|
|
| |
|
South African Music Zine edited by Sugar |
|
|
| SECTIONS |
| HOME |
| REVIEWS |
| CD Of The Week |
| LAGER MENTALITY interviews |
| MY BACK PAGES features and columns |
| LINKS |
| ARCHIVES News, New releases, CD of the week, Concerts and tours, Charts, Worth buying |
|
SA RECORD COMPANIES |
|
BMG,
David Gresham Records,
EMI,
Fresh Music,
Gallo,
MELT 2000,
Primedia Music,
Sheer Sound,
Sony Music,
Street Level,
Third Ear Music,
Rhythm,
Universal,
and USM
|
|
SOUND SOLUTIONS Looking for an album, song or musician? Got a question? Ask Sugar! |
|
|
|
Contents  
This week's contents: Editorial: The week in brief News: SA Klank website, Limp Bizkit postpone SA Tour, The Blue Heads, Cape Town Festival, 'Heaven And Hell', Drop Dead Gorgeous, The News, 'Urban' book series special. Charts: SA Rock Digest MP3 and Album Charts New Releases: New SA MP3's and CD's, Kalahari Surfers, Saturnine, Sitter, Duncan Faure, Polstar, Ubuntu Records, The Waldorf String Band, Bluescream. CD of the Week: 'Africa She Too Can Cry' - Hawk Classic SA Rock: USA For Africa; A Naartjie In The UK; Vinyl Junkies; South African Rock Lists Sound Solutions: A reader's forum - letters, info, questions and answers Live Music: Events round-up, SA Punk, Ubuntu Nites, RP Studios, SA Punk: Durango 95, The Knife Fight Fest, 'Station 70', Steve Louw and Big Sky. SA Music Links And Resources: Contact Details Editorial THE WEEK IN BRIEF Our sister bi-weekly publication, SA Klank, now also has its own regularly updated website at http://www.SAKlank.com ... Limp Bizkit's South African tour has been postponed ... The Blue Heads are a Johannesburg jazz ensemble, who are well-known for arranging and playing the musical compositions of Gerard Sekoto, the well-known South African painter and who will perform as part of the Spier Arts Summer Festival on Thursday March 11th 2004 ... local arts communities have rallied behind the Cape Town Festival which runs for nine days from 14 - 22 March. WickedRock.co.za is inviting all SA bands and artists to join their new South African indie CD project, called 'Heaven And Hell' ... Michelle Steynberg is bringing her band, Drop Dead Gorgeous, to Cape Town this week to promote their 'Melt With Me' album ... A recent request for info on The News and the Safari Suits has resulted in a new web presence for these two well-remembered SA bands. We have a bunch of new mp3's from some of the new releases on the African Dope label from artists like the Kalahari Surfers, Teba, and Chronic Clan ... There are also mp3's from the Durban bands, Saturnine and Sitter ... Duncan Faure has a new greatest hits CD just released ... Polstar is a Cape Town alt.folk ambient group who have just released their debut mini-album called 'Torn Pages' ... Peak Performances, in collaboration with Ubuntu Records will be releasing a Proudly South African 'must have' compilation album: a collection of audio and visuals to celebrate the 10 years of Freedom and Democracy. The Waldorf String Band is South Africa's premiere traditional Folk and Celtic music band and they have just released a new CD ... LAD reviews the new album called 'BlueScream' by Tully McCully's new band of the same name ... We take a closer look at the fascinating story behind the new Blue Heads project and the link to the life of legendary South African painter Gerard Sekoto ... And Bongo Maffin vocalist Thandiswa Mazwai has begun a massive search for musicians to join her backing band for the upcoming gigs to promote her new solo album. Ian Napier is in contact with Damo Suzuki, vocalist with the Krautrock band, Can, for 3 years in the early '70s, and these days involved in experimental/ alternative/ improvisational material, particularly live performances around the world. He has expressed an interest in performing in South Africa and Ian is looking for interested parties, lots on Damo and Can below ... LAD takes a stroll down 12th Avenue ... Kurt Shoemaker reviews the album, 'Soet September' by Spinnekop ... and John Samson looks back at Sugardrive's high point, their second album, 'Sand.Man.Sky'. We have more news from Ubuntu Records, this time about their upcoming 'Ubuntu Nites' concert with Amampondo and freshlyground ... Daniel Neville has news about the Durango 95 SA Tour and the upcoming 'Knife Fight Fest' (not what it sounds like...!) ... Steve Louw and Big Sky are at the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 22 February 2004 ... Brian Currin caught the new 'Station 70' show and was very impressed. There's also the usual weekly mp3 and album charts, recommended SA gigs, letters to Sound Solutions, Digest Classifieds, old SA charts, and what's new on the shelves at Mabu Vinyl and CD and Vibes Vinyl. And that is some of SA music, this week ... If you would like to contact us, please send an email to mailto:editor@sarockdigest.com?subject=Digest Thanks! Ed. ----------------------------
From Abstract Truth to Karen Zoid, from 'Astra' to 'Zen Boulders', from 'Ag Pleez Deddy' to 'ZX Dan'... visit the online archive for the history (and future) of South African Rock at: http://www.rock.co.za The SA Rock Encyclopedia is an archive of South African pop and rock music - past, present and future - and includes sections on classic albums, rock legends, rock lists, charts, trivia, family trees, a hall of fame, weblinks and more... ---------------------------- SAGIGS.COM The SA Rock Digest list of recommended gigs can now be found at: http://www.SAgigs.com If you cannot access SAgigs.com then e-mail gigs@sarockdigest.com and we will e-mail the gig guide to you each week. ---------------------------- SAKLANK.COM Sluit aan by http://www.SAKlank.com deur e-pos te stuur aan intekenaar@saklank.com Alle rasionele idees, gedagtes, bydraes, briewe en konsert-/CD-resensies is altyd welkom! ---------------------------- THE OFFICIAL RODRIGUEZ WEBSITE 'Cold Fact', the classic album from the 70s, as well as 'After The Fact', the second Rodriguez album, have been re-issued and both are now available at One World. http://www.oneworld.co.za All Rodriguez Info at: http://www.sugarman.org ---------------------------- SA ROCK DIGEST http://www.sarockdigest.com If you would like to receive all the SA music news on this page, as a free weekly Monday morning email newsletter with no attachments, then please enter your email address in the SA Rock Digest banner on the left. News
THE SA KLANK WEBSITE IS NOW LIVE SAKlank.com is the SA Rock Digest's sister publication which is in Afrikaans, and which focuses more closely on Afrikaans music. The SA Klank e-newsletter is edited by Carina "Katvrou" Laubscher and goes out to a subscribers' mailing list every second Sunday evening. The SA Klank website is now updated by Tuesday morning with artist pics, album covers and hyperlinks. The SAKlank.com website has, till now, merely been a place for readers to subscribe and contact the editor. But the website will now be updated every two weeks with the full HTML version of the current edition of the SA Klank newsletter for those who want the full-colour version with pics, CD covers, mp3's and links. All SA Klank back-issues are now archived on the SAKlank.com website as well. If you are interested to know what this week's top stories on SA Klank are, well, here they are, straight off the top of the website: SA KLANK UITGAWE #21 9 Februarie 2004 ======================= INHOUD ======================= NUUS: Fokofpolisiekar se Gauteng toer, Barry van Zyl en Nibs van der Spuy se CD "Hadeda" bekendstelling, Dan Patlansky en die Mississippi Muthers se planne vir Februarie, Drop Dead Gorgeous met Mich L in die Kaap, Koos Kombuis en Piet Botha se dinge, Kristoe Strauss gooi wyd, Anton Goosen se volledige musiekspyskaart, Prime Circle roer daai pot, Bra Piet Botha se optredes, Arno Carstens se New Porn in Roxy's, Tuks JOOL 2004, Steak & Ale se optredelys NUWE MUSO'S: 2B2 GIG-STORIES: Kaal in die Kaap, Jack Hammer in Steak & Ale, Gert Vlok Nel in die Blue Crane Restaurant CD-STORIES: "Diep Karoo" - Albert de Vos, "As Jy Met Vuur Speel Sal Jy Brand" -Fokofpolisiekar (uit Brixton Barnard se pen) LIRIEKE VIR JOU KOP: Anton Goosen, Kristoe Strauss, Albert de Vos OP DIE MP3 SPYSKAART: JULLE SÊ/VRA: Vetseun INLIGTING: Inteken, Redakteur Take a look at the website at http://www.SAKlank.com and add your name to the subscribers list. -------------- LIMP BIZKIT TOUR GOES LIMP Edgars, 5FM Music and Big Concerts regretfully announce the postponement of the upcoming Limp Bizkit South African tour. The tour, which was set to kick off in Cape Town on the 2nd of April, was postponed "due to unforeseen circumstances" according to the band's booking agent. The new dates for both South Africa and Dubai will be announced soon, and are likely to be in November this year. The American rock group, fronted by Fred Durst, have become one of the most influential bands in the heavy music scene and have sold close to 30 million records worldwide. They have scored a host of awards and number 1 hits, most notably 'Take a Look Around', the theme song to 'Mission Impossible 2'; 'My Generation', and 'Rollin'' off the album 'Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavoured Water'. Promoter Attie van Wyk, of Big Concerts, said: "Although we are extremely disappointed about the sudden postponement, we look forward to announcing the re-scheduled dates as soon as possible". Ticket holders can go to their nearest branch of Computicket for a full refund, and those who paid by credit card will be credited. For further refund information, please call the Computicket call centre on 083 915 8000. For further media information ONLY, please contact Michael at 021 422 3500/083 49 555 94 Mailto:michael@bigconcerts.co.za -------------- THE BLUE HEADS AT SPIER Thursday 11 March 2004 The Blue Heads are a Johannesburg jazz ensemble, formed under the auspices of the BMW Jazz Club, who will perform as part of the Spier Arts Summer Festival on Thursday March 11th 2004. The Blue Heads have risen to prominence by arranging and playing the musical compositions of Gerard Sekoto, the well-known South African painter, who lived as an exile in Paris from 1947 until his death in 1993. The nine-member band was formed early last year, drawing on talented jazz musicians and vocalists from South Africa and beyond, including singer/pianist Dimpie Tshabalala, drummer Isaac Mtshali (who has played with the likes of Stimela, Billy Joel, Paul Simon), guitarist Ntokozo Zungu and French Congolese singer Stanley Mwamba. Since 2003, The Blue Heads have played at several BMW Jazz Club-sponsored events and have also been given an opportunity to record an album via the BMG Africa label, as a result of this exposure. The name chosen for this diverse group of musicians pays homage to the "blue heads" style of Sekoto's 1960's era art, such as 'Woman's Head' of 1963. Gerard Sekoto's talents as composer, lyricist and musician (he played piano and guitar to eke out a living in the tough post-war economic climate in Paris) were only realized after his death. Author and Sekoto expert, Barbara Lindop, discovered the manuscripts in Sekoto's suitcase - a part of his returned estate - at the South African National Gallery in Cape Town. Many artworks and writings comprising his estate, were returned to South Africa in 1999, after protracted negotiations between the South African and French governments. There are twenty-six manuscripts comprising Sekoto's musical compositions, and although the songs were originally composed for a solo pianist, The Blue Heads have arranged them for a 9-piece band. The unique songs project powerful and heart-rending compositions, and reveal the poignant yet universal struggle for recognition and survival, of the artistic spirit in exile. In the last two years the BMW Jazz Club has acted as a platform to actively promote a number of local musicians, including Kesivan Naidoo, Siya Makuzeni and Thabo Mdluli, and The Blue Heads project adds an exciting dimension going into 2004. Their Spier amphitheatre performance on Thursday March 11will also feature a variety of popular South African jazz standards. This one-off show is not to be missed, and tickets are available NOW at Computicket. For more information regarding The Blue Heads Mailto:Lance.McCormack@bmg.com Read the full story about Gerard Sekoto and The Bkue Heads in the 'History' section below. -------------- LOCAL ARTS COMMUNITY RALLIES BEHIND CAPE TOWN FESTIVAL Arts lovers and cultural explorers can look forward to 9 days of exciting multi-sensory performances and artistic expressions in all imaginable forms. The festival runs from 14 - 22 March this year. Bringing together the best in arts, culture and entertainment that Cape Town has to offer, over a 9-day period, the Cape Town Festival has the potential to become the voice for the South African arts community. In recognition of this, the arts industry has positioned itself firmly behind the festival. "Collaborations with many of the city's formal arts entities, both public and private, are firmly in place", says Yusuf Ganief, CEO of the Cape Town Festival. "This festival is made possible because of the partnerships that have been created between the Cape Town Festival team and the different sectors of the arts industry." An enthusiastic Mr Ganief is encouraged by the fact that the festival is very much on track, thanks in no small measure to the efforts of the industrious festival team. The 2004 Festival has as its theme ten years of democracy and this will be celebrated through various platforms within the major components of the festival. Stimulating platforms to look out for are the Stage of Democracy, a platform for emerging musicians which forms part of 'Art in the Gardens' taking place in the Company Gardens. A myriad of different music genres and electrifying fusions will emanate from this stage, and a number of the city's most exciting musical talents, including Cape Town's own Goema Captains and Sylvia 'Mama Kaap' Mdunyelwa will share the spotlight. Rumour has it that one or two top national artists are also on the line-up (watch this space!). Amongst the prominent arts and cultural industry role-players participating in the Festival are IZIKO museums, Artscape, the Community Arts Project, Association of Visual Arts (AVA), Afribeat (creators of the Wondergigs), JCQ Productions (producers of the Cape Town Jazzathon), the La Rosa Spanish Dance school, Sithengi (Sithengi film festival), IFAS, the Cafda school of dance, the Eoan Group, the Vadhni Dance group and Manyanani (all-male dance company). Artscape will host the Cape Town International Performing Arts Festival, where productions on the program will explore creative fusions between different dance disciplines. "From 2004 onwards the Cape Town Festival will be primarily a cultural festival, setting it apart from other festivals on the continent," said Mr Ganief. Look out for the jam-packed festival program in the March edition of The Big Issue CT. For more information, please contact Rebecca Atherstone at Rosemary Hare Public Relations cc on (021) 465 1166 or 072 242 2685 -------------- 'HEAVEN & HELL' A WICKED ROCK CD PROJECT WickedRock.co.za is inviting all SA bands and artists to join their new South African indie CD project. A diversity of rock 'n roll will be represented on the upcoming compilation album, from commercial radio potentials to the "psychological underground". Wicked Rock will be releasing the CD with some extensive marketing involving the bands themselves as well as a broad sweep of all the current SA music media. There will be launches in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Durban. Every band will be included within the Wicked Rock promotions with some bands getting to deliver their great music to different cities. Those interested in this project must do the following: 1) Bands must send two copies of two songs (preferably under 4 minutes 30 seconds length) on two good quality CD-R's. On the front of the CD cover include your contact number, the band's name, the composer and track lengths in minutes and seconds. 