Music News!

Hey peeps!

I am as excited as a kid in a candy store! Not only is it almost time for sun, sand and endless Long Islands, but the local music scene is alive with holiday gigs, new music videos, collabs, and so much more! Herewith some news from the Supra Familias stall.

Pic: Natasja Fourie

THIEVE: The Moerse Monday Series
Thieve is a Cape Town three-piece band who are releasing four free tracks for free download in a series called Moerse Mondays, to promote their upcoming album. Not only multi-platinum artists like Kanye get to give away their tracks... Thieve is also spreading the love for the holidays! The first track - released yesterday - is called Champion, which they performed live for the first time at The Assembly last Saturday. Download champion HERE!

Die Heuwels Fantasties: Noorderlig Music Video And Double Deluxe Edition Out Now
Die Heuwels Fantasties' new release is not only ideal listening for the long road, but is also a fusion of their pop style and visual art. The deluxe double-disc visual album includes all the songs from their debut album, Die Heuwels Fantasties, as well as a couple of new tracks. The second disc is a visual accompaniment of these songs featuring the music video of each song and includes bonus videos. Also included in this collector's album, is artwork specially designed for each of the tracks by Arno Kruger and Philip Erasmus. The first single off the album is a cover of Fokofpolisiekar's Ek Dink Aan Jou As Dit Reën. ALBUM OUT NOW!

Pic: Antonie Robertson

Jack Parow Slip It In And Sleep Tour
Jack Parow has just returned from a very successful tour to Holland, Belgium, France and Germany... and he's hitting the road again! Catch him this December at the following venues:

Dec 9   - Plett Rage, Club VIP
Dec 12 - Wavehouse, Ballito
Dec 15 - Firkin, Centurion
Dec 16 - The Barnyard Theatre, Vereeniging (with DHF)
Dec 18 - Margate Beach Front with DHF
Dec 27 - Groot Gees Fees, Stilbaai
Dec 29 - Avontoer, Mossel Bay
Dec 30 - Avontoer, Hermanus
Dec 31 - Ballito Beach Front

Parowphernalia, the clothing and apparel company creatively directed by Dominique Sarah Benton, created and branded by Jack Parow is here! To view the range and place an order, click HERE. For more info, catch them on Facebook.

Smirnoff BE THERE Presents Armin Van Buuren's A State Of Trance 500 Tour

The world's number one DJ, Armin Van Buuren, is teaming up with Smirnoff and has chosen South Africa to celebrate the launch of his A State Of Trance 500 Tour. Travelling to five continents, five cities, with five of the hottest nights on the 2011 calendar, a month long tour from 19 March to 18 April 2011 will include stops in South Africa, Europe, USA, South America and Australia.

Armin Van Buuren's A State Of Trance 500 Tour has seen enormous success in the eight years since it was launched, reaching an estimated 10-million listeners in 26 countries and over 30 radio stations, including via satellite and internet radio stations. Fans worldwide will be able to tune into this epic milestone as A State Of Trance celebrate its 500th episode.

Adrian Peterson of Smirnoff South Africa says, "It's been an incredible year for Smirnoff, and to be alongside the world's number one DJ, Armin Van Buuren, for his celebration of A State Of Trance 500 Tour, we are excited to bring yet another once-in-a-lifetime experience to South Africa. We have recently hosted the Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Project, which was a phenomenal success and once again resetting the benchmark for Smirnoff globally. South Africa can expect an outstanding performance from Armin and other world-class DJs. In addition to the music, the venue itself will be supported by a mind-blowing Smirnoff production."

Armin Van Buuren, who has been ranked as the world's number one DJ for four years running in the leading DJ Mag Top 100 poll, will be the fifth top international talent brought to South Africa by Smirnoff SA in the last year. Having recently won various awards as respectively Best Global DJ and Best Progressive House / Trance Track among others, it is evident that Armin's passion in trance music is beyond a hobby - it is essential to his way of life. "What makes trance work so well is that it doesn't stick to one style. It can incorporate electro, minimal, whatever it likes," says Armin.

It is clear that Armin Van Buuren's A State Of Trance 500 Tour is one experience not to be missed! The tour will kick off in Johannesburg on March 19, 2011. Tickets can be bought from Computicket from Monday, December 6, 2010.

For more info, log onto http://www.facebook.com/SmirnoffSA.

Van Coke Kartel - Ondier Kom!

Van Coke Kartel is launching their brand new music video of Ondier Kom! on Friday, December 10 at Tings an' Times, Hatfield, Pretoria. Wave your three tenners at the door and get ready for a beastly experience! Francois Van Coke and Jed Kossew will perform an acoustic set at 21h00, before the video will be screened at 21h30.

Ondier Kom! is the latest single from the band's critically acclaimed album Skop, Skiet & Donner, which was released earlier this year. The music video was shot in Pretoria during November, and was once again conceptualised and directed by award-winning director Louis Minnaar, who also directed the music video for Voor Ons Stof Word, the first single off Skop, Skiet & Donner.

Says bassist Wynand Myburgh: "This time Francois finds himself in a swordfight with a beast, takes a boat ride, changes into a wolf and a whole bunch of other crazy stuff..."

