like to watch a lot of soccer/football and spend time with my playstation. When the location/ weather permits, outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and traveling.
Jack: I think if you're serious about being a musician it's not just something you do, it's something you are. So in my spare time when I'm not making music...I'm probably making music.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Paarl De Ville Battle of the Bands winner: The Mysticcs
Interview by: Jaco Brill
 |
| Vetman design and photography |
The Mysticcs is a 3-piece Blues Rock band based in Cape Town, South Africa and was formed in March 2011. In a short period of time, The Mysticcs have received a very positive response from a variety of audiences in and around Cape Town. The band has won the 2011 Niva King of the stage and recently signed a record deal with Niva Records their style and sound is driven by Blues Rock with a modern edge to it.
Members:
Mo Jones - Bass
Ebi Johnstone - Vocals/Guitar
Dean Roberts - Drums
The Mysticcs won the grand prize at Battle of the Bands - Paarl De Ville and took home:
5 Track EP recording at Coffee Stained Vinyl Studios
Photo shoot, logo design, EP Cover design, tshirt design by Vetman design and photography
Interview with Tygerburger
Interview with Cape Town Music Scene
Opening gig in Bohemia for one of the big name bands
PR Contract from Pistol Star PR
Video Shoot from The Neon Kartel Pictures
Party bus trip sponsored by the venue, Paarl de Ville
When entering the competition, what did you think your chances were?
We were very postive that we had a high chance of winning .
Who did you see as your biggest competition in the battle?
All the bands that we went up against did really well so its quite hard to say who was our biggest competition
Why the double c in the name?
The reason why we have a double c? Its because it is a silent c Google "The Mysticcs" and you will c what we mean.
 |
| Gino Urbanski |
Future plans? Anything specific?
We plan on touring South Africa!
Favourite gig and band played with so far?
Our favourite gig was at Zula bar, we shared a stage with two of our favourite bands.
Taxi violence and The Plastics.
What's you take on the music scene in cape town in general?
We work hard at what we doing and we want to share our music with people. the most important thing for us is that we want to make good music and we want people to feel what we feel with our music.
 |
| Gino Urbanski |
 |
| Gino Urbanski |
 |
| Gino Urbanski |
 |
| Vetman design and photography |
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| Vetman design and photography |
Friday, 9 December 2011
Out of Nowhere Interview
Posted by: Ashley Brown
Interview by: Ezelle Louw
They hail from our neighbour country Namibia and they are here to rock our socks off from 10
December 2011 to New Years. Members consists of Stephen Slabbie Slabber (Vox), Adam Kirby
(Drummer), Wilde Willie (Lead Guitar), Conrad Rust (Rhythm Guitar) and Ramon le Roux(Bass).
These five guys come here ready to entertain and make us headbang until we can’t feel our necks
anymore. Talented, dedicated and full of passion, these guys create metal tunes that will leave
you hanging for more. They recently released their single “ Surface”, go have a listen on http://
www.reverbnation.com/outofnowherenam. You won’t be disappointed. The guys took out of their
busy schedule so we can get to know them a bit better before they hit our area.
When and who formed Out of Nowhere?
Out of Nowhere was Stephen’s brainchild.
Tell us about the process of putting together the band? Was it difficult to find members best
suited for the band?
Out of Nowhere originated as a side project by members of different bands. It took about a year to
find the final five members forming the band as we know it today.
Why the name Out of Nowhere?
The name seemed to describe the way the band came together and took off, and describes the unique
style that resulted from our individual tastes in music.
Which musicians/ bands has had a huge influence on your music and why?
Well, Killswitch Engage were pioneers in a style of metal we really appreciated and feel that they
share a special kind of band chemistry, as well as amazing stage presence and performance.
Breaking Benjamin also made a lasting impression in the way every band member complements the
other.We also derived major inspiration from Parkway Drive’s must-watch documentary – their sheer
determination and motivation proved an inspiration on tour, only to mention a few...
Take one word to describe each band member?
Well, we’ll answer it in two ways, first of which how we would describe that member to anyone
outside the band, and second how we would describe that member among ourselves.
Stephen: Driven - Mr. Agro
Wille : Dedicated - Williekrokernosterfant
Conrad : Capable - What the ...?!!
Ramon : Ambitious - Cheeseball
Adam : Confident - Sloth
So you are touring SA in December? Excited to share your music with us? Where can we look
forward to see you?
Yes, yes we are. Yes, yes we are . We’re really looking forward to playing at Purple Turtle
(the Nightmare before Christmas gig – 24
th Dec) and Rock the River Festival over New Years.
You can have a look at our other gigs on our facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/
pages/Out-Of-Nowhere-Official-Fan-Page/109204112437940?sk=app_2405167945
You guys did a tour here in 2010. Are you amped to be back?
We experienced a fantastic reception on our last tour, and are looking forward to sharing our new
repertoire and standard.
Can we look forward to any new album releases soon?