2) Two good quality photographs of the entire band. This may be included on the CDR in jpeg or gif format (300dpi and 20cm x 20cm in size) and if so chosen, the inclusion must be noted on the CD cover. You agree that your pictures may be used for publicity purposes. 3) A fee is to be paid once you are confirmed on the specified date. 4) A Biography in the following format: Band's name. Band's website URL. Description of genre. Band members and what instrument they play. History and greatest successes in less than 150 words. ID numbers, Age, E-mail address, addresses and phone numbers for each member in the band Management/booking agent telephone no., e-dress and postal address. All material must be submitted by February 27th 2003. Bands will be notified of their acceptance on March 1st. All payments to be made by March 12th. Post to: Wicked Rock - Postnet Suite 117, Private Bag X504, Northway, KZN, South Africa, 4065. Contact Wicked Mike on 083 742 5145 with any queries. Mailto:wickedmikenet@hotmail.com -------------- WANT TO JOIN THANDISWA MAZWAI'S BAND?? Having being shot into the limelight by her singing career with dynamic pop group Bongo Maffin, Afro-pop diva Thandiswa Mazwai has begun a massive search for musicians to join her as a backing band. The selected musicians will form her personal band to support her in the launching of her upcoming debut solo album, as well as touring with her in April and accompanying her musically in the future. Keyboardists, guitarists and drummers are invited to come to Kippies International jazz club between the 19th and the 22nd February to try out for these prestigious roles. Thandiswa will personally select the band from the entrants, and after a short rehearsal time, the band will be launched by performing an unplugged set on YFM on the 18th March - one day before the release of the as-yet-untitled album. On the 2nd of April, Thandiswa and the band will set out on her national tour, performing in all the major cities. Thandiswa has just finished recording the new album: an eclectic mix of Afro-pop and jazz, laced with funky beats and rhythms and produced by Malambule from Native Rhythms Productions as well contributions from D-Rex, Spikiri and Jean-Paul Monique from international act Incognito. The album is due for release on the 19th March. -------------- DROP DEAD GORGEOUS HEADING TO THE CAPE 
Michelle Steynberg is bringing her band to Cape Town this week to promote their 'Melt With Me' album. First single, 'Blah Di Blah', is currently moving strongly up the SAmp3.com charts and there are a lot of Drop Dead Gorgeous fans in the Cape keen for a glimpse of the dynamic Johannesburg blonde vocalist, currently receiving obvious comparisons with Karen Zoid. Those Drop Dead Gorgeous dates are: Tues 17 Feb - Sirrocco's, Gordonsbaai Weds 18 Feb - Whammy Bar, Tableview Thursday 19 Feb - The Grange, Durbanville Friday 20 Feb - MCQP Party Sat 21 Feb - Dorpstraat Teater Phone 082-440-3775 for more info. LISTEN http://www.SAmp3.com/artists.html -------------- HERE IS "THE NEWS" - A REPORT BACK Thanks to Paul Jarvis we now have webpages for The Safari Suits and The News as part of the SA Rock Encyclopedia. This has all resulted from an initial email request to Sound Solutions recently, asking for info on these two SA bands. Paul Jarvis, the man behind these bands, supplied almost-ready webpages that just needed to be tweaked and uploaded... THE SAFARI SUITS http://www.rock.co.za/files/safari_suits.html THE NEWS http://www.rock.co.za/files/news.html -------------- 'URBAN' BARGAIN AT ONE WORLD One World, in association with New Africa Books, is currently offering a limited special on all three in the 'Urban' books series. The 'Urban' anthology of new writing was initially conceived and edited by Dave Chislett as new short story collections for new writers, and was later embraced by New Africa Books who began publishing an annual collection under its Spearhead imprint in 2001. You can now buy copies of 'Urban '01', 'Urban '02', and 'Urban '03' at a special price of R249.99, a saving of R25. Purchasers will only pay one shipping charge for all three books if they choose the special offer. Order from: http://www.oneworld.co.za -------------- CHARTS 
SA ROCK DIGEST TOP 30 SOUTH AFRICAN MP3s OF THE WEEK http://www.SAmp3.com 1. [1] (1) Sobriety Friend - Old Mol ('Rock The Bedsprings'/Legend) 2. [3] (2) Lovesong - The Dolly Rockers ('The Heat'/Indie) 3. [5] (1) Fokofpolisiekar - Fokofpolisiekar (SAmp3.com/Rhythm/Bowline) 4. [6] (4) Met My Stukkende Kitaar - Koos Kombuis & Valiant Swart (''n Jaar In Die Son'/Rhythm/Bowline) 5. [9] (5) Blah Di Blah - Drop Dead Gorgeous ('Melt with Me'/Indie) 6. [7] (6) The Countdown - Bluescream ('Bluescream'/Indie) 7. [8] (7) Step Outside - Luna ('Luna'/Indie) 8. [4] (2) Rise - Sonar ('Bitterwaste' EP/Indie) 9. [2] (2) Duiwel Kom Ons Haal - Springcan ('Are You Confuzed?'/Indie) 10. [13] (10) To Confide In - Lazarus ('Parallax View'/Indie) 11. [12] (11) Antipodean Dirge - Tim Wells ('Elephant'/Indie) 12. [15] (12) Afrikaner Surfer Boy - Vanessa Van ('Leef Die Droom'/Bowline) 13. [17] (13) Take You Down - Glow (Witchdoctor Records) 14. [18) (3) Let's Get Naked - Evolver ('Evolver' EP/Indie) 15. [10] (3) Mowgli - Zero Tolerance ('A Perfect Life'/Indie) 16. [14] (1) Hands Down - Track 4 ('Demo'/Indie) 17. [11] (5) Life Away - My Shade ('Bedtime Musick'/Indie) 18. [16] (1) All The World - Zen Arcade ('Release'/Indie) 19. [21] (19) Saad van 'n Psigopaat - Abel Kraamsaal ('Woorde Op 'n Wynboks'/Indie) 20. [22] (20) Bliss - Toyland ('With Every Breath'/Witchdoctor Records) 21. [26] (21) Close To Me - Six Of Nine (Indie) 22. [-] (22) Gangsta - The Rudimentals ('More Fire'/Indie) 23. [19] (4) Twisted - Believable Addiction (Indie) 24. [25] (24) The Master Plan - Blood Island Raiders ('For The Sake Of Clarity'/Witchdoctor) 25 [-] (25) Gravity - James Stewart (Street Level) 26. [30] (26) Living As Numbers - Zero Tolerance ('A Perfect Life'/Indie) 27. [-] (27) Die Ding Ruk Mal - Kallitz (Mothermix) 28. [-] (28) Musical Chairs - Serving Suggestion ['Try Whistling This'/Indie] 29. [23] (1) Above My Room - Jo Day ('The Truth'/Indie 30. [20] (10) My Favourite Song On The Radio - What Now?! ('Let Us Be Heard'/Wicked Rock) Download South African MP3s at http://www.samp3.com ---------------------------- SA ROCK DIGEST TOP 20 SOUTH AFRICAN ALBUMS OF THE WEEK http://www.sarockdigest.com/charts This week [last week] (highest position) Title - Artist (Label) 1. [3] (1) The Heat - Dolly Rockers (Indie) 2. [2] (1) More Fire - The Rudimentals (Indie) 3. [4] (3) Humanarium - Bed On Bricks (Indie) 4. [1] (1) African Dope Sound System - Various (African Dope) 5. [6] (5) 21 Gunslut - Soulja (Indie) 6. [7] (6) Muti Media - Kalahari Surfers (African Dope) 7. [15] (7) As Jy Met Vuur Speel Sal Jy Brand - Fokofpolisiekar (Rhythm) 8. [5] (1) 'n Jaar In Die Son - Koos Kombuis & Valiant Swart (Rhythm/Bowline) 9. [8] (4) Luna - Luna (Indie) 10. [9] (2) Melt With Me - Drop Dead Gorgeous (Indie/Bowline) 11. [11] (1) Rock The Bedsprings - Old Mol (Legend) 12. [13] (12) With Every Breath - Toyland (Witchdoctor) 13. [16] (1) Steady On - Moodphase 5ive (African Dope) 14. [18] (14) Naked EP - Hog Hoggidy Hog (3 Chord Records) 15. [10] (3) Power - Tribe After Tribe (RetroFresh) 16. [23] (16) Boerecountry - Blomkrag (Indie) 17. [26] (17) Africa She Too Can Cry - Hawk (Retro Fresh) 18. [17] (1) Jika Jika - freshlyground (Freeground) 19. [14] (2) Perelsvoordieswyne - Best Of - Johannes Kerkorrel (Gallo) 20. [12] (7) Flat To Round - David Foster (Rhythm/Bowline) 21. [21] (2) Sui - Benguela (Open Record) 22. [19] (1) The Truth - Jo Day (Indie) 23. [20] (2) Hello Crazy World - Prime Circle (David Gresham Records) 24. [29] (24) I-Ternal Fire - Lions Of Zion (Indie) 25. [22] (1) Die Mamba - Piet Botha (Rhythm) 26. [25] (3) Breathe Sunshine - Various (Amabala) 27. [-] (29) Never Look Back - Brian Finch (Independent) 28. [27] (1) Another Universe - Arno Carstens (Epic) 29. [24] (15) Blomdoorns - Derek Gripper (Open Record) 30. [-] (30) High Society presents: 14 Steps towards Self Actualisation' - Daniel Friedman (Independent) MP3s by all these artists are available to download at http://www.samp3.com Buy http://www.oneworld.co.za More info on all these artists at: SA Rock Legends The hosting of MP3s on the SA Rock Digest website is thanks to the Future Perfect Corporation http://www.futureperfectcorporation.com Building online communities to make the future perfect Chart statistics at: http://www.sarockdigest.com/charts New Releases
NEW MP3's: All the mp3s listed here are available to download at http://www.SAmp3.com - the biggest South African mp3 website in the world. AFRICAN DOPE PROVIDES A RICH MP3 HARVEST! African Dope, the famous and tireless independent record label from Cape Town have not let the grass grow under their feet. The label has released a list of new releases including the 'African Dope Sound System' CD (the third in their compilation series), 'Muti Media', the new album from the Kalahari Surfers, and another collaborative compilation called 'Silvertab Harambe Dope Sessions'. Thanks to the folk at African Dope for making the following tracks available for downloading at SAmp3.com: -------------- KALAHARI SURFERS - 'DIENGELE (THE GENERALS)' 'Muti Media' is the new album by Warrick Sony on the African Dope label and features more sonic textures from one of South Africa's most innovative and intelligent music producers. 'Diengele' is the first track off the album. -------------- TEBA - 'FCK' This track by Teba ("the original social worker") is off the new 'Silvertab Harambe Dope Sessions' collection on the African Dope label. -------------- CHRONIC CLAN - 'GIMME DA WEED' You loved the 'African Dope Volume 1' collection, were blown away by the following 'Cape Of Good Dope' compilation, and now we have the third in the series with the release of the 'African Dope Sound System'. This is the Chronic Clan making their intentions clear with this ode to um, African dope. -------------- WICKED ROCK And from Durban label Wicked Rock comes 2 brand new mp3s: SATURNINE - 'PARALLEL' The 3-piece Saturnine hail from Durban and this rock song starts slowly and then rocks out big-time with a great metal riff. "A metal journey through adventurous melody" says the Wicked Rock website and that's spot-on. 'Silence Is Deafening', their debut CD, will be available in March 2004. -------------- SITTER - 'GEORGIA' No, this is not a cover of the old classic 'Georgia On My Mind', but rather a very catchy Blink182 style song. Altogether now "Her name's Georgia, whoaah..." --------------- SEARCH FOR MP3's Use the SAmp3.com onboard search engine, powered by Google, to search for mp3s on SAmp3.com. ----------------- Email your MP3 reviews to editor@sarockdigest.com All the full-length mp3s are available for free download at http://www.SAmp3.com by kind permission of the artists and/or their labels. ---------------------------- NEW CD's: DUNCAN'S GREATEST HITS 'The Very Best Of Duncan Faure' is a new CD release that features the cream of Faure's post Rabbitt/Rollers solo career crop, including the hits 'Where Is The Music', 'Let It Be Right', 'New Today', 'Better Than Ever', and 'Brother'. There is also the 2003 holiday single, 'This Is The Christmas', the current smash, 'Not Enough Hours' and more. The 15-song collection 'The Very Best Of Duncan Faure' is available now exclusively online at www.duncanfaure.com Mailto:waynecoy@aol.com -------------- POLSTAR RELEASE 'TORN PAGES' Polstar is a Cape Town alt.folk ambient duo formed in 2002 by D Marcelle Souchon (ex-Lunge) and Stephen Timm (The Buckfever Underground and Gurkha). The mini-album, 'Torn Pages', was independently recorded and produced, and is the band's first release. 'Torn Pages' features both instrumentals and songs captured in a suburban lounge in Newlands, Cape Town. Polstar are currently working with bass-player Jason Dyke (Gurkha) on material for their first full-length album. Catch Polstar in concert on 18 February 2004 when they will be promoting 'Torn Pages' at Rafikis in Cape Town. For more information contact: mailto:polstar@iafrica.com -------------- UBUNTU RECORDS TO RELEASE COMPILATION CD Peak Performances, in collaboration with Ubuntu Records, will be releasing a Proudly South African 'must have' compilation album: a collection of audio and visuals to celebrate the 10 years of Freedom and Democracy. 