For a preview of the Ondier Kom! music video, click here.

Emperors Palace: The Ultimate Family Entertainment Destination This Holiday

Gauteng's family entertainment mecca, Emperors Palace, heats things up this summer with a plethora of entertainment options suitable for young and old well into the New Year.

Wondering what to do for a year-end function or how to entertain clients or family? Let the extraordinary new Cirque du Vic solve your problem. Experience a baroque wonderland filled with talented dancers, aerial strength acts and a spine-tingling contortionist while dancing to the biggest hits performed live by Dr Victor & The Rasta Rebels. This show phenomenon will be performed from Wednesdays to Sundays and tickets are R180 per person.

Join the delightfully zany characters Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz and Mayzie La Bird for a musical trip into the wonderful wacky world of Dr Seuss in Seussical Jr. The spectacular stage production features a toe-tapping, hand-clapping cornucopia of musical styles mixed with a talented and energetic cast that will keep both children and adults delighted and enthralled. The show will be performed from 10 to 24 December and tickets are R95 per person.

The legendary Johnny Clegg will be celebrating his 30th anniversary to the South African music industry with Spirit Is The Journey from 15 to 24 December. Fans will be entertained by Clegg's biggest hits, includig Scatterlings Of Africa, Cruel, Crazy Beautiful World, African Sky Blue and many more. Tickets start at R175 per person.

To celebrate the start of the New Year, the home of entertainment presents The Parlotones: Carbon Free Concert in January 2011. They will be taking over The Palace Of Dreams for an electric performance that will keep audiences on their feet all night (Jan 21 - 23, 2011). The Parlotones are known for their polished stage performances delivered against the backdrop of their deftly crafted and darkly romantic lyrics.

South African singer, songwriter and much-loved entertainer Nataniël returns to Emperors Palace with his latest stage spectacular, COMBAT, from February 17 to March 26, 2011. Nataniël's anticipated new show arrives just months after staging Cathedral. Over the past decade Nataniël has not only established himself as producer, director, designer, playwright and public speaker, but as South Africa's leading exponent of the solo stage act. An outspoken and controversial figure, Nataniël continuously crosses over from the alternative circuit to the main stage, and this new show will be another event not to be missed. For further details or to book tickets, visit http://www.emperorspalace.com/.

Tickets for all entertainment at Emperors Palace can also be booked at http://www.computicket.com/.

The Plastics' "Cave" Music Video

On Wednesday, December 8, The Plastics will launch their new music video for their single Caves, together with an acoustic set during a private function on the roof of the Grand Daddy Hotel in Cape Town.

                                                                         Pic: Kate McLuckie

Caves was the first single released from The Plastics' critically acclaimed debut album SHARK, and reached the Number 1 spot on the TUKS FM SA TOP 10. The video for Caves was directed and shot by The Morcos Brothers during October in Kenilworth, Cape Town, and with a concept inspired by flash dancers and retro rock, it will take you straight back to the 80s! About 35 people worked behind the scenes, putting together the creative and logistical infrastructure for the shoot, and in addition, 60 performers participated.

The video will be released on the internet on Thursday, December 9 and will be featured on several websites including the likes of Channel 24, Heat, FHM, MIO, The Assembly and various others. The video will also debut on MK's Kraakvars around December 15.

The Plastics will be performing on SABC 3's Expresso on December 10 during which the Caves music video will also be screened. They will also be live on 2 Oceans Vibe Radio on Monday, December 13 at 13:00, as well as Bush Radio on Wednesday, December 15 at 08:00, during which they will perform acoustic songs.

The Plastics' song Those 3 Words has recently been chosen as the song in the new Apple iPod commercial - be sure to look out for it on TV! They have also just finished writing and recording new songs for an independent film, Monkey's Wedding, which is due for release in 2011.

Just Jinjer @ Dunes, Hout Bay

Just Jinjer's annual performance at Dunes in Hout Bay is something to look forward to on the busy summer social calendar. A highlight of every year, the band is looking forward to be spending the day (December 18) with fans at the popular beachfront venue.

Just Jinjer had a busy schedule since their return from the US a year ago, performing at major festivals, popular venues nationwide and corporate shows. They will be releasing a new full-length album in April 2011.

The show starts at 17:00 and promises to rock your happy holiday spirit! Tickets are R120 and available from Dunes at (021) 790-1876.

Chromium Wins Night Drive - Wanted

2010 has been a turbulent yet highly successful year for internationally renowned metal group Chromium. After a massive UK tour and recording their highly anticipated third album (set for release in 2011), Chromium competed against nine other talented groups in the Night Drive - Wanted competition which took place in Johannesburg on December 4 for the prize of having one of their songs as the title track for the film Night Drive. The competition was intense and the judges' decision was tough, but Chromium reigned victorious in the final decision placing them once again at the forefront of the South African alternative music scene.

Not only do Chromium have their track A World Of Lies - taken from the album Confessions Of A Hero - as the title track of the film, but they will also have a music video produced for the track by The Film Factory. The band will also be kitted out in Guess clothing as well as tattoos done by Jaded Ink.