We have released our first two tracks fresh out of the studio which will (hopefully) be the first
additions to our album due next year. Check em out on our page!
What inspires you guys to make metal the way you do?
We are grateful to have varying tastes on an individual level, while experiencing a mutual
appreciation for the composition of metal music which results in (what we feel to be) a very unique
sound.
So tell us, is the metal scene HUGE in Namibia?
We’re happy to see that it is definitely a growing scene, one which we’re proud to be a part of.
What can someone who hasn't attended one of your gigs expect? Prepare to be entertained?
We pride ourselves on our live performance – we give 110% at every show.
Do you guys "put" yourself in a specific musical genre?
If we had to choose, it would be Alternative Rock Metal as we cover a wide range of genres.
Best gig you've played so far? Why?
Namrock 2011 proved to be the biggest highlight for us – the feedback we got from the crowd and
fellow musicians was unrivalled.
Have you guys had an embarrassing moment on stage yet? Care to share?
Where to start... ?
... Ramon has fallen onto Adam’s drums on countless occasions, Stephen has attacked many a monitor
with vicious head-butts, and our last Halloween gig saw us all in boertjie shorts, veldskoene and
rugby socks – which was a first for every member except Willie...
Any crazy stalker fans yet?
There was this one guy...
Really love "Surface" , tell me more about the song?
The concept behind Surface was to be something abstract that would pull heartstrings – open to
interpretation...
So what do you guys do when you are not touring and making music for your fans?
We do all have full-time jobs (each and every one of which we hate) but between those, band practice
at least four times a week, recording and now our tour, it leaves little time for recreation – but we
wouldn’t have it any other way. We love music, and we’re happy to be so involved in our passion.
The people we’ve met and the support we’ve received along the way makes it all worth it!
Any advice for someone who hasn't seen one of your gigs?
Stretching exercises before the pit really make a difference.
So who writes your songs? You guys mix and match inspiration?
Hit the nail on the head there – our music is a team effort.
What is your favorite thing about studio time?
The best thing about studio time is you get to fine-tune, and appreciate what every band member
contributes individually.
It must be quite an effort to put a tour like this together? Hopefully you have a great team
behind you?
We must take this time to thank Ryno de Lange (Event Horizons) for all his input from the South
African side, and sisters Daniella and Anika Kohl for invaluable support.Without their help, this tour
would not have been possible.
Which SA bands have you shared the stage with?
The Parlotones, Fokofpolisiekar, Straatligkinders, Van Coke kartel, 12
th Avenue/Mark Haze to name a few.
Does the Namibian music scene help to promote local talent, like you guys?
No.
The ideal place where you guys would love to tour?
We would love to tour the States just to be able to say we did
Which show on your 2011 South African tour should we not miss?
We have something special for every show so …
What made you guys enter the music scene?
The love of music – every one of us.
Will you guys be making regular "pit stops" in SA?
Definitely – the support for music here is in the same league as our passion for making it. \m/
Interview by: Ezelle Louw
They hail from our neighbour country Namibia and they are here to rock our socks off from 10
December 2011 to New Years. Members consists of Stephen Slabbie Slabber (Vox), Adam Kirby
(Drummer), Wilde Willie (Lead Guitar), Conrad Rust (Rhythm Guitar) and Ramon le Roux(Bass).
These five guys come here ready to entertain and make us headbang until we can’t feel our necks
anymore. Talented, dedicated and full of passion, these guys create metal tunes that will leave
you hanging for more. They recently released their single “ Surface”, go have a listen on http://
www.reverbnation.com/outofnowherenam. You won’t be disappointed. The guys took out of their
busy schedule so we can get to know them a bit better before they hit our area.
When and who formed Out of Nowhere?
Out of Nowhere was Stephen’s brainchild.
Tell us about the process of putting together the band? Was it difficult to find members best
suited for the band?
Out of Nowhere originated as a side project by members of different bands. It took about a year to
find the final five members forming the band as we know it today.
Why the name Out of Nowhere?
The name seemed to describe the way the band came together and took off, and describes the unique
style that resulted from our individual tastes in music.
Which musicians/ bands has had a huge influence on your music and why?
Well, Killswitch Engage were pioneers in a style of metal we really appreciated and feel that they
share a special kind of band chemistry, as well as amazing stage presence and performance.
Breaking Benjamin also made a lasting impression in the way every band member complements the
other.We also derived major inspiration from Parkway Drive’s must-watch documentary – their sheer
determination and motivation proved an inspiration on tour, only to mention a few...
Take one word to describe each band member?
Well, we’ll answer it in two ways, first of which how we would describe that member to anyone
outside the band, and second how we would describe that member among ourselves.
Stephen: Driven - Mr. Agro
Wille : Dedicated - Williekrokernosterfant
Conrad : Capable - What the ...?!!
Ramon : Ambitious - Cheeseball
Adam : Confident - Sloth
So you are touring SA in December? Excited to share your music with us? Where can we look
forward to see you?