'Freedom to Celebrate: 10 Years of Democracy in South Africa' will be a unique 2-CD compilation album with some of the best tracks South African artists have ever produced. From Johnny Clegg to Danny K, Amampondo, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Brenda Fassie, Busi Mhlongo, Springbok Nude Girls, Just Ginger, Boo!, to name but a few. The album will also feature a mind-blowing 5-minute movie celebrating our great country and culture on the second CD. Fire it up in your CD-Rom and re-live some of the great moments of the last ten years. Lenny van Den Berg, Managing Director of Ubuntu Records, explains: "We have chosen a unique path for the album. We have chosen to showcase all the great different styles that our wonderful country has to offer. This is about a rainbow of musical styles that offers hope to other nations around the world." See the 'Live' section below for news of the upcoming 'Ubuntu Nights' concert -------------- WALDORF STRING BAND RELEASE 'SINGALONG PARTY' Waldorf String Band is South Africa's premiere traditional Folk and Celtic music band. Rael Birns (Guitar, Vocals and Mouth Organ) and John Gnodde (Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar and Vocals) - two of the original members of the band - together with Billy Dean (the amazing folk singer/guitarist), Nippy Cripwell (one of the country's finest bass players) and Hamish McLeod (a brilliant flautist from Scotland), play Celtic and other well-known Folk sing-a-longs and foot tapping tunes. After their most recent successes appearing on the Foster & Allen shows, 'Jerry Springer's Saturday Night' and their own shows at Carnival City's Big Top Arena, Gallo Record Company insisted that Waldorf String Band record another two CDs immediately. The first of which, entitled 'Waldorf String Band's Singalong Party' has been finished and will be released on 23 February 2004. The content on this CD features some of the most popular and favourite folk 'singalongs' together with a couple of contemporary surprises - all recorded in the band's distinctive energetic style. On this recording in addition to the diverse musical and vocal talents of Waldorf String Band, the back-up vocals are provided by their old friend Alan Strang, who has recorded with them in a similar capacity before and also the vibrant Kathy Van Rensburg whose voice can be heard distinctively adding her joyful input. The band was also very happy to be joined by great drummer, Barry Van Zyl, who adds his wonderfully driving rhythmic and percussive sounds to this recording. Waldorf String Band's Singalong Party will be available through Gallo Record Company on the 23 February 2004. -------------- BLUESCREAM - 'BLUESCREAM' (INDIE) By LAD 
BlueScream is a new group formed by Roger Kaye (vocals), Tully McCully (bass), Robin Gallagher (guitar) and Kevin Gibson (drums). Their self-titled album, which I must admit I had not heard of before (it's been out since December 2003), was given to me by Brian Currin - I must remember to thank him {you're welcome - BC} - this 14-track CD is excellent! To me BlueScream sound very very much like the early Toxic Shame stuff and that's not a bad thing - it's a very listenable sound! Their '80's early '90's sound is addictive and intoxicating, although I don't like one or two of their tracks I have listened to the CD over and over already! Their first song, 'Without Your Love' smacks of memories and sounds that I thought I'd forgotten. Definitely one of my favourite tracks! Another favourite is 'Closest Thing I've Got' which has Roger sounding a little like Pink Floyd. Then rock on to 'Keep It Coming' which the band does very well. The experience and sheer talent of the members of the band shine through their tracks! The song, 'The Countdown', is an excellent song for the band to list on their site for download http://www.rock.co.za/bluescream as it is a great example of their work. Take a browse over there, download, listen and then get the CD! 'Another Man's Woman' is another fantastic track with clever lyrics. 'The Way You Look Tonight' and 'Fast Lane' are also worth a mention as great songs. Most of their songs have a fairly similar structure working up from a slower intro and they've mastered their recipe very well. I've mentioned the word favourite a few times here - it's a great - get the picture? I'd not listen to the CD day after day, but when I'm in the mood or driving a fair distance I'd definitely listen to the CD over and over. LAD BLUESCREAM http://www.rock.co.za/bluescream ---------------------- ONE WORLD JANUARY RELEASES -------------- DVD: Miriam Makeba - 'Live At Bern's Salonger, Stockholm, Sweden 1966' The film of that historic concert that was broadcast on Swedish television in the '60's is now on DVD, to accompany the first official release of the live album on CD in 2003. Various Artists - 'Urban Offerings From South Africa' A welcome SA compilation DVD with 14 tracks by some of the best SA artists including Lucky Dube, Arthur, Joe Nina and Jabu Khanyile. -------------- VIDEO (VHS): Various Artists - 'Urban Offerings From South Africa' The video version of the DVD, see above -------------- CD: Jazz Various Artists - 'Tales Of Afrojazz' A musical journey to the heart of SA Jazz, covering different styles and influences by artists like Jimmy Dludlu, Louis Mhlanga and many others. Dorothy Masuka - 'Lendaba (This Matter)' One of the finest divas from SA in the '60's is back with the follow-up to her hit album, 'Mizilikazi', and it's another winner! Gloria Bosman - 'Nature Dances' The fourth album from the popular Cape Town vocalist is produced by Wessel Van Rensburg and has some intelligent covers (Bee Gees) amongst Gloria's own material. Bhudaza - 'Bo-Mapefane' A great South African saxophonist, who has performed with the best in the business, steps out with this excellent solo album. Various - 'Best Of South African Jazz' This album features all the tracks off the DVD release from 2003 – from artists like Hugh Masekela, Letta Mbulu, Jonas Gwangwa and others. Various - 'African Jazz Standards' A strong line-up, aimed at the more discerning tourist, with 12 tracks that have helped shaped SA jazz to the present. -------------- Pop & Rock Luna - 'Luna' Debut album from the Stellenbosch singer with the beautiful voice and the memorable songs. David Abbate - 'Crush' A new album from the ex-SA pop singer, now based in LA, where he performs regularly at the Polo lounge in the Beverly Hills Hotel, and also at the Miss World pageant. Wendy New - 'I Dissolve In The Sun' An impressive new pop album, with a touch of light electronica, by an SA artist who lived in NY for nine years, where this album was recorded. Andrew Young - 'Touched To Tell' New album from this hot UK-born and London-educated musician (clarinet and sax) who has performed with Jonathan Butler, Shakatak, Shirley Bassey among others. Silicon Fly - 'Here We Are' Debut pop-rock album from a new SA band produced by Cedric Samson and featuring a cover of Fleetwood Mac's 'Little Lies'. Rise Of Black Dawn - 'Case Study #13' Sunuoka - 'Me Saki Saki' Two innovative and laid back albums by Cape Town musician and producer, Dave van Rensburg Bluescream - 'Bluescream' Tully McCully, the legendary Cape Town musician (McCully Workshop) and producer (Falling Mirror), returns with a new band and a bunch of great new songs. -------------- Township Pop BY4 - 'Bhiza' The ladies release their 5th album, and it is what you may call "a coming of age" album, with a more mature feel and a top class production with that distinct Township Pop sound. Chicco - 'Best Of' (Limited Edition) The eagerly awaited and very well assembled 15-track "best of" collection from one of South Africa's favourite pop stars will please his many fans. Includes the smash hit, 'Modjadji'. -------------- Kwaito Gidigidimajimaji - 'Many Faces' Is this album the future of Kwaito? 'Many Faces' works off a fusion of Kwaito and Hip/Hop and could find favour across the SA markets! Various Artists - 'Tales Of Urban SA' A strong Kwaito collection is always welcome and this one has many of that genre's defining moments - with Mandoza, Zola, Kabelo - worthwhile for both beginners and fans seeking a decent compilation. Zombo - 'Mamba' The Ragga-Maffin guru back with his 3rd release, and the title rocks! Ezasenkambini - 'Maififi' This tongue-twistingly- titled group successfully fuse traditional Zulu music with Kwaito. Brown Dash - 'Puff 'n Pass' Better known as Mzekezeke's sidekick, collectively they call themselves the Thembis Connection. The title track, 'Bomb', features Zola. -------------- Rap/Hip Hop Various Artists - 'African Dope Soundsystem' The third in the series of African Dope collections to follow 'Volume One' and Cape Of Good Dope', and another very hip and unique release with a variety of names performing the newest and coolest in SA dub, hip hop – 18 tracks from names like Tim Parr, Black Dillinger, Teba, and others. Cashless Society - 'African Raw Material Vol 1' A dynamic, new SA hip hop release with contributions from some of SA's biggest hip hop names including Tumi and Mizchif. Top stuff. Various Artists - 'Silvertab - Harambe Dope Sessions' Another release on the African Dope label, this is a compilation that shows off the fruits of their collaboration with 'Harambe', a local youth music program where fans can check out new hip hop. Spex - 'Nothing For Mahala' A very popular indie hip hop artist and release, Spex has already been featured on a few SA hip hop compilations and has performed alongside the best in the biz. -------------- Traditional Bhekumuzi Luthili - 'Udumo Lwakhe' A traditional gospel album from this prolific artist, featuring many new tracks. Women Of Mambazo - 'Mamizolo' Another traditional gospel album album from this "sister" group to Ladysmith Black Mambazo, founded by Nellie and Joseph Shabalala of Ladysmith, and produced by Joseph Shabalala Various Artists - 'Tales Of The Mbira (Modern & Ancient)' The tracks on this album show off the versatility of this fascinating acoustic finger instrument. A Sheer Africa release. Soweto Percussion Ensemble - 'Tales Of The Drum' This Gauteng ensemble recorded a series of drum-based tracks for this album aimed at tourists and drum circle fans. A Sheer Africa release. Various Artists - 'Tales Of The Marimba (Modern & Ancient)' The tracks on this album are focused mainly on the SA method of playing this xylophone-type instrument but also contain a fusion with the marimba sounds of west Africa. A Sheer Africa release. Various Artists - 'Tales Of The Kora (Modern & Ancient)' This album features some of Africa's most accomplished exponents of this fascinating and complex instrument. A Sheer Africa release. Other titles in this new series of titles on the Sheer Africa label include: 'African Chants & Harmonies' 'African Drum Beats' 'African Drums' Mosala Kholeho - 'Marimba Mosala' This album features a range of instruments and sounds in true African fusion. Gingirikani - 'Gingirikani' A diverse showcase of the drums and rhythms of SA Akwaaba - 'Akwaaaba' Some covers of some famous African songs, performed with drums and other traditional instruments. -------------- Dance/Electronica Kalahari Surfers - 'Multi Media' The follow-up to 'Akassic Record' and more musical explorations from producer and musician extraordinaire, Warrick Sony. Chilled Alaskan DJ - 'Somewhere We Are Alive' Chilled Alaskan DJ - 'Title X' Two more titles featuring the musical talents of Cape Town producer, Dave van Rensburg. -------------- Afrikaans Fokofpolisiekar - 'As Jy Met Vuur Speel Sal Jy Brand' Debut 6-track EP from the most exciting new Afrikaans band on the SA punk rock scene. Kristoe Strauss - 'Varke, Marbles En Ander Verlore Goed' Something special from the artist who was last spotted performing with Koos Kombuis at the KKNK Blackie Swart - 'Pers Kombers' Blackie is a big favourite in the Afrikaans music scene and this is sure to be another top selling album. Sumare - 'So Adios' Debut album from this gorgeous-voiced finalist in the 2003 Crescendo Competition. Various Artists - 'Groot 5 En Die Lollipop Toer - Ontembaar!' The "Big 5" are Steve Hofmeyr, Patricia Lewis, Dozi, Ferdi, And Sunette Bridges. This is music from their combined "Lollipop Tour". Randall Wicomb - 'Oss Wes Tuis Bes' The latest offering from the very popular Mr Wicomb. Latest Boeremusiek Releases: Die Ghitaar Man - 'Kliphard Boeremusiek' Sollie Marx - 'Lekker Ou Kitaar' Danie Grey - 'Trap Der Boerepomp' -------------- International Thomas Mapfumo - 'Choice Chimurenga' This veteran Zimbabwean music legend has just released a powerful new album through the South African Sheer label, current home to that other Zimbabwean music star, Oliver "Tuku" Mtukudzi Selling South African Music to the World: http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 -------------- MORE REVIEWS More reviews can be found at: Open Record http://www.openrecord.co.za Amuzine http://www.cd.co.za/reviews.htm -------------- THE ZAZONE.COM SA BAND SPOTLIGHT: http://www.zaZone.com -------------------------------------------------- LAD, the dedicated webmaster of zaZone.com, throws his regular spotlight on one of the many SA bands currently affiliated to his SA music site. 12TH AVENUE 12th Avenue is a 4-piece band from Cape Town made up of Mark Haze on lead vocals and guitar, Bradley Masson on drums and backing vocals, Bjorn Faree on guitars & backing vocals and Pieter Minnie on bass guitar. Back in mid 2002 Mark had left a band and started up with Bradley whom he'd interviewed as a drummer for the band. They started out as a garage band and eventually met Bjorn at a party and invited him to play with them. Their first gig was played without a bass guitarist but it gave them the inspiration to find a bass player and work on the material they already had. They met up with Pieter and the band was formed. The band likes to call it "predetermined destiny". 12th Avenue played many gigs after starting up at several venues around Cape Town and also played at the Maynardville Carnival in 2003. They also played in the Last Band Standing competition held at the Purple Turtle, where they came third. They've been building their fan base steadily and have a relatively big following in Worcester. They are currently spending quite a bit of time in the Ripchord Studios where their material is in pre-production for their as-yet-untitled debut album. They hope to get the album out in 2004 - from what I've heard in the studio it promises to be a good one! Their mp3 'War', which was released on SAmp3.com, was not intended to be released, but they were offered the recording facilities by a friend. Once they recorded it they decided to release the track and see what happened... They were quite surprised when it got to number 8 on the 2003 SAmp3 charts! The band has several gigs lined up, but none have been confirmed as yet, for more information regarding the band and/or the gigs watch their website which is http://www.12thavenue.co.za/ If you're an SA band/artist and would like to appear in this slot please mailto:tony@zazone.com. Remember that you can view the wap site by pointing your mobile to: http://www.zazone.com/wap Watch out for more announcements of interesting things happening at zaZone.com! Sponsored by zaZone.com Promoting SA Music... http://www.zazone.com LAD LISTEN http://www.SAmp3.com/artists_l_s.html If you're in a SA Band or are a SA artist and would like to appear in this slot please mail mailto:tony@zazone.com Sponsored by zaZone.com Promoting SA Music... http://www.zaZone.com ------------------------------- CD of the Week