Congrats, guys!

Night Drive is South Africa's first thriller/slasher film which is set in the unforgiving South African bush, where an eclectic mix of tourists are left stranded during a night drive safari. As a series of terrifying events unfold, the tourists soon realise that wild animals are the least of their fears. Local legend has it the Hyena Man - a ruthless criminal mastermind who once traded in animal parts - heads a well-armed, well-trained group of poachers who are on the hunt for human body parts. Night Drive is set for release on February 18, 2011.

The One & Only Summer Concert 2010

Soul Divas

The End Is Nigh...

Johannesburg's Number One underground party brand, The End Is Nigh, will be ending 2010 with a bang by bringing out two of Europe's finest DJs - D.I.M and DJ FEADZ - to South Africa.

Date: 11 December 2010
Venue: The Alex
             36 Stiemens Street
             Braamfontein
Tickets: Presale R80 (available from Deer Hunter, Greenside - 082 496 9253, and Mooks, Rosebank -              011 447-8050)
               Door: R100 before 11pm, R120 after

Berlin resident Andreas Meid, known to the dance world as D.I.M., is an acclaimed producer and remix DJ. Having remixed The Presets, Chromeo, Fisherspooner, Midnight Juggernauts, Teenage Bad Girl and The Faint, D.I.M. is one of the most in-demand artists on the planet. His most successful song to date however, was the relentless Is You on Boys Noize Records - which remains a club favourite for techno and electro heads alike.

French born Dimitris Evagelopoulos, known as DJ FEADZ, took the Paris underground scene by storm in the mid 90s. He met fellow music producer Mr. Oizo in 1999 and they began production on his album Analog Worms Attack, which became extremely successful. Combining the genres of hip hop, electronic, techno and French house, he has worked with some of the world's best such as Uffie and Mr. Oizo, Justice, Krazy Baldhead and Spank Rock to mention but a few.

Visit www.olmecadimension.co.za for more info.

Chromium & Aerial 7 Join Forces

Internationally renowned hard rock / metal group Chromium have joined Aerial 7 South Africa's stable of endorsed artists.

Aerial 7 was founded on the idea that great sound can be combined with eye-catching design. The Aerial 7 range of headphones is influenced by a devotion to art, street-wear, action sports and the underground music scene.

Having toured and played in every possible corner of South Africa, Chromium embarked on a highly successful tour to the United Kingdom in 2010, taking their unique sound, image and brand abroad. This tour sparked interest from other corners of the globe which the band are now in preperations for next year. Not only do Chromium make a statement on stage, but also int he studio where the band's lead vocalist and guitarist, Jared Gunston, is in the producer's chair for the band's own work. "Not only do Aerial 7 Tanks look awesome, but they sound amazing! The mixture of clarity and bottom end is essential when recording and Aerial 7 provide the best sound to work with," says Gunston.

Off-stage, Chromium are constantly on the road using MP3 players and Skype to communicate, so Aerial 7 is the perfect travel companion to accommmodate great sound while dealing with the long road. "The Aerial 7 Bullets are the most comfortable and best-sounding in-ear headphones I have ever used! The sound is brutal and they look even more brutal," says the band's very own Justin Du Preez.

Visit Aerial 7 South Africa on Facebook.

Die Heuwels Fantasties - Noorderlig (Official Music Video)

Die Heuwels Fantasties' new music video was well worth the wait. Feast your eyes!

On Holiday With Chris Chameleon

There is no end to the prolific Chris Chameleon's busy schedule. He will barely touch ground when he returns from a month long tour in the Netherlands, before he takes off to the East Coast next week for a solo tour from 10 - 23 December. Chris is looking forward to being back on home ground and says that he cannot wait to join in the holiday spirit of the coastal towns that he will be performing in like Hermanus, Port Elizabeth and Mosselbay. Chris says: "It is winter in Europe, so the past few weeks have been very cold. I am excited to get back into the summer sun and share my music with happy holiday people."

Well known for his versatility, Chris has a few new tricks up his sleeve for the upcoming tour. He will include a Dutch and a German song that he has put to music and will also perform a new rendition of Pie Jesu. Chris will be looking at the resemblances between politics and history and how it coincides with our personal lives. The conclusion is that our country experiences the same challenges as we do in love and our personal matters. These insights are conveyed with brilliant wit by Chris and together with his music, it makes for an unforgettable experience.

Don't miss the chance to be "on holiday" with Chris Chameleon! The show promises to be fun with great music and stories that will entice your heart, soul and funny bones. View the complete gig guide here.

For fans that also enjoy Boo! live, there are shows scheduled in Hatfield, Mosselbay and Langebaan.

aKING In Studio With Third Album

aKING is currently in studio recording their third full length album with acclaimed local producer Theo Crous at Bellville Studios in Cape Town. The highly anticipated album, due for release in early 2011, is rumoured to be influenced by the pop-rock sounds of the late 70s and 80s, while new member Andrew Davenport (Thieve) is also credited with injecting a new dose of melody into the musical partnership. Said drummer Snake Venter, "The songs are quite varied