Yes, yes we are. Yes, yes we are . We’re really looking forward to playing at Purple Turtle
(the Nightmare before Christmas gig – 24
th Dec) and Rock the River Festival over New Years.
You can have a look at our other gigs on our facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/
pages/Out-Of-Nowhere-Official-Fan-Page/109204112437940?sk=app_2405167945
You guys did a tour here in 2010. Are you amped to be back?
We experienced a fantastic reception on our last tour, and are looking forward to sharing our new
repertoire and standard.
Can we look forward to any new album releases soon?
We have released our first two tracks fresh out of the studio which will (hopefully) be the first
additions to our album due next year. Check em out on our page!
What inspires you guys to make metal the way you do?
We are grateful to have varying tastes on an individual level, while experiencing a mutual
appreciation for the composition of metal music which results in (what we feel to be) a very unique
sound.
So tell us, is the metal scene HUGE in Namibia?
We’re happy to see that it is definitely a growing scene, one which we’re proud to be a part of.
What can someone who hasn't attended one of your gigs expect? Prepare to be entertained?
We pride ourselves on our live performance – we give 110% at every show.
Do you guys "put" yourself in a specific musical genre?
If we had to choose, it would be Alternative Rock Metal as we cover a wide range of genres.
Best gig you've played so far? Why?
Namrock 2011 proved to be the biggest highlight for us – the feedback we got from the crowd and
fellow musicians was unrivalled.
Have you guys had an embarrassing moment on stage yet? Care to share?
Where to start... ?
... Ramon has fallen onto Adam’s drums on countless occasions, Stephen has attacked many a monitor
with vicious head-butts, and our last Halloween gig saw us all in boertjie shorts, veldskoene and
rugby socks – which was a first for every member except Willie...
Any crazy stalker fans yet?
There was this one guy...
Really love "Surface" , tell me more about the song?
The concept behind Surface was to be something abstract that would pull heartstrings – open to
interpretation...
So what do you guys do when you are not touring and making music for your fans?
We do all have full-time jobs (each and every one of which we hate) but between those, band practice
at least four times a week, recording and now our tour, it leaves little time for recreation – but we
wouldn’t have it any other way. We love music, and we’re happy to be so involved in our passion.
The people we’ve met and the support we’ve received along the way makes it all worth it!
Any advice for someone who hasn't seen one of your gigs?
Stretching exercises before the pit really make a difference.
So who writes your songs? You guys mix and match inspiration?
Hit the nail on the head there – our music is a team effort.
What is your favorite thing about studio time?
The best thing about studio time is you get to fine-tune, and appreciate what every band member
contributes individually.
It must be quite an effort to put a tour like this together? Hopefully you have a great team
behind you?
We must take this time to thank Ryno de Lange (Event Horizons) for all his input from the South
African side, and sisters Daniella and Anika Kohl for invaluable support.Without their help, this tour
would not have been possible.
Which SA bands have you shared the stage with?
The Parlotones, Fokofpolisiekar, Straatligkinders, Van Coke kartel, 12
th Avenue/Mark Haze to name a few.
Does the Namibian music scene help to promote local talent, like you guys?
No.
The ideal place where you guys would love to tour?
We would love to tour the States just to be able to say we did
Which show on your 2011 South African tour should we not miss?
We have something special for every show so …
What made you guys enter the music scene?
The love of music – every one of us.
Will you guys be making regular "pit stops" in SA?
Definitely – the support for music here is in the same league as our passion for making it. \m/
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Next level interview met Jack Parow
Posted by & interviewed: Ashley Brown
Watse edge het die nuwe CD "Eksie Ou" en wat is anders as die vorige een?
Well, ek dink deur hierdie laaste 2 jaar van toer ens het ek baie geleer,so dis miskien bietjie meer gegroei as my vorige een. Daars ook 'n nuwe paar next-level ouens op van die tracks soos PH Fat, David Kramer, Gazelle en Sibot. Ja, persoonlik hou ek baie meer van die nuwe een en dink dis voller en 'n beter afrgronde album. Marchand en Manni het ook n blerrie kief job gedoen met die cover, lyk next-level.
Watse liedjie op "Eksie Ou" is jou gunsteling?
Fok, ek weet nie, dis moeilik, as mens aan die tracks werk is dit gewoonlik die laaste een wat jy gedoen het, want jy sit ure met elke track, so op die oomblik is dit seker laat ons suip of hos tokolosh of maybe afrikaans is dood of wag, ek dink hard partytjie hou of biscuits & biltong!
Francois Van Coke en Pierre Greeff werk weer saam op die nuwe CD, hoekom dink jy is hierdie kombinasie met Jack Parow so suksesvol?
Ons is mos ou chommies, so ek dink dit werk net goed want ons ken mekaar so goed, so dit mash net altyd lekker saam omdat ons al so baie goed saam gedoen het. Dis mos ma die boerwors curtain boys, kom vannie selfde jol af.