HAWK - 'AFRICA SHE TOO CAN CRY' - (RetroFresh, freshcd137)
Here is a quote from an email received in 1999 from Krister in Sweden: "I am 24 years old and a university student. When I was about 6 or 7 or so I got hold of this fantastic album, Jo'burg Hawk's 'Africa she too can cry' from 1973. This has haunted me thru the years and I find it an all time great. I suppose that the chance that their album ever got out on CD are minimal. That's unfortunate since my only vinyl is really torn down and scratchy." OK, Krister, your wish (and that of many others) has been granted. At last this classic album from the 70's has been re-released on CD. This album has actually been released in 3 different versions; the first was in 1972 a year or so after the phenomenal 'African Day' album. In 1973 'Africa She Too Was Cry' was released in the UK (and Europe) by the Charisma label (home of Genesis at the time) with a revised track listing and credited to JoBurg Hawk. In the late 90's an unofficial CD with the same title was released by the Japanese Never Land label. Despite the fact that this was a pirate CD, it was also more of a compilation than a re-issue, as it featured tracks from all 3 Hawk albums. After much deliberation and discussion (and lack of master recordings) Benjy Mudie of Fresh Music decided to release the UK version of 'Africa She Too Can Cry' with bonus tracks culled from some singles-only releases and the elusive 'Live And Well' album, which was not actually a "live" recording, despite its title. The 'African Day Suite' is a re-recorded and extended version of the side-long epic which originally appeared on 'African Day'. It tells the story, in spoken words, lyrics and music, of a rampaging elephant that threatens to destroy a tribal village and has to be killed. The fact that the censors missed the analogy to the oppressive apartheid regime at the time is amazing. Freedom's Children's Ramsay Mackay wrote a major portion of the material for this album, and though he did not play on it, his influence is strongly felt. Mackay's compatriot in Freedom's, Julian Laxton, was a Hawk member by this time and his guitar work here is subdued but legendary. The catchy 'Dark Side Of The Moon' song has nothing to do with the Pink Floyd classic album, and in fact was released almost a year before that album's debut. Bonus tracks include the original version of the much-covered 'Orang Outang' (Kenny Henson's Harambee, Margaret Singana, Brian Finch and more have all recorded it) which was also penned by Ramsay Mackay and released as a single in the UK in 1973. The obscure 'Kalahari Dry' song was used as part of an ad campaign for Groovy cooldrink (remember Groovy?) and released as a single in South Africa in November 1972. The original vinyl single was found lurking in Tertius Louw's extensive collection and digitally transferred by him for this CD re-issue. The Chicago-meets-Osibisa styled 'Mumbo Jumbo' is another Ramsay Mackay composition which deserves wider exposure. The closing track of this CD re-issue is the beautiful ballad 'In My Youth' (from 'Live And Well') which sounds like it could have been written for the stageshow 'Hair'. Audrey Moutaung's voice soars on this one and is then balanced by the earthy tones of Ornellas. Excellent and detailed sleeve notes are provided by Raymond Joseph including recent interviews with vocalist Dave Ornellas and guitarist Julian Laxton. This is truly an album of Africa and a must-have for every music fans collection. (BC) READ http://www.rock.co.za/hawk LISTEN http://www.freshmusic.co.za/retrofresh.htm BUY http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321&searchfor=hawk -------------- This and any other SA CD can be ordered online at One World, the best SA CD store on the pla-Net. CLASSIC SA ROCK:
Kurt Shoemaker (Texas), John Samson (London), Tertius Louw, and Brian Currin browse through the best of SA rock - its history, its people, and its music, past, and present. USA FOR AFRICA - Texas-based Kurt Shoemaker gives his unique views on SA music. SPINNEKOP - 'SOET SEPTEMBER' In this hemisphere, September is the end of summer and a melancholy month, a bittersweet month--but not a dying month like October. So to me the songs on 'Soet September' fit the fall season more than the spring, tinged by sad awareness as it is. Still, there's an optimistic tone without being overtly joyous. In this Afrikaans rock, Guy Veldman's guitar soars in and out of the verses and around Gian Hanekom's singing. Bandmate Alex Power is on bass (most obviously pulsing on the 'Maanskyn'), and a few friends drop in on this six-song EP. We start off with brash, sassy, and swaggering guitars and assertive, raspy vocals on 'Tiger en Louise', then hit a mid-tempo number 'Roekeloos in Dorpstraat' singing the virtues of recklessness and rock guitars. 'Winde van Drome' has a dreamy, wistful mood. 'Maanskyn' jounces along well enough on a reggae beat decorated by Leon van Sweil's shining sax; pleasant, but only as long as it lasts and does not stick. 'Spook' has an ominous heavy beat and chunky rhythmic guitars, and the lead guitar takes the road for a few solo bars. The EP closes with 'Vier Seisoene Kind' and a melancholy harmonica matched by Gian's melancholy singing, Casper Malherbe's delicate guitar, and Tasha Nortier's soft backing vocals. Ultimately, this closing number is the one that echoes in my mind after the EP is over. Like most musical works, not every song is taken to one's heart as a favorite, but 'Soet September' has mostly memorable songs as the short work both rocks and has a couple of slow songs. This is an EP to play over to enjoy its moody rock pleasure. READ http://www.cd.co.za/legends/2000plus/spinnekop.html LISTEN http://www.SAmp3.com/afrimusik.html BUY http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321&searchfor=spinnekop Kurt Shoemaker, Blanco, Texas kurt@sarockdigest.com ---------------------------- A NAARTJIE IN THE UK - London-based John Samson gives his own twist on SA music: 'SAND.MAN.SKY' - SUGARDRIVE Hey, now just get in and we'll go for a drive. If that opening sentence doesn't make sense, don't worry It's Immaterial. But let's go for a drive anyway, a Sugardrive. Okay open up the passenger side of the jewel case and hop in, let's see how this baby handles. The first thing that impresses is the way the engine purrs along with a slight rhythmic throbbing that settles you nicely into the driving seat, even when you get the revs going and apply a bit of pressure to the accelerator, the engine gets louder, but it still sounds good. Don't answer that cell phone while you're driving now. Let's hit the track. Man this thing corners well. Woah watch track 7 there's a 'Drunk (One)' there that gets a bit hectic, skidding around the place a bit. Tyres screeching, rubber burning, but hey that's music to some people's ears. Okay, now we're cruising, watching the lazy Sunday towns pass by, kinda free, but kinda depressing, like driving through a black and white movie. That beat is always there, sort of a tripping sound, a comforting reminder that the engine is in good nick. Watch out there some serious rocks in the road, fortunately they're 'Friendly 101's. No don't park here, this is a darker side of town there may be 'Soul Vandals' around who will damage the car. The clouds are gathering and the thunder rolls ominously as it looks like we're in for some 'Sh*t Weather', but don't worry as the rain lashes down there's the tick ticking of the windscreen wipers keeping our view clear. The alarm is going, it's one of those constant hooting affairs, but 'You Beautiful Girl', you beautiful car the sound is reassuring as I know it's keeping you safe. What a great drive that was. Sand Man Sky, put a Sugar in front of any of these words and only one is cool, put a Sugar in front of drive and combine it with the other three and you've got a great deal. Happy motoring, and remember Life's Hard Then You Die. (Again It's Immaterial). John Samson, London mailto:john@sarockdigest.com ---------------------------- GERARD SEKOTO & THE BLUE HEADS A Brief History While many of legendary South African painter Gerard Sekoto's artworks hang in galleries and collections around the world, the manuscripts of his musical compositions remained undiscovered during his lifetime. Several years after Sekoto's death in France in 1993, his estate was eventually returned to South Africa by the French government. Skip forward to 2002, and Sekoto biographer/author Barbara Lindop is researching material for a new book on Sekoto in the archives of the South African National Gallery in Cape Town, when she makes a remarkable discovery: Stashed in one of Sekoto's old suitcases are 26 of his musical manuscripts. Barbara's research and published work has largely re-introduced Gerard Sekoto's art to South Africa and led to a re-assessment of his contribution to the cultural history of the country. He is now widely considered a pioneer of township art alongside other greats like George Pemba, Ernest Mancoba, Dumile Feni, Ephraim Ngatane and Andrew Motjuadi. The discovery of the manuscripts revealed that Sekoto was also a highly talented composer and musician. In 2003 Lindop set about bringing the material to life by forming The Blue Heads ensemble, named after a series of paintings Sekoto made in the '60's, inspired from a pencil drawing he had made of singer Miriam Makeba. Under Lindop's guidance, the group has adapted several of Sekoto's tunes, originally composed for a solo pianist, for a larger Afro-jazz based ensemble, and while Sekoto wrote his lyrics in either French or English, some of them have been translated into Zulu. Sekoto wrote these powerful and heart rending compositions in the early '50's during his days of self-imposed exiled in Paris, France. The Blue Heads group is currently a 10-member strong outfit based in Johannesburg, and comprises several seasoned jazz performers, including pianist/vocalist Dimpies Tshabalala, guitarist Ntokozo Zungu, and drummer Isaac Mtshali of Stimela fame. The group has now performed publicly on a few occasions and, with several high profile gigs, a debut CD recording via BMG Africa, a TV documentary and Market Theatre musical all in the works for 2004, the project is adding an intriguing new chapter to the amazing story of Sekoto's life. Born in 1913 in Botshabelo, near Middelberg in what is now Mpumalanga, the son of a Lutheran missionary, Sekoto had early exposure to and developed a passion for music and art while still at school. Following his father's wishes, he then trained and qualified as a teacher in Pietersburg , Polokwane, and it was while studying there that he decided he wanted to become an artist. But it was only later, whilst actually teaching at the Khaiso School that his colleagues and friends - most notably the sculptor/painter, Ernest Mancoba - encouraged and inspired him to practise his art full time. So in 1938 Sekoto resigned his teaching post and moved to Sophiatown, Johannesburg to pursue his dream. His works depicting everyday life in the bustling suburb are now some of his best-known paintings. "My effort when I was in Sophiatown was to arouse the consciousness in our own people of the horrible conditions in which they lived", wrote Sekoto of his work during that era. "Such awakening would create power and weight to demand the right and knowledge to be able to live like everyone else in the country." Sekoto wanted to broaden his own artistic horizons and moved first to District Six in Cape Town, and then after a few years back up to the Eastwood area in Pretoria, all the while exhibiting his works. (Interestingly the residents of Eastwood were later forcibly removed to the area that is now Mamelodi, while both Sophiatown and District Six were famously razed to the ground in the '70's.) By the mid 1940's Sekoto was determined to leave South Africa and to move to Paris - the centre of the art world - and in September 1947 he sailed from Cape Town to France via England. He was never to set foot in South Africa again. Life as an unknown artist in post-war Paris proved to be very tough - especially since he could not initially speak French. But it was Sekoto's love and natural gift for music that saw him through and he found work singing and playing the piano and guitar in small bistros and jazz/cabaret nightspots on the left bank of Paris. While he also managed to study art at the time, with his charmingly soulful voice, deft musicianship and unique material, Sekoto developed a small following as a performer. Sekoto was studying and building up a name as a painter, but the many late nights of drink-fuelled jazz and ongoing economic hardships begun to take their toll. Following a heated argument with his friend, agent and gallery owner Ramond de Cardonne, Sekoto was admitted to the St.Anne's psychiatric hospital for observation. Whilst there he sketched some of his best work, mostly of French