Behalwe vir Francois en Pierre feature P.H. Fat, Haezer en Sibot, vertel ons hoe dit was om saam met die manne te werk.
Elke track wat ek gedoen het was kak baie pret,want soos pierre en franie,is al die mense op my album chommies, oud en nuut, maar steeds goeie chommies, so ja,ek het obviously mense gekies wat ek wil mee werk, so dit maak altyd alles makliker
Gazelle en Jack Parow klink na 'n snaakse kombinasie, maar elkeen van julle het uitstekende colabarations tot dus ver gehad, vertel ons van julle track saam?
Yes, ek en Gazelle het die track HOS TOKOLOSH saam gedoen, dis die eerste single op my album. Dit was 'n gesamentlike proses waar ons 'n track saam create het wat amazing uitgekom het. Daar is actually twee versions, een vir my album en een wat op Gazelle se album gaan verskyn. Dan gaan ons ook in die nuwe jaar n huge campaign rondom dit doen met videos, merch en lekke goeters, so kyk uit. Was amazing om saam met hulle te werk, want dit was heeltemal n brein storm saam en nie net 'n feature track nie wat dit altyd kak cool maak
Jy doen 'n liedjie saam met die legende David Kramer, hoe was dit om saam met hom te werk en wat het jy geleer uit hierdie ondervinding?
Nerve-racking at first,want hy is obviously 'n hero van my,so ek was baie nervous, maar toe ek hom ontmoet en saam begin werk was dit so lekker, hy is 'n amazing musikant en mens en die proses was so gemaklik en lekker en mens kan dit hoor in die track, dit het baie lekker uitgekom
Wat is jou inspirasie om liedjies te skryf en volg jy enigsins n ritueel as jy skryf?
Ag, nie regtig n ritueel nie, ek skryf maar net wat in my kop in kom, dit kan by 'n party wees of in die bad, dit gebeur maar net so, as mens dit try forseer dan klink jou musiek geforseer dink ek, so ek skyf maar as dit kom. My inspirasie is dus maar net alles wat rondom my gebeur elke dag.
Wie gaan ons hoor as ons in jou kar sit?
Op die oomblik die nuwe Van Coke Kartel album, like hom kwaai, hys op repeat in my kar, lekke hard, lekke afrikaans, lekke lekke
Luister jy ooit na jou eie musiek?
Haha, nee, nie regtig nie, dis n baie lang proses om 'n album te create en dit goed te kry, so teen die tyd wat die album uitkom het ek elke track al seker 1000 keur gehoor en dan begin ek dit nog live speel ook, so as ek dit nog luister ook sal dinge miskien bietjie mal raak. Dit maak my ook baie ongemaklik as my track opkom in n bar of club of whatever,weet nooit wat om te doen nie, moet mens gan sit, moet mens wat doen...haha...like dit nie baie nie
Kan jy enige instrumente speel?
Nope,maar ek probeer nou leer hoe om bekfluitjie te speel,like dit kak baie
Stres jy nog voor 'n show?
Nie regtig so erg met my ou songs nie, maar nou dat ek 'n nuwe album uit het en nuwe tracks doen stress ek nogal erg, dis mos maar 'n nuwe vibe, nuwe lyrics ens, so ja, dis nogal nerve racking, altyd bang ek fok iets op
Waar is jou favourite plek om op te tree?
Jis, ek weet nie, festivals is lekker altyd, soos bv oppikoppi, Rocking The Daisies, RAMfest ens ma ek like elke show, klein, groot, vol, leeg, dis altyd net n kak lekker vibe om musiek te maak vir mense wat amped is vir dit. Ek ook die eer gehad om nogal baie oorsee te toer, dit is ook kak lekker, nuwe plekke, nuwe energy en nuwe mense, gooooood times!
Om 'n lewe te maak in die musiek bedryf is nie maklik nie, wat volgens jou was jou deurbraak?
Uithouvermoe...haha...maar regtig, dit het 10 jaar gevat en glo my, daar was BAIE tye wat ek amper dit gelos het, maar aanhouer wen soos hulle sê.
Voordat jy bekend geword het as Jack Parow, watter werkies moes jy doen om die rekeninge te betaal?
Heavy kak enes... Ek het by surf shops gewerk, vis gelaai in n visfabriek (ek eet nie seekos nie, hou niks daarvan nie, so dit was baie kak) en dan het ook selfs in die cemetery division gewerk by cape metropolitan council en grafte vir mense gegee... Yip, nie die beste werk gedoen nie, maar was alles deel van n proses om te kom waar ek wil wees
Wie is Jack Parow as hy by die huis is?
Maar pretty much dieselfde, ek like van n dop klap, n chop op die kole slat en lekke jol anvat.
Behalwe rap het jy n braai sous en 'n klere reeks, Parowphernalia, vertel ons meer hiervan en waar mens dit kan koop?