World War II veterans. Shortly after his discharge, he was introduced by de Cardonne to Marthe Hennebert, who was quite a legend in her own right. She was the muse, and inspiration for the poems of the German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke. Gerard was invited by Marthe to move into her apartment, which they shared as lovers for the next 30 years. Freshly inspired by the bohemian energy of Paris, Sekoto gradually re-focused on his painting and sketching, and as he continued to re-interpret his South African themes, began to explore new ones, with his easy lines capturing the legendary street life and spirit of the great city. In 1967 Sekoto was attending the Congress of Negro Artists in Dakar, Senegal, when he was forced to return to nurse Marthe who had taken ill. Soon thereafter, Sekoto was strolling along the Rue Jacob with a friend when they noticed a crowd gathered around a piano, watching auditions for the famous Jazz club L'Echelle de Jacob. Encouraged by his friend, Sekoto auditioned, and was immediately offered the job. It was here that Sekoto began to compose his own songs to perform to his nightly audience. Sekoto's own music was heavily influenced by the upbeat American and South African jazz of the day, but was also infused with a melancholy that reflected his personal struggles and longing for home. His musical compositions reflect the versatility of Sekoto's talent and genius: he draws on varied sources for his inspiration, including the early influence of church music, negro spirituals, the songs his mother sang, the "chansons de la rue" - so popular in post-war Paris - and the popular hits of American stars Louis Armstrong, Harry Belafonte and Frank Sinatra. Sekoto's songs are unique: in the gentle humour, conveyed in the lyrics also written by Sekoto, and in the poignancy expressed longing for home, whilst adapting to a foreign environment and trying to win friends. They are the universal expression of the struggle of the artistic soul, to survive in exile. Three of the songs were actually published in 1956 by Les Editions Musicales in Paris. There are 26 surviving compositions, and the changing musical notation shows the development that took place in Sekoto's mastery of his new career path. Each song intrinsically possesses the potential to become a popular hit. In his own writings about his life, he acknowledged how the important influence of church music, which surrounded his childhood, had influenced his own creative genius. He admits to his prowess on the accordion, bought by his father for his two sons. It is also believed that hymns are still sung in Lutheran Churches, which were composed by Sekoto, whilst he was living with his parents. Sekoto was a true Renaissance man: Quite apart from his painting and musical exploits, Sekoto is also known for his creative writing. He wrote copious letters, describing his life in Paris and poetry - that he composed throughout his life - as well as his philosophical and political essays (some of which were published), that he delivered at various times throughout his career. When Marthe eventually died in 1982, Sekoto was forced to move from the apartment, into a restrictive state-run old age home. Whilst there his misfortune continued and he was struck by a car, spending the next three years recovering in hospital. In 1987 he moved to La Maison des Artistes - a government-run institution for aging artists - where he died peacefully in 1993. Since 1983 Lindop had been in regular contact with Sekoto, and it was her extensive biography of him, published in 1988, that largely helped re-establish his profile and reputation in South Africa. But even during his lifetime, Sekoto was acknowledged to be one of the most important artistic figures in the development of South African contemporary art. His achievements as an artist are widely acknowledged, both in South Africa, and internationally. An annual Gerard Sekoto Day is celebrated throughout South Africa in the country's various art institutions. Two major collections of his art are housed at the University of the Witwatersrand Art Galleries, and at the South African National Gallery, Cape Town. In 1989, the Johannesburg Art Gallery held a comprehensive Gerard Sekoto retrospective exhibition and in the same year he was awarded a prestigious honorary doctorate by Wits University, but he never returned home. He was also awarded the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French Government. Sekoto is buried in the cemetary of Nogent-sur -Marne, outside Paris. After his death, Barbara established the Gerard Sekoto Foundation - comprising several notable South African art and business figures - which now handles all aspects of his rich artistic legacy. It is hoped that the Blue Heads project will help enhance and further spread the legacy of a man who was a true artist...and is now rightly considered a South African legend. In order to realise the compositions, and to enable the songs to be brought to the South African public, a major fundraising project has been undertaken over the past two years. The major sponsors have been the SABC Public Broadcasting Services, the National Lottery, De Beers, BMW, and the French Embassy. This has allowed a musical ensemble, consisting of nine musicians, to be formed and to prepare and practise the songs. BMG Africa has formed a partnership with the Gerard Sekoto Foundation to record and release the music in 2004. The Blue Heads name is inspired by a series of portraits of men and women, painted in a palette of blues during the '60's. These paintings emerge from a long line of portraits Sekoto made, from early in his career, but seem to be particularly inspired from a sketch he made of Miriam Makeba in 1960. Included in the group are Dimpie Tshabalala (piano & lead vocals), Isaac Mtshali (drums), Ntokozo Zungu (lead guitar), Abraham Mhlanga (bass guitar), Beki Mabatha (trombone), and Mzwandile David (accordion), supplemented by three vocalists Mathlodi Maphosa, Nhlanhla Mhlangu and Stanley Mwamba. Barbara Lindop, executive trustee of the Gerard Sekoto Foundation, manages and directs the group. ---------------------------- * CHART CHAT: John Samson takes a weekly look at the the SA pop charts from 15, 20, 25, and 30 years ago this week. We start today's Chart Chat by welcoming the top 5 from 1969 to the fold, and start off on a good footing with a local number 1, The Staccatos cover of 'Cry To Me' which was produced by Billy Forrest. An ex-Number 1, The Troggs' 'You Can Cry If You Want' had failed to chart in the UK or the US. In fact all 3 Troggs hits that charted in SA from 1969 onwards failed to make the grade in those two markets. 1979 saw Albert Hammond's second top 20 hit retain the top spot for the 4th week running. His previous top 20 hit 'The Free Electric Band' had stalled at number 11. The top 4 had now remained unchanged for 3 weeks and the top 5 for 2 weeks. Billy Forrest who was enjoying production credits at the top 5 years earlier was enjoying limited success at number 20 with 'Liefde Is My Nooi Se Naam' (an Afrikaans version of 'Heaven Is My Woman's Love'). And talking about heaven... 'Too Much Heaven' was into its 3rd week at the top in 1979. This was following on from their phenomenal success of 1978 where they had spent 5 weeks occupying the top 2 spots. Billy Joel meanwhile spent his second week at number 2. This would be his highest-charting single in SA. 'Red Red Wine', UB40's cover of the Neil Diamond song jumped into the top 5 closely followed by Olivia Newton-John's 'Twist Of Fate', the latter taken from the soundtrack of 'Two Of A Kind' which was the first movie starring her and John Travolta since 'Grease'. Needless to say it was nowhere near as successful. With such quality jostling for the top spot, would Culture Club hold on to number 1 for another week?. Well I see you shiver with antici... South Africans at number 1 this week: Cry To Me - Staccatos (1969) I Don't Wanna Play House - Barbara Ray (1973) Substitute - Clout (1978) South African New Entries this week: 17-Feb-84 Taximan - éVoid 18-Feb-83 Feel So Strong - Hotline & Steve Kekana 19-Feb-71 Give Me More - Mick Jade 19-Feb-71 Home - Dave Mills 20-Feb-88 Pump Up The Volume - Mas (Cover of the UK hit by M/A/R/R/S) 22-Feb-74 Miss Eva Goodnight - Crocodile Harris John Samson ---------------------------- BIRTHDAYS Feb. 20 - Nibs van der Spuy (1966) Feb. 21 - Brian Finch (1947) If you info on any South African artists dates of birth, please send them to brian@rock.co.za
SOUND SOLUTIONS A Reader's Forum: This is a selection of the email requests, questions, searches, and other pieces of random info we receive each week at the Digest. Sometimes we can assist, other times we look to you, our collectively well-informed readers to contact these writers and help out as well. Thanks if you do....! Send all letters, short contributions, small band-ads, musical questions and other snippets to: soundsolutions@sarockdigest.com ---------------------------- WHERE ARE THEY? Hi there, I am looking for e-mail addresses or contact numbers for a few industry people. Can u help? They are: a. Dan Heyman b. Craig Hinds c. Joe Arthur Thanks Tony Mailto:tridgway@pnp.co.za ------------- REPLY TO DICK (This is a response to an earlier letter to Sounds Solutions concerning old Springbok Radio archive material) Hi Dick, Unfortunately, I can't help you with your quest for material, but would like to say if someone could bring out a soundtrack of all the old stuff from those days, it will sell well amongst us "mature" folks! I vividly remember Mr Walker wants to Play, Tea with Mr Green (Lesley Green), The "Superman" radio serial ("Up, up and away!"), "Tarzan" (who could forget that yodel!), "So maak mens" with Esmé Euvrard and Jan Cronje, Inspector West, Clark MacKay and Dougie Laws, "Hospitaaltyd", John Silver, Mervyn John, Welcome Little Stranger, Radio Jukebox, "Liefdeslied", Radio Record Club, Peter Lotis, Lowell Johnson, Leslie Richfield, etc, etc. Just repeating these makes me nostalgic! Do let me know if there's a CD available with some of these memories on - I reckon an album with the sig tunes of these serials and magazine programmes would sell well! PS... even some of the ads would be priceless today - remember "Dr McKenzie's Veinoids", "Brylcreem - a little dab'l do ya", et al! Good luck Ben Pheiffer, Hermanus Mailto:benos@iafrica.com -------------- COPY RIGHTS Hello, I am interested in re-recording some songs such as Brenda Fassie's old songs and Yvonne Chaka Chaka's. But I am told I have to get the "rights." My question is, where do I get these recording rights and how much will this cost me? I appreciate your help in advance. Thanks Deb Cox Mailto:boseele@cox.net -------------- NAME THAT SONG Hello Chaps! Thanks for the SA Digest! It is super! Could you please tell me who did a song in the '70's with lyrics "Shine a little love (light) on me, love has a way of making things brighter so shine a little light (or love) on me ". Also where can I purchase this song ? I also renew my plea for any Rising Son music like "Proud Mary". Any Nicky Spiro music, especially "Dulcie, it's December" and of course Alain D. Woolfe with "When love has passed you by". Will pay for this at a good price. Thanks chaps, SA Digest is a blessing to those of us overseas. All the best for 2004! Cheers, Paul. Mailto:skellem101@yahoo.com -------------- FEEDBACK ON THE OTIS WAYGOOD SEARCH Hi All, Just to say to each of you that following your help in response to my request for information on relatives of Martin Jackson of Otis Waygood, I am very pleased to report that I have made contact with Martin's brother Jeremy Jackson - and I have discovered that in Jeremy's 3 children I have 3 'new' cousins. I have also made contact with Martin's father, Gordon, who is my grandfather by blood. Gordon is still alive, at 89, and (get this) he lives only 20 miles from my where my wife's parents live in Lincolnshire! Gordon and his second wife Joan (i.e. not my blood grandmother, but step-grandmother) will meet us for the first time tomorrow afternoon (Sat 7th Feb), as we celebrate my son's (and therefore Gordon's great grandson's) 2nd birthday. Thank you again to all who helped me in this quest. The Net's an amazing thing. God Bless Nick Mailto:nwhittome@yahoo.co.uk OTIS WAYGOOD http://www.rock.co.za/otiswaygood/ -------------- OLD JOEY'S CLUBS? Hi, Reading about the Asylum Kids, Dog Detachment, Via Afrika started a backwards journey to the best days of my life. 22 years old, footloose and fancy free - and making sure I checked every one of the bands listed in your Digest live. Got me to thinking about what happened to all the clubs of the day - Chelsea, Faces, etc . Any websites around reliving the club scene from those days? Dennis Morton Mailto:dennism40@hotmail.com -------------- HAWK DRUMMER Hi, Could you please send me any info you have on Braam Malherbe (Hawk drummer)... Do you know where he is at the moment? Has he played in anything recently? Thank you, I would really appreciate it. Please could you email me directly? Thank you very much! Jesse Mailto:mlhjes001@mail.uct.ac.za -------------- CAN'T CONNECT WITH DGR? Hi there, Thanks for the great newsletter! A few issues back you ran a story about David Gresham Records looking for SA Chill Out tracks. I have been trying to contact them but the email address just bounces mailto:promosales@gresham.co.za If you have an alternative please let us know... Thanks David Poole Breakfast Included www.breakfastincluded.co.za Ed. The ad that we ran read: Due to the phenomenal response of the recent David Gresham Records (DGR) chill out track campaign, a closing date has been set for Monday 31 March 2004. Andrew Mitchley from DGR has commented that the quality of the local chill out productions is of an exceptionally high standard and the interest shown has been overwhelming. "It has been really difficult shortlisting 30 possible tracks from about 200 submissions." DGR will be contacting the producers shortly after the March 31st deadline, informing them as to whether or not their tracks will be used on the compilation. If you still want to submit tracks for the compilation, please feel free to submit your work to any of the following address: Please mark it Attention: Andrew Mitchley (Chill Out Tracks) 59 Bowling Avenue, Kramerville, Sandton P O Box 46020, Orange Grove, 2119, South Africa -------------- OLD HITS AND MEMORIES Hi, Once in a while I see the names of old songs that were hits in the '60's or '70's in South Africa, which bring some memories back. However you never heard of them again or you would not see them on CD. However, maybe someone's got the 7 single or recovered the song from vinyl to CD, etc. Could anyone help me with the following songs: 1. 