Op die oomblik is die braaisous available by Checkers in die Weskaap, ma sal soon landswyd beskikbaar wees en die klere en actually die braaisous, nuwe album en al die lekke dinge is available op my chommie, The Greek Merchant se site. Dis ma alles net lekker goed om te doen,die sous is amazing en as iemand dit proe en nie daarvan hou nie sal ek dit nie kan glo nie, want ek braai baie en daai sous loop.
Friday, 2 December 2011
3rd World Spectator Interview: Gauteng and more...
Posted by: Ashley Brown
We talk 3rd World Spectator about there tour to Gauteng, who they are, their CD and more
Introduce the members of 3rd World Spectator to the readers.
Peter Crafford - Vocals, Keys, Guitar
Justin Versveld - Lead Guitar
Andre Wentzel - Drums
Louis Kuhn - Bass, Backing vocals
3rd World Spectator’s CD is hitting shops nationwide, what can we expect from this CD?
Yes, it’s been a working progress for the last two years. We were fortunate enough to sign with
Universal Music South Africa, with the help of Benjy Mudie and countless others. As the album
name, The Theory of Everything, implies it isn’t as genre specific as one might expect. You’ll find an
epic piano ballad alongside a progressive rock tune, and then a few alternative pop-rock tunes in
between. Expect anything from epic atmospheric rock to hauntingly beautiful ballads.
Tell us a bit more about the tour through Gauteng and the support you received.
It was the first full-fledged tour that we as a band have been on. We were fortunate enough to
receive a lot of tour support from our label Universal Music, Southern Pulse and our manager Mike
Pocock. Mike helped us out with accommodation and traveling in and around Gauteng and is an
absolute champion.
Which performance on the tour made a lasting impression and why?
We hope to have made an impression at most of the shows on tour, but I think the shows we made
a ‘lasting impression’ at, was at Firkin, Centurion and Arcade Empire. We were very happy with the
sound engineering, and we had awesome crowds of students to perform to.
What band from the tour do you think suites 3rd World Spectator the most to gig with?
All our supporting acts, and bands we supported were great. We really enjoyed Alleen na
Desember, CrashCarBurn and Dance, You’re On Fire to single out acts from the group.
What are 3rd World Spectator’s plans now that you are back in the mother city?
We took a week or two off after tour just to resettle and debrief. We started working on finalizing
the music video structure and concepts with the directing company, Silverlining Pictures. We shot
the video last Tuesday (the 22nd) and we received the final product a week later. We are very happy with the final copy, and would like to give a big thanks to Padraic O’Meara, Renier Ridgeway, their
teams, and everyone else who made it possible.
We played a few shows in and around Cape Town, we actually have one coming up this Saturday at
Purple Turtle in Long Street. We also have a coast tour coming up after Christmas. In the new year
we’ll be playing loads of shows and touring the country in support of the album. Keep a look out on
our Facebook page for more details.
Tell us more of each member's characteristics and what role they play socially.
Peter is the master, yet geek of the band. He collects action figures, comics and works 8 to 5 as a
graphic designer.
Justin is a healthy blend of Keith Richards and Jack Sparrow. Enough said.
Andre is the personification of calmness and is totally zenned out, yet, very sharp and very
opinionated.
Louis is ‘slappin’ da bass’. Let the good times roll. He is also the newest member and youngest asset
to the band.
Do you as band think the new up and coming bands in Cape Town live up to what is expected from
the listeners?
I think the Cape Town scene has entered such an exciting period where we have a diverse selection
of bands happening. You have rockabilly bands and you have world class electro artists. As a
musician you have to up your game continuously to stay relevant, and that is great challenge.
What music do you guys listen to before a gig? Do you have a ritual before getting on stage?
Other than listening to an act that might support us on the night, we don’t really listen to music
before we get on stage. Pete and Louis always do vocal warm-ups, and then the usual tuning of
guitars.
How do you guys feel about drinking before you get on stage and drinking on stage?
We have nothing against it, we just don’t like to be associated with, or be known as a band who gets
drunk before a performance. Some might consider it as unprofessional or disrespectful to the die-
hard fans, as it is still your job as a performer give 110%.
If you could open for an international band who would it be and why?
There are so many bands we are influenced by, and strive to meet and maybe perform with one day.
It would have to be Muse, Foo Fighters, Radiohead, Thrice or 30 Seconds to Mars.
Monday, 28 November 2011
AudioPhile 021 Interview with CTMS
Posted by: Ashley Brown
Reading your biography it says you started with rock as genre and then slowly moved to electronic, explain this big transformation.
Growing up I was constantly surrounded by music. My mother is a very good pianist as was my grandfather and my father plays a fairly mean guitar.. Growing up I was exposed to all sorts of music from Beethoven to Cream and I was fascinated by how sounds fitted together and everything flowed together. I started playing the piano at age 6 and the flute at eleven both of which I continued until Matric. When I was thirteen I started learning the drums and that was when I realized that all I wanted to do was music. In high school I started playing in the schools Jazz band and that led to garage rock bands and a love for rock music fueled by the solid sounds of the 60's and 70's. I spent years fooling around in garage bands and consuming all the music I could, but I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something else out there that I was meant to do. somewhere around Standard 6(Grade 8) I remember The Prodigy - Experience came out and when I heard it I knew that electronic music was what I wanted to play and make..I was fascinated by the sounds and the rythm. It had everything I was looking for the rawness of rock and metal, with these psychodelic sounds and relentless multilayered beats.. I was hooked.
Many rock lovers don’t like electronic and say electronic artists are just pushing buttons, what would you say to this statement seeing that you came from rock?
I don't think that a lot of people realise the true complexity of electronic music. It is very easy to judge something if you don't truly understand it. I guess that the same could be said for someone who does not understand rock music watching a band.. At the end of the day music is music and if it affects you in any way then the artist has been succesful in their intention.
You studied at the Cape Audio Collage. Tell us a bit more about your studies and your experiences.
Cape Audio College was a turning point for me. It opened my eyes to the complexity and depth involved in producing music of all genres. Prior to studying at Cape Audio I was at Wits studying Dramatic Arts and although I was already producing my own music I had no idea just how little of the surface I had actually scratched. I was fortunate to be in the same class as both Greg Reve (Triplet of Belville) and Adam Metcalf (Headroom) so it really pushed me to suceed. After Cape Audio College I was doing live sound and programming and I was brought back into the fold at CAC as an instructor and I was responsible for redeveloping their Electronic Music Production Course and DJ Courses. I spent a very happy 6 years there.. I love that place and their main studio was for many years my second home.
In your opinion, is it necessary to study today to make a living in the music industry?
I think it is always important to study full stop. Especially if you are going to venture into such a niche industry like the Music Industry. In order to be truly successful you need to be better than your competition. One of my lecturers at WITS always used to say take a look at the people on your left and right.. They are not your friends they are your competition. It sounds harsh to say, but it is true. The industry is tough and unforgiving and you need all the smarts you can to give you an edge. Also there is a big difference between making tunes in your bedroom and actually working with clients in the industry...
What would you say to someone that wants to become a electronic artist like yourself, what is the first steps to take?
Just start doing it. It is amazing how much information is available to you. These days you have a number of Digital audio Workstations and instruments available to you, you have unlimited resources via the internet and dedicated monthly music publications like Sound on Sound and Computer Music. When you start writing you instinctivly think that what you just wrote is the sh*t, We all thought that, but the real learning comes from having the guts to put your music out there, to have it torn apart and then take all of the criticisms and suggestions and apply them constructively to your next track.. it is an ongoing process.
Why do most electronic artist work on Mac Laptops?
In my opinion Macs are just absolute work horses. They are stable and reliable and were designed to perform with high intensity operations like music, video and design. My Mac has been everywhere from the studio to Earthdance to Daisies. I look after it and it looks after me.
What has been your most memorable gig thus far and why?
I have two. Oppikoppi this year was mental. I played after Kid Fonque who is one of my favourite DJ's. The stage was sick and the system was off the hook and I got to take Saturday evening into Saturday night. I remember I was so into the set when all of a sudden Jake Lipman from Bteam popped up next to me handed me a beer and said look at that Stevie.. It was only then that I realised that the whole Koppie and dance floor were packed and everyone was just losing it!!!
The second was Earthdance also this year. I got to play one of the main sets and straight after SIBOT so I was super nervous.. I remember walking up onto stage just before Si finished playing and starting to set up and just seeing this heaving maelstrom of people.. It was an epic night..
You play a lot at The Assembly, what makes this venue different to others in your opinion?
The Assembly is like home to me. I really enjoy playing there, the sound is always fat and the crowd just loves to party. Also the intentions behind the club are honest and it really is a venue aimed at uplifting the music scene in Cape Town, providing a platform for established artists and helping to nurture young young talent
How do you go by making new material?
I find the production of new material to be a very organic experience. I often find that I have watched or read something that plants a seed of an idea.. All I know is that I feel the need to write music all the time.. Once I am locked in to a new track I will work on it exclusively until it is finished. I truly believe that everything you start should be finished and to be honest more often than not it turns out very differently from how you originally envisioned it.
How do you feel about mixing your own song from scratch comparing to remixing a international hit?
Mixing my own material is probably the most time consuming part of the creative process. I am super O.C.D when it comes to how my tracks sound and I think that I sometimes over think the mixes. I usually end up with seven or eight versions of the pre master before I am happy with it. The same applies to the mixes I do for clients and for the studio although it is a little harder because you have to combine the client or bands vision with your own creativity. Remixing for me is my escape, it is a way to keep work(if you can call it that) fun and challenging. I really enjoy taking a track and stripping it down to its bare essentials and then rebuilding it in my own way with my own flavor.
What artists do you love to perform with?
It's a long list.. But I have to say Sibot, he is an incredibly talented musician and his live show is mind blowing. Bteam because they always have so much fun on stage regardless. Mr. Sakitumi and Card On Spokes because they are exceptional multi talented musicians with phenomenal live shows. 7Ft Soundsystem because Yves is such a great producer, and then Haezer and Double Adapter simply for the fact that I always have an amazing time with them.