'Maar in Amerika' - Roy Memphis 2. 'Sailing' - Fuzz 3. 'Touch too much' - The Arrows Hope someone will issue a CD with all these 1 Hit Wonders in South Africa. Regards Cobus Cobus Nieuwoudt Mailto:jmnieuwoudt@icon.co.za -------------- A GEMM OF AN IDEA Hi, Thanks for a great mag. Just to say that the GEMM site is terrific. They found one of the most obscure LPs - Paul Parrish's first one called 'Songs' issued in 1971 - for me. Delivery took some time but the quality of the old vinyl was very good. Lindsay Mailto:lindsay@openup.co.za GEMM http://sugarmusic.gemm.com -------------- WHERE'S BILLY FORREST? Hi there, I'm a South African living in Denver, Colorado. I have lost touch with my mate, Billy Forrest, a friend since mad days in Jo'burg in the mid-Seventies. PLEASE can you help me find him via email address, snailmail, whatever. Great site-good to keep in touch with SA Rock. Thanks for your help, Cyril Gold Mailto:jucydenver@aol.com -------------- SOME GOOD NEWS WANTED HERE Hi, I am searching for the track 'Give Me The Good News' by Crocodile Harris on CD, either compilation or original. The 1982 release or the 1994 remix or any other would be acceptable. Can you source this? Sincerely James Dean Mailto:jgmdean@comcast.net Ed - 'Give Me The Good News' is very hard to find on CD. The album with the same title has never been re-issued on CD and the 2 compilations that included this classic song are both out-of-print. Robin Graham (Harris's real name) told us recently that he is planning a 'Greatest Hits' CD ... well here's hoping. -------------- FACE TO FACE WITH FACE TO FACE Hi, I am trying to find CD's by the SA band of the 80's called Face to Face. I think titles were: 'Here We Are' and 'Night of the Long Knives'. Thanks Derek Millar mailto:derekmillar@optusnet.com.au 'Here We Are' by Face To Face can be found on the 'SA Top 40 Artists Of All Time' CD along with hits by Springbok N*de G*rls, Just Jinger, The Flames, Bright Blue, Peanut Butter Conspiracy, Boo!, BLK Sonshine and many, many others. http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321&id=stidfcd037 -------------- OLD CLASSIC MP3'S? Hi, Where can I get downloads of old classics such as - 'For your precious love' - The Flames, 'Sounds of silence' - The Awakening, and 'Cry to me' - The Staccatos. Thanks, Cynthia Mailto:cynthia@adept.co.za 'Sounds Of Silence' by the Awakening is available at SAmp3.com. -------------- SA CHART LISTS? Hi, I have seen several references to the Springbok or SA Top 20 prior to 1969, but have never been able to locate an actual list of these songs. Is there a possibility of obtaining such a list, ie similar to the one for 1969-1989? I'm looking for a few songs from the 70's released by SA artists. Could you please indicate whether they are commercially available, preferably on CD, if you know: 1. Fuzz - Sailing 2. Barbara Ray - Like I do 3. Buttercup - Baby love affair 4. Dave Mills - All the tears in the world 5. Dealians - When love comes knocking 6. Denise Freeman - A shoulder to cry on 7. Gries Heimer - Bonely bonela 8. McCully Workshop - Why can't it rain 9. Tidal Wave - Mango mango Thanks! Leon Rossouw Mailto:leonr@intekom.co.za -------------- NICO CARSTENS WANTED Hi, All I want to find out is the place where I can buy the records listed in the Album Discography. Appreciate soon response since I'm visiting South Africa in March 2004. Thanks, Mathias Egler Mailto:Matz.Egler@t-online.de NICO CARSTENS http://www.cd.co.za/legends/nicocarstens/ -------------- BREYTEN LYRICS HI, Please can you help? I'm trying to find the Afrikaans lyrics to the track "Jy gee geboorte aan jou asem/blomme vir boeddha" by Breyten Breytenbach, from his album "Mondmusiek". I'd be grateful for any suggestions. Kind regards, Greg. Mailto:hypersurf@btinternet.com ED. - We suggest you buy the CD, the lyrics are in the booklet... http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321&id=rr002 -------------- WHERE IS JOHN FROM STREET RECORDS? Hi Re: Street Records I read with interest John Samson talking about Sharon Tandy and how she worked at Street Records in Braamfontein, JHB (across the road from Wits). Street, both as a retail shop and as a record library, played a major part of my musical education. Does anyone know what happened to John who used to own Street? I have no doubt that many people are grateful, for John, Sharon and Street. I am. Many thanks David Becker Sydney, Australia Mailto:kdbecker@intercoast.com.au Ed. John Ackerman is very well and living in Johannesburg and is currently working on new SA band development. John's son Joshua has his own band called 3Speed and they are currently recording their debut album in Johannesburg. -------------- IMPI 3 Howzit I just wanted to charf yous about that lekker ou Jah Luka. I really dig his songs like 'Scatterings of Africa' and 'Spirit of the Grey Tart'. Although he's called Jah, it's not really reggay, but it still makes me feel irate. Johnny from Boksburg -------------- GOT A QUESTION? Please email any musical questions to editor@sarockdigest.com ----------------------------- THE DIGEST CLASSIFIED ADS ----------------------------- To advertise in this section please email: editor@sarockdigest.com -------------- VINYL CUTTINGS Dear Sir, If you or anyone you know require vinyl cutting we can do this for very cheap (as little as £7.50, any tune). The vinyl itself is not laquer and will last as long as a pressed record. Please email me - mailto:dirtrecords2003@yahoo.com - or check out the site at www.dirtrecords.co.uk -------------- DAMO SUZUKI FROM CAN Hi, I am in e-mail contact with Damo Suzuki, vocalist with the Krautrock band Can for 3 years in the early '70s, and these days involved in experimental/ alternative / improvisational material, particularly live performances around the world. He has expressed an interest in performing in South Africa (he says that he currently has a slot free in his world tour programme for a few days in November 2004). I have been looking around for people and places involved in this field in South Africa who might be able to recommend suitable venues or promoters who could organise a few gigs, with audiences of a few hundred at a time upwards (preferably at least one in Joburg, so's I get to hear him too!!!), but so far without success. Wondered if you might be able to help or put me in touch with someone who can? I append a couple of reviews from fairly recent shows for your info. If you can give me any pointers, I'd appreciate it. Regards, Ian Napier Mailto:iann@aflife.co.za PS Many of the people on this forum probably don't know much about the mighty Damo Suzuki, so perhaps a little background information is in order: CAN By Kevin McHugh In Germany there was a group called Can. In the years 1970-73 they produced some of the most remarkable music in the world, combining the formal modernism of composers such as Stockhausen with various ethnic music, improvisation, and driving hard rock to create some of the most interesting prog music the world has ever heard, before or since. Kenji "Damo" Suzuki, Can's unique vocalist/frontman, was crucial to their unique sound. He was discovered on the streets of Munich by 2 members of Can. Their previous singer, an American named Malcolm Mooney, had left the group to return to the U.S., leaving them with gigs but no singer. As the 2 Can members walked down the street, they discovered Damo "worshipping the sun" and decided then and there to invite him to sing for the group. He agreed, and ended up staying 3 years. For those into Krautrock/German prog, most agree that Damo's years with Can were their best, wildest, most interesting, and most productive. However, in 1973 Damo left the group, and a slow decline in the quality of their music ensued until they disbanded in 1977. Fast forward to the late '80s. After pursuing various non-musical interests, Damo re-enters the world of music, working with various individuals from Can and others. His career picks up in the '90s as his recorded output proliferates: 2 CD sets are common, and there's even a 7-CD box called 'P.R.O.M.I.S.E.' His concerts generate awe-struck reviews and non-cheesy comparisons to '60s love ins: it's as if he's a genuine shaman, casting spells over his willing audience. As an old Can head, I finally decided that I had lived long enough without witnessing Damo in action. When I learned that he would be making a rare North American appearance in Chicago on February 22, I knew that it was TIME!! So my wife and I hopped on the train for the 9-hour ride from central Missouri to Chicago to stay with a music-loving pal. On Saturday night we braved the wind-blown, sub-freezing streets of Chicago to visit the Fireside Bowl, a near-derelict bowling alley slowly falling into ruin. The first two bands on the bill were Timeout Drawer and Midstate. Both bands were synth-oriented indy rock, and although they were OK in their way, ultimately I found them dull. Lots of mid-tempo stuff and diluted pop sensibilities that occasionally hit the space rock realms, but too often subsided into boredom. By this time the crowd was around 300. Most were young indy-types, but there were some old Can campaigners mixed in. Damo's backup group, Defender, hit the stage first, and I was surprised and delighted at their sound; more so as the evening progressed. Damo finally hit the stage, looking like a 30-year-older replica of his 1972 self - cool!! Eyes shut tight in concentration, he chanted his lyrics, bringing the group to higher and higher peaks of intensity without showboating or overshadowing the other musicians. The bass had a cool echo effect throughout the night, while the guitar had a thin, trebly, distorted sound much like Can guitarist Michael Karoli's (RIP). The drum sound varied from steady, piledriving beats to octopus-like virtuosity, as the situation demanded. He was LOUD!! Bits and pieces of old Can songs surfaced, such as the drum intro to 'Oh Yeah' off of the classic 'Tago Mago.' It also seemed like I heard the trademark guitar figure from 'Mother Sky' from 'Soundtracks,' but maybe it was only a hallucination. Who knows? Although I have most of Damo's solo stuff, I'm not so familiar with it that I can instantly pick out the tunes, which are in any case characterized by lots of improvisation. The music was characterized by long (10-20 minute) songs with lots of clench-and-release energy. Really, it was the avant/prog/rocking sound of early '70s Can, updated for the 21st century. Damo led the proceedings in his totally unique style, varying his delivery between soft chanting, conventional singing, yelping, and screaming. A couple of times he even threw in some Fat Albert throat singing. Believe me, you've never heard anything like it. With the help of Defender, he had the crowd bobbing and dancing in place and cheering like mofos. When the drummer's bass drum pedal broke, forcing him to play standing up, there was an ovation when the pedal was replaced and the thumps restored. Clearly, there is a magic about Damo that makes people groove on his driving, psychedelic music, whether they've heard it before or not. When the set finally ended, after 1½ hours that seemed like mere minutes, there were plenty of congratulatory hugs to go around, without a hint of self-consciousness. I could easily have listened to hours more. There are not many space/prog groups from the early '70s that have made it to the present day with their integrity intact; King Crimson and Hawkwind come to mind. Damo, with his quiet, unpretentious offstage manner and his maniacal, shamanistic stage presence, can easily be counted with the best. The 9-hour train rides and gulag cold of Chicago were mere annoyances; Damo was more than worth it. Kevin McHugh And, if you want to know what a Damo Suzuki gig is like, read on: ECCENTRIC IN TRIPLICATE Oct 31 2003 By Rob Nichols, Evening Gazette I had an awesome experience at Stockton's Georgian Theatre ... the legendary vocalist Damo Suzuki from Krautrock pioneers Can dropped in for a two-hour set of what he describes as Instant Communication. In each town on his tour a group of musicians clamber on stage and improvise their way through a long and twisting set with Damo's special vocals at the heart of it. On Monday, the Oxnard brothers Tim and Nathan, Nobby on drums, Andrew Johnson provided the beat and hum to Damo's fire. He describes the process as being like primitive communication, pre language, just musical smoke signals, in effect. Standing head hung low centre stage, long hair covering his face, Damo held the room transfixed. Behind him he saw off two complete band changes - mid song! And still had time, energy and words for more. At the end he simply stepped down off the stage and shook every member of the audience by the hand and thanked us for coming. What a guy.. After 2 hours of hard-core sound, he sent everyone home with ears ringing and warm personal glow. Damo Suzuki with Defender: Jorge Ledezma (Guitar), Gabor Meszoros (Bass) and Angel Ledezma (Drums) February 22 2003 USA Chicago, IL Fireside Bowl -------------- I NEED A BAND! Hi, I'm Mikki, a female vocalist looking for a band to perform with. My influences are Elle Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, etc. Blues, Jazz, Hip Hop and world Music. I write my own blues songs, please phone 082 689 0355. Thanx Mikki Mailto:mizzpresident2002@yahoo.com -------------- CAPE DRUMMER WANTED Our band consists of me (21), a guitarist (17), another guitarist (18), a vocalist (20). We play metal-rock. The drummer's age don't matter too much, as long as he got his own drumset (preferably double bass) and own transport because our "soundlab" is in Paarl. Ruan Kriel. My phone number is 0844075364. -------------- LOOKING TO EARN EXTRA MONEY IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY? This is an interesting new SA music business concept. We suggest you take a good look at this opportunity. Simply send a blank e-mail to mailto:lazyman200@freeautobot.com to receive further info. (Ed. - Nope, it's not spam, but genuine and potentially worthwhile, and anyone can do it!) -------------- RECORDS RESTORED TO CD Have your favourite LP transferred to CD with full colour label and box printing. We restore the LP music/tracks in order to extract the original sound, before transferring them to CD. Only single copies are made and returned with the LP. What is done... 1. Firstly, your precious LP is put through our professional record cleaning machine to ensure that we start with as pure an original sound as possible. 