For those that don’t know AudioPhile 021, where can they get a taste of what to expect at a live show?
Music wise they can simply visit my soundcloud page. There are also videos scattered across the youtube etc. Bbut if you want a discription in a nutshell I guess you could say my sets start off like an episode of Wharehouse 13 and end up like a cross between Jurassic Park and Star Wars.
We know you are a DJ at night, but what is your day job?
I am the head engineer at Red Bull Studio in Cape Town, where I get to work with both established and emerging musicians to create unique cutting edge music. It really is an amazing job and I get to meet and work with some truly incredible people.
Any exciting news you can give us on AudioPhile 021?
I have a couple of cool colab projects on the go at the moment and I am also in the process of completing a number of remixes for various artists. However, the most exciting thing for me at the moment is not even music related. I am getting married in December and I am super excited.
Wednesday, 9 November 2011
Robots Get the Girls
Interviewed by: Ashley Brown
Robots Get The Girls interview with Cape Town Music Scene  |
| Robots Get The Girls: Scotty and Kyle |
Kyle: It’s just a fact!
Scotty: Yeah robots are sexy…
Kyle: We actually just read that 6 out of 5 girls find robots really attractive.
Scotty: We found that out thanks to the Census… No, we’re talking nonsense. The names just a private joke between this guy(Kyle) and I.
Kyle: And don’t ask what the joke is because then it wouldn’t be private!
Who are the members and what are the roles of each one?
Kyle: The Robots are Scotty and myself and on the production side you’ll hear the beats of Nicbeats(Dom Petersen) and live we’re joined by Chris Taylor on the decks and Mike Bakker on drums and samples.
Is there any plans for an album production in the near future? And do you have an idea for the name of the album?
Scotty: We started working on when we started Robots Get the Girls at the end of January earlier this year and we plan to release early 2012.
Kyle: And we’ll be announcing the name and concept of the album in the near future.
Who is the creative one writing lyrics for RGTG?
Kyle: Scotty and I both write the lyrics for Robots.
What artists are you guys listening to at the moment for inspiration or even just in general?
Kyle: For song writing and musical influence it’s a big mix… I draw from Mike Posner, 3oh3!, David Guetta, Glitch Mob.
Scotty: Yeah we like the same music so I’ll just add those amazing artists with guys like Skrillex, Cobra Starship, Calvin Harris, Example and Far East Movement.
Give a short description of each of your personalities for us?
Scotty: I’ll describe Kyle…He’s rude, selfish, obnoxious, begrudgenistic…
Kyle: I was going to say that you’re a nice guy…
Scotty: Hey I don’t want to lie dude!
Bands or artists that you would love to share the stage with?
Scotty: Wow, too many to mention…
Kyle: Actually just refer to our previous answer about our influences.
Tell us more about the Plus 1’s music video-the idea behind it, who’s in the video, where it was made, etc.
Scotty: It was an awesome video shoot to be a part of and we owe so much to Kyle Lewis, the Dirty Soul Production team and Black Static Media for the concept and really good execution of the video.
Kyle: They really did an awesome job and we’re really proud of it. Shot at a club in Claremont, Cape Town and we had the best looking features and extra’s in this video and let me add that everyone was so cool to work with…
Scotty: We literally don’t have a bad thing to say about the video!
Plus 1’s video has more than 11500 views (which is big), but RGTG haven’t even launched an album yet. How did you go about advertising the video?
Kyle: Haha, as you say that it’s just gone passed 19 000 views.
Scotty: And honestly we don’t know. As a ‘band’ or ‘music project’, whatever people want to call us, we’ve only been public for just under a month and the video’s only been around for two and a half weeks…so I’ll say again, we don’t really know.
Kyle: It was the first song we wrote as Robots, got to make an awesome video and what really helped was that Kfm 94.5 and Highveld Stereo 94.7 liked it and we got to launch it on Stacey Norman’s show live on air. Look we obviously showed it to friends & they must have shown their friends, posted on the new Robots facebook page aswell as YouTube which is all we could do.
Scotty: And within a few days it clocked a few thousand views.
Quick facts:
Oldest in the band:
Kyle: I’m the youngest by a month
Scotty: Which makes me the oldest…
Bands favourite drink:
Kyle and Scotty: Redbull!
Scotty: We wouldn’t be able to make it through some of the long nights in studio without it!
Bands favourite food:
Kyle and Scotty: Coco-Pops and Sushi.
Kyle: Haha, more things that we can’t do without in studio!
Coffee or Tea:
Scotty: Neither
Kyle: Coffee
Twitter names:
Kyle: @RobotKyle…and it’s a good question because I’ve been trying to get Scotty on Twitter for a while now.
Scotty: Yeah so my name is hash tag idontdotwittersogetoveritkyle…seriously though, that’s not my name so don’t try and add me.
Kyle: It’s ‘follow’ dude, you don’t add people on twitter.
Scotty: You know what I mean!
Go like ROBOTS GET THE GIRLS now on Facebook!
Follow Kyle on Twitter: @RobotKyle
Sunday, 30 October 2011
Yesterday's Pupil interview
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| Yesterday's Pupil / Peach van Pletzen |
Yesterday’s Pupil, how would you like people to describe what Yesterday’s Pupil was in the far off future looking back?
If people remember YP in the far off future that alone will make me happy. I want people to remember the music as being honest and sincere, I would like people to form a personal connection to my music and remember how it made them feel. I love music that stirs something within me and I hope to do that for other people.
In your Shameless-Self-Promo Clip you said that the new album will be released in parts, Part 1 being launched 1 November 2011, what can we expect of the new album?
Better production and better songs. This album is way more vocal than the previous one and I also concentrated more on the lyrics. Each song has its own story and I am proud of each one. The album is very diverse, there are hard songs and the are some soft ones as well, it doesn't stick to any one genre. Each song is its own unique little surprise package.
How many songs will be released with Singularity (Part 1)?
1 Nov 2011... download the Part 1 package, there will be more than just music in it :)
What is the most absurd thing you ever heard of yourself in the media?
That Christina Storm and I are in a relationship... absurd!
What was your childhood dream?
To make a success of whatever it is I land up doing and if not to be happy as a failure... ok more seriously though, I have always had a desire to make a difference or impact on other people's lives in one way or another through creativity and art... Other artists did that for me and still does on a daily basis and it is truly a powerful thing. Certain songs just have the ability to move people, everyone in their own unique way and that is awesome!
Yesterday’s Pupil, Bittereinder, Kidofdoom, Oorlog Frankenstein, collaborations with Tumi, and producing. How do you do it?
I really don't know, I think my love for it is so strong that it gives me the strength to keep going and to keep creating. Don't be fooled though it is not always easy, I get stressed out and fall into periods of creative blocks and all the usual shit, we live in a really fast paced world and sometimes one must just step out a bit and get some perspective, do something simple and primal, that is very important... I have been burnt out before and it is pretty damn kak! So nowadays I am trying to maintain a balance, spend some time on the little things, you know, just step out of the singularity and be alone for a while.
Give us an idea of a “normal” day in the shoes of Peach van Pletzen:
Wake up at about 7:30, 8ish. Do some E-mails and admin, there is A LOT of admin in this industry. Get some coffee and breakfast and hit the studio, I like mixing early in the day as your ears are still fresh from a nice quiet night's sleep, rested ears are important if you want to get a nice mix. Then usually I'm off to a rehearsal for 3-4hours, back to office for more admin. Shower, pack gear in the van, go to sound check, check sound, get dinner, back to venue and do the gig, pack up, have a few beers and go home and sleep. That sounds about right, but it differs a lot depending on what I am working and focusing on at the time.
Do you have any other hobbies besides music?
I love taking pictures! I take my little Canon G12 everywhere and I take great joy in tweaking and taking shots... it is really a nice camera. I enjoy it as it is something I can do purely for fun but still get to be creative.
You have one of the best ears for music. What tips would you give someone starting in the recording industry of South Africa?
Hahaha, thanks for that! :) Take care of your ears. Take your time in learning, but learn something new everyday, if you rush the process you will miss certain things. You will keep learning till the day you die.
Don't get caught up in too many plug-ins and toys, get the basics and master them and focus on the music rather than the fancy plugs and toys. SIMPLICITY IS KEY! Don't ever follow any scene, and never let a scene affect the way you make music, do what you love, don't imitate, create!
Listening to the song Too tired to Disco it comes across Yesterday’s Pupil has changed a bit from the last album, is it safe to assume that the new album has a whole new feel than the first one?
Yes it will be much different, but don't let "too tired to disco" fool you. That is just one song on the album and there is no other song on the record like it. Too tired to disco is also the most poppy tune on the album. There are some big songs on this album. I can't wait to share it with the world! People must just listen and form their own opinions, good or bad, whatever, just an opinion, but your own one.
In Too tired to Disco’s music video we see you waking up looking at a box robot, taking photos with it and holding its hand. Mind explaining the idea behind the video you made with Louis Minnaar?
Its like a coming of age story, it plays off in two different time periods. The present and the past. The dude in the present is longing back at something from the past, in a way he prefers the "old" him from a few years back... almost as though he has lost something along way, a piece of himself. I think it really works with the lyrics. The video is open for people to see it however they please, I am very happy with how it turned out and it was a super fun shoot!
The girl robot could be symbolic of technology and humans feeding off one another or it could be an imaginary friend of his, the dude could be a freak for all we know but the important thing is that people must be able to relate to him on some level...I hope...
When will Yesterday’s Pupil be visiting Cape Town?
I just got back from CPT, I played at Assembly last night at the halloween party, but I will be back soon!
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