2. We then play the record on the very best audiophile equipment (Thorens turntable, SME arm with Shure V15-III cartridge) and capture the music at a high sample rate, into our "Top of the Range" computer. 3. The Vinyl background noise and "Fried Eggs" sounds are gently removed from the recording. 4. Any remaining "Pops" or "Clicks" are isolated and repaired and the tracks are separated as on the original LP. 5. Then, and only then, do we copy the sound to CD. 6. Finally, the LP cover is scanned front and rear, reduced to fit and printed in full glorious colour. A label is printed for the disc itself in full colour, as on the original. There is a range of prices from R65.00 to R120.00 - depending on the postage costs, and the required and desired degree of cleanup on your single copy. Contact: Terence Tel: 021-787-0205 or Cell: 082-939-077 Email: Mailto:tegner@absamail.co.za -------------- STRAWBS WANT TO TOUR SA! Dave Cousins, from the legendary band Strawbs, is looking for an agent to assist with a proposed acoustic trio tour during 2004. Please contact strawbs@rock.co.za?subject=strawbs ----------------- MUSIC SHOPPING ----------------- MASSIVE MUSIC SALE The 1st ever Massive Music Sale in South Africa This "Music Sale" is a brand new independent music market for the retailer/ distributor to achieve more customers, new clients & record sales. And it brings together an unparalleled selection of music professionals. Giving you the opportunity by reaching the right people in this vast untapped continent. You now have the possibility to participate on 7000 sq. meters and hire a stand to fit your need over a 3-day period, on the busiest street in South Africa. Invites will also be sent to various European and other African distributors to come here and sell their product, plus also make new clients in S.A. This invite is open to one and all in the music & entertainment industry. As space is limited, booking is essential. First come, first booked. Benefits: Buyers get a better idea of the music selection that is available to them. You have the opportunity to make new contacts and future clients. We bring selected stores and clients together. A chance to promote your music. Doors will be open to the public to come and buy and see what's on offer. Advertising in newspapers, radio and posters. TV interviews are planned. 24 hour security. 450 parking bays on site. Food and drinks available. This will be a bi-annual event, and preference will be given to first time participants. Space will be rented out from 25, 50, 100 or 200 sq meters. THE VENUE: Madiba Village, 2 Eloff Str. (opp. Dorkay House) DATES: Friday 26th March - Sunday 28th March TRADING TIMES: 10am - 7pm. OUR MOTTO: Let others share your success. Be open to a visionary future. Respect your competitors. CONTACT: Anton van Dongen Tell: +27(83) 265 5337 Fax: +27 (11) 880 0996 Email:info@smugmusic.co.za -------------- GEMM GEMM is your best source for those otherwise impossible-to-find music titles on Record or CD! http://sugarmusic.gemm.com -------------- MABU VINYL & CD Cape Town's finest record and CD store is now at the intersection - "Where the four streets - Long, Buitensingel, Kloof, and Orange - meet" Visit our new CD Stall on the Pavement Piazza in front of the shop opposite the Long Street Baths. Mabu stocks SA and International Record and CD titles, and a growing list of independent SA CD and CD-R releases - including a large range of all the African Dope releases. Latest Vinyl additions: David Kramer - 'Eina' (LP) David Kramer - 'The Story Of Blokkies Joubert' (LP) Falling Mirror - 'Shattered' (LP) Falling Mirror - 'Zen Boulders' (LP) 4 Jacks And A Jill - 'Greatest Hits' (LP) PJ Powers - 'Thandeka' (LP) Latest independent SA CD additions: Bed On Bricks - 'Humanarium' (Bowline) Bluescream - 'Bluescream' (Independent) Daniel Friedman - 'High Society presents: 14 Steps towards Self Actualisation' (Independent) Brian Finch - 'Never Look Back' (Independent) Fokofpolisiekar - 'As Jy Met Vuur Speel Sal Jy Brand' (EP) (Rhythm) freshlyground - 'Jika Jika' (Independent) Forest Moon - 'Forest Moon' (Independent) Goema Captains Of Cape Town - 'Healing Destination' (Mountain) Hog Hoggidy Hog - 'Naked' EP (3 Chord) Kalahari Surfers - 'Muti Media' (African Dope) Lazarus - 'Parallax View' (EP) (Independent) Lions Of Zion - 'Iternal Fire' (Independent) MoodPhase5ive - 'Steady On' (African Dope) The Rudimentals - 'More Fire' (Independent) Not The Midnight Mass - 'Live At The Planetarium' (Independent) Nukular Stompers - 'Can Of Worms' (Independent) Soulja - '21 Gunslut' (Independent) Various - 'Silvertab Harambe Dope Sessions' (African Dope) Various - 'African Dope Sound System' (African Dope) Various - 'Cape Of Good Dope' (African Dope) Various - 'Breathe Sunshine' (Amabala) Various - 'A Moment In Cape Town' (Revised edition) (Afribeat) Zero Tolerance - 'A Perfect Life?' (EP) (Independent) This week's Best Selling CDs at Mabu Vinyl & CD are: 1. 'More Fire' - The Rudimentals 2. 'African Dope Sound System' - Various 3. 'As Jy Met Vuur Speel Sal Jy Brand' (EP) - Fokofpolisiekar 4. 'Steady On' - Moodphase5ive 5. 'Jika Jika' - freshlyground We buy and sell LP's and CD's Please contact: Jacques or Stephen (Ph): 021 423 7635 (Cell): 082 534 6006 mailto:mabu@sugarmusic.co.za Mabu Vinyl & CD Shop 2 Buitenkloof Centre 8 Kloof Street, Gardens. ------------------------------------------ VIBES VINYL Stadium-on-Main, Main Road, Claremont Our catalogue is now listed on the UK's No.1 Music Marketplace Netsounds and can be accessed directly at http://www.netsounds.com/vibesvinyl This week's specials: Anton Goosen - 'Jors Troelie' (LP) Group 2 - 'The Sensational Group 2' (LP) Mynie Grove - 'Iets Anders' (LP) Luigi - 'This Is My Song' (LP) Ken Mullan - 'Give Her All The Roses' (LP) Frank Naude - 'Love Under Fire' (LP) Gert Potgieter - 'The Song Of My Life' (LP) Gert Potgieter - 'One Day Of Your Life' (LP) Gert Potgieter - 'Mine Is A Song Of Songs' (LP) Gert Potgieter - 'Dreams Are Good Friends' (LP) Leon Schuster - 'Briekdans' (LP) We pay top prices for top quality. Want Lists Welcome! Call us at: 021-683 5676 Postal address: PO Box 24045, Claremont, 7735. mailto:claus@vibesvinyl.com Website catalogue now also at Gemm and Netsounds: http://www.vibesvinyl.gemm.com and http://www.netsounds.com/vibesvinyl ----------------- ONE WORLD - ONLINE SA CD STORE Selling South African Music to the World http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 ---------------------- DEEP PURPLE FANS The very popular Deep Purple Web Index - the ultimate Deep Purple resource on the web - now has a new home at http://www.deeppurple.co.za -------------- VAGABOND MUSIC & WEB (now part of the Sugar Music Group) Get your band or business online. We design from scratch or take over the maintenance when your hotshot designer gets bored with updating. Our design philosophy is to create sites that pull people in and keep them coming back, through user-friendly designs, good web architecture and cost-effective web-marketing. If you want a quick, friendly and fun website, then Vagabond Music Web is your answer. Vagabond Clients include: Jam Alley Music Shop, Joint State, Duncan Mackay, Bluescream, Street Level, Fresh Music, Rhythm Records, Entertainment Industry Services, Piet Botha, Off The Edge, 25 Hour Studio, Gregs Golf Tours, 4 Sure Golf Tours, James Stewart, Tait, Bright Blue, Jack Hammer, Janie Jones, Brian Finch, Soil 7t7, Rodriguez, Steve Louw and Big Sky, Lorraine Shannon, Joe Public. Please contact Brian on 082-567-8779 or visit http://www.sugarmusic.co.za for more info. ------------------------------ SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC QUOTA COALITION Support the SAMQC, as this SA musicians' initiative, looking to greatly increase the amounts of SA music played on the nation's radio stations. Join the movement, sign up, or read more at http://www.samqc.org.za --------------- RODRIGUEZ One of the most frequently Asked Questions on the Sugarman.org Forum is where to buy Rodriguez CDs. Well, you can buy Rodriguez CDs online at http://www.oneworld.co.za ---------------------------- DIGEST CLASSIFIEDS DETAILS * To have your advert featured in the Digest Classifieds, and to find out the prices to do so, contact mailto:sugar@cd.co.za The Sound Solutions and Digest Classified sections are sponsored by: SUGAR MUSIC http://www.sugarmusic.co.za Contact: Stephen Segerman - sugar@cd.co.za LIVE MUSIC
RECOMMENDED SA GIGS See http://www.sagigs.com EVENTS: Full details at http://www.sagigs.com Watch out for: STEVE LOUW AND BIG SKY - At the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 22 February 2004, at 18h00. DAVE GOLDBLUM - the acoustic guitarist and singer-songwriter, will be performing at Distrix, a stone's throw from The Castle in Cape Town, on Thursday the 19th of Feb. SUPERFINE - Tuesday 7 Feb - Superfine and Afrotone - Independent Armchair Theatre - Observatory - 9:00pm - R10 KAREN ZOID - Karen is performing two special live shows on the 20th and 21st of February at the Centurion Theatre, Pretoria. THE KLIPPIES AND COLA STUDENT SESSIONS - These Sessions are aimed at establishing a campus-centred live music circuit, primarily at UCT and Stellenbosch University and their surrounding areas. Regional bands, including Afrotone, Andy & Stef, Arbor, Fly Paper Jet, Nick Turner & Dave vd Linden Fokofpolisiekar, Superfine, and the The Buckfever Underground are paired and perform together on consecutive Tuesdays at Die Mystic Boer and The Independent Armchair Theatre. DAN PATLANSKY AND THE MISSISSIPPI MUTHERS - More February dates announced. THE RUDIMENTALS - Cape Town's ska-punk sensations have lined up a string of gigs over the next few weeks. VUSI MAHLASELA AND JUDITH SEPHUMA - Vusi Mahlasela and Judith Sephuma, two of BMG Africa's biggest names, will be headlining gigs at the Giant Steps Music Festival at Spier in Stellenbosch in March 2004. BOO! IN EUROPE - All those dates for BOO!'s current European Tour UPCOMING INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS IN SA: COUNTING CROWS - The popular US band, fronted by Adam Duritz, will be returning to SA in March to promote their new, greatest hits album, 'Films About Ghosts' WITCHDOCTOR RECORDS ANNOUNCES SA TOURS BY ENTOMBED, AND KATAKLYSM - Entombed, those Swedish masters of metal return to our shores for two exclusive shows in April, and Kataklysm, the Swedish masters of metal return to our shores for two exclusive shows in May SMOKIE - This successful '70's/'80's pop group is still "firing on all five cylinders" and will be touring South Africa in 2004 on 'The Hit Box Tour '04' from 25 February onwards. NEW MODEL ARMY - Alter-Ego Productions is proud to announce the forthcoming tour to South Africa of this "legendary" band in March 2004 SA MUSIC FESTIVALS SOUTHERN CROSS MUSIC FESTIVAL - The three-day Southern Cross Music Festival is known as "The Friendly Festival" and takes place from 19-22 March 2004 in the Hidden Valley in KwaZulu Natal THE CAPE TOWN FESTIVAL - The Cape Town Festival is the Mother City's premiere arts and cultural showcase, bringing together the best in local and international dance, visual arts, music, film, photography, spoken word, theatre and nightlife - 14 to 22 March 2004 NORTH SEA JAZZ FESTIVAL - CAPE TOWN 2004 - "Africa's Grandest Gathering" is about to celebrate its 5th anniversary in April 2004, and it will be doing so in style in its new home at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on the Mother City's Foreshore. With Angie Stone, Femi Kuti, Stanley Clarke, freshlyground, Abdullah Ibrahim, Cassandra Wilson and Miriam Makeba. SPLASHY FEN 2004 - One of our country's best loved open-air lifestyle celebration promises the freshest ever delights for body and mind on the Easter weekend, April 8 - 12 -------------- -------------- OTHER ITEMS -------------- STEVE LOUW & BIG SKY Steve Louw and Big Sky are a phenomenal live rock act and their stunning show has played to sold out audiences around South Africa. Big Sky backed Rodriguez on his first sold-out tour of South Africa in 1999, performing to capacity crowds at the Bellville Velodrome and Johannesburg's Standard Bank Arena. Steve Louw was last seen live in Cape Town at the '46664' concert which was in aid of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The sell-out show at Green Point Stadium raised millions for AIDS relief in South Africa. Louw co-wrote and performed the anthem 'Amandla' with Dave Stewart, Anastasia and Brian May. They were joined on stage by Bono, Beyoncé and Youssou N'dour in a finale to the show. Big Sky, who won a South African Music Award for "Best Rock Album" in 1996, will be performing some of their classic hits such as 'Waiting For the Dawn', 'Strange Room', 'Going down With Mr Green', and 'One Cut With a Knife' as well as new songs from their latest album release 'Beyond the Blue'. The first two singles off the album, 'The Road Ahead' and 'Carry Me To You', are receiving extensive airplay on national radio stations and the album looks set to be another hit for Steve and the band. Rock guitarist and singer/songwriter, Steve Louw, will be joined on stage by Willem Moller on guitar (who has played alongside Louw for twenty years and who was one of the mainstays of the Voelvry tour, as well as being the musical director on Johannes Kerkorrel's seminal Eet Kreef album), Peter Cohen on drums (Bright Blue, Mango Groove, freashlyground), Schalk Joubert on bass (Anton Goosen, Valient Swart) and Simon Orange on keyboards (Blues Broers, Frosted Orange). At the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre in Stellenbosch on Sunday, 22 February 2004, at 18h00. Tickets are R35 seated and R15 on the lawn and are available by phoning (021) 809-7380 for credit card bookings. Tickets are also available at the venue on the day of the show. The venue is open from early afternoon. (For further details please contact Lynne at (021) 438-1261.) READ LISTEN BUY http://www.SteveLouw.com -------------- 'UBUNTU NITES' 22 February - Ponana Courtyard, Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town - 19h00 Ubuntu Records is hosting a series of mind-blowing events around the country and internationally to showcase some of South Africa's hottest musical talent. Various popular South African bands have been lined up to perform at each event, while Ross Webb, Ubuntu's resident DJ and VJ, will also be there, re-mixing up-tempo original South African music. The first evening will take place in the courtyard of Ponana on Heritage Square on February the 22nd of February and features two of Cape Town's hottest bands - Amampondo and Freshlyground. There is no question that Amampondo is South Africa's top percussion and marimba group. Formed 25 years ago, the group chose this name to reflect their strong desire to preserve Southern African traditional music and instruments. Since then they have toured the world extensively, having played in over 30 countries - from the Edinburgh festival - to Reunion - to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Atlanta - to Taiwan - to the WOMAD Festival at Reading - to Wembley, where they were asked to play at Nelson Mandela's seventieth birthday concert - to mention but a few. More recently they played their role in the Nelson Mandela '46664' Concert, sharing the stage with top international DJ Paul Oakenfold and super-group Queen. Amampondo's dynamic, pulsating performance traverses cultural and musical boundaries, making them the popular percussion ensemble they are today. In just two short years, freshlyground has become Cape Town's hottest musical property. A memorable performance before President Thabo Mbeki at the opening of Parliament and celebration of 10 years of democracy, coupled with playing to a delighted capacity crowd at Kirstenbosh the weekend before, proves that freshlyground's universal appeal is taking them from strength to strength. Lead singer Zolani Mahola's spellbinding voice has captivated a wide range of audiences, leaving them begging for more. This is a band that must not be missed. Ross has been DJ'ing since he was just twelve years old and has played extensively both across the country and around the globe. For the 'Unbuntu Nites', Ross will combine footage of South Africa with awe-inspiring music to tell a story breathtaking in its visual beauty, as well as inspiring in its choice of African beats, voices and tales. Over a two or three hour set, the story of South African music will be told in a unique way. 'Ubuntu Nites' are sure to become a regular fixture on the South African music monthly calendar. Experience an unforgettable evening of African music under an African sky. Tickets are just R40 and are available at the door. For more information call 021 423 4889. -------------- RP STUDIOS EMERGING SOUNDS COMPETITION 2004 The February rounds of the RP Studios Emerging Sounds competition are underway and last Friday the monthly Durban leg took place with the weekly Johannesburg leg on the following Saturday. Congratulations to Higher Ground, chosen as the January regional finals of the RP Studios Emerging Sounds competition at the Coliseum Show Bar, Caesars, Gauteng on Sunday, February 8. There was standing room only as the panel of 15 music industry judges had the task of deciding on the best emerging group of the month. Higher Ground won recording time at RP Studios where Darryl Torr from Openroom Productions will engineer them. Also in action on Sunday - Hiccup from Sasolburg who are improving in leaps and bounds every time they perform on stage; Cherry Pill from Johannesburg whose use of the violin and two female vocalists put them in good standing for a viable musical future and Mr Smug from Durban whose performance on stage would put 80% of other SA punk bands to shame. Upcoming dates: Saturday, February 21 · Skin Deep · Aniline · Sentev Saturday, February 28 - Johannesburg finals · Failsafe · So Called Friends Johannesburg leg - Saturday, March 6 -Tempos - 191 Hans Strydom, Kyasands, Randburg Event starts at 15:00 · Blueprint Vaal Leg - Friday, March 26 Perfect Manhatten - Three Rivers RP Studios has been sponsoring this event for the past six years and if you visit their website - www.rpstudios.co.za - you can soon see a 360 degree view of the studios. For further information contact Peter Jaquire on (011) 714 4666. For further information contact Simon "Squire" Foulds on 082 770 7524 --------------- SA PUNK By Daniel Neville NITRO, BLOOD, A LIGHTER AND A KNIFE - DURANGO95 TOUR It's very rare to get an international band coming to grace the shores of our bountiful country, fortunately for us there seem to be more and more international bands that are deciding that South Africa is a good place to visit. Even high profile acts like Limp Bizkit are deciding to come and grace us with their presence (Um, not any more - Ed.). But now I have news of a different sort and from the underground (well, more underground that Limp Bizkit). Durango95 will be paying a special visit to our shores. I have listened to some mp3 tracks that are on this German punk as f**k band and I must say I really like the sound of them coming to visit. Not knowing much about the band I have decided not to tell you about them but rather let them do it themselves, in the form of this little press release that they sent me: "Durango95 got together in Munster, Germany sometime in early '99.mixing ex-and current members of Enfold, Soma, Hybris, The Now-Denial and High Score - five bands with quite different musical backgrounds, it seemed only natural to settle on one common ground: punkrock". "There are no concepts behind Durango95 but doing the music we love and singing the words we feel. Heartfelt music, you could say. Or honesty. Or pathetic, choose for yourself. We grew up with punk/hardcore and it helped us to stay sane and to survive. The one purpose we got with this band is to try and give back some of the energy and awareness punk rock and the kids in it have given and are still giving to us." "We released a well-received five-song seven-inch called "another day spent. Another life lost " on Bushido Records in spring '00, played lots of shows with lots of bands, and went to England for a few days with our brothers from high score." "We recorded our first long player 'Destroy, F**k You' in 2001, also released on Bushido Records; containing thirteen songs and nineteen minutes full of anger. With our new eleven-song recording "take me away ", we changed labels from Bushido Records to ... Stereodrive! Records. A little bit more melodic and catchier than the old Durango stuff, but as hard hitting as the songs you're used to. Concerning the lyrics and the songwriting of "Take me away ", you will recognize a big progression to a more straightforward playing punk rock outfit. This new album is to the point and makes it hard for you to catch your breath! The release tour will take us away on a tour to South Africa in February '04 is already booked, more shows are to come." Watch this space for the full tour dates. In the mean time you can visit www.durango95.de and have some fun there. -------------- THE KNIFE FIGHT FESTIVAL This is the second all day festival that has happened in the Cape Town area in 5 months, so there is great excitement in the air. This time the festival is based more in the northern suburbs so there are a lot more Northern bands on the bill. Ivan Ferreira is organising the Fest and when I asked him what to expect he told me this: "It is a DIY festival. We don't want to go Woodstock - Oppikoppi or any thing like that! The fest will be small - 1500 kids moshing to the very best sounds of the underground. It's a festival organised by band members. No politics whatsoever. It's the Cape Town scene getting together and making a difference. We have a lot of amazing bands here in Cape Town." "Some of them don't get the exposure 'cause they are not based in Johannesburg or Pretoria and they don't sound like Tweak or the Finkelstiens. They are not part of that crowd who's running the scene over there. This will be the very first Knife Fight Fest - we are keeping it simple for now - just checking stuff out. Trying new things. Call it an experiment. The festival will not come and go - big plans for the future." The fest will cost you R50 and it will start at 10:30 am, and, as Ivan said, look forward to a day full of good music and I've been told that there will be some rad merch on sale. It takes place at the Lemon Connection in Bellville and the following bands will be playing: The Watermark High, Neshamah, Emo Kid Josh, Hog Hoggidy Hog, Sacraphyx, Toyland, Fokofpolisiekar, Half Price, Perfect Day, The Rudimentals, 7th Breed, Tonight We Die, Petflyz, and the finals of the Young Guns Battle of the Bands. ------------------ SA PUNK GIG GUIDE: CAPE TOWN - STONES, LONG STREET - Tues 19 Feb (R20, 10pm) The Rudimentals The Tornados CAPE TOWN - CLAREMONT CIVIC CENTRE - Fri 20 Feb (R15, 7pm) Sedwick CD Launch Sedwick Captain Stu and the Llamas Serving Suggestion. BELLVILLE - LEMON CONNECTION - Sat 21 Feb (R50, 10am) THE KNIFE FIGHT FESTIVAL The Watermark High, Neshamah, Emo Kid Josh, Hog Hoggidy Hog, Sacraphyx, Toyland, Fokofpolisiekar, Half Price, Perfect Day, The Rudimentals, 7th Breed, Tonight We Die, Petflyz, and the Final of Young Guns Battle of the Bands DURBAN - BURN - Sat 21 Feb (R20,10pm) Mr. Smug Punk/Ska show. Merch on sale at the gig too. Daniel Neville Mailto:daniel@neville.za.net See http://www.SAgigs.com for details and other SA Punk gigs. ---------------------------- -------------- LIVE IN SA -------------- TUNE IN TO STATION 70 Ex-McCully Workshop drummer and composer of the classic 1978 hit 'Buccaneer', Mike McCullagh, has put together another season of the all-hit show 'Station 70'. McCullagh has been putting on live reviews since the early '90's with shows like the very successful Sixty Something series, Beatlemania and Music Of The Millennium. Station 70 is a live show based on an imaginary radio station including a DJ, a playlist of '70's hits and some very humorous adverts. The cast of 11 (band, singers and DJ) not only perform the songs supremely well, but also include many costume changes to keep the interest high. Keyboardist James Dobson does Billy Joel, Elton John and Riff Raff (from 'Rocky Horror') but his take on Mick Jagger doing 'Brown Sugar' is totally true-to-form. The show is full of highlights and special moments, such as Felicity B's vocals on 'Help!', Marlene Hay's sax solo during 'Baker Street' and Jason Guile's guitar solo on 'Smoke On The Water'. And I loved the moment during 'Baker Street' when the lyrics go "he's like a rolling stone" and the band play a short riff of 'Jumping Jack Flash'. The playlist is varied and includes songs from artists as diverse as Pink Floyd, Abba, Jethro Tull and Tina Turner. South African artists are also honoured by the inclusion of homegrown hits such as Joy's 'Paradise Road' and McCully Workshop's 'Buccaneer', sung by the composer himself! Station 70 has completed its run at the Theatre of the Bay in Camps Bay and has now moved to Monte Cassino in Gauteng. If you grew up in the '70's or just love the sound of good pop and rock played extremely well, don't miss this. And how I wish there was a real radio station that played music this good. (BC) ----------------------- SA GIG GUIDE The SA Rock Digest list of recommended gigs can now be found at: http://www.SAgigs.com. If you cannot access SAgigs.com then e-mail gigs@sarockdigest.com?subject=gigguide and we will e-mail the gig guide to you each week. Please send all gig info to sugar@sagigs.com in a plain text e-mail. SA Music Links And Resources
SA MUSIC LINKS: THE SA ROCK ENCYCLOPEDIA WEBLINKS PAGE: Links to the world of SA Rock - artists, gig guides, resources, record labels, recording studios, music trivia and more at: http://www.sarockdigest.com/links ---------------------------- SA MUSIC RESOURCES: THE SA ROCK DIGEST ON SAFM (104-107KHz) THE BRUCE MILLAR SHOW - MONDAY EVENINGS @ 9.15PM Stephen Segerman, Digest co-editor, talks to Bruce Millar about SA music news, new releases, and charts from each week's Digest. ---------------------------- SA ROCK DIGEST CONTACT DETAILS: SUBSCRIPTIONS: To subscribe to The SA Rock Digest - please send an e-mail to: subscribe@sarockdigest.com Address changes - please send an e-mail to: subscribe@sarockdigest.com To unsubscribe - please send a blank e-mail to: unsubscribe@sarockdigest.com ---------------------------- SA ROCK DIGEST BACK ISSUES http://www.sarockdigest.com/archives Online and keyword searchable ---------------------------- PRESS RELEASES & CONTRIBUTIONS Please submit all press releases, contributions, reviews, requests, searches and comments to sugar@sarockdigest.com ---------------------------- EDITORS Any thoughts, requests, problems, complaints, praise or interesting and relevant SA music news, CDs, or mp3s... please contact: Stephen Segerman sugar@sarockdigest.com Brian Currin http://www.vagabond.za.net/contact ---------------------------- MAIN CONTRIBUTORS BC - Brian Currin SS - Stephen Segerman JS - John Samson KS - Kurt Shoemaker CL - Carina Laubscher (Katvrou) TL - Tertius Louw SN - Shiloh Noone DN - Daniel Neville ML - Moonshine Lee LR - Lindsay Ravenscroft NN - Nadia Neophytou WM - Wicked Mike DM - David Marks DS - Don Sweeto LAD - LAD MC - Michael Currin (Curmic) JFB - Johnny From Boksburg And others too numerous to mention, but gratefully acknowledged! Proofed by Ronx A SUGAR MUSIC PRODUCTION |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
webmaster: Alan Levin, maintainer: Brian Currin |
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Copyright © 1996-2003 Amuzine. All rights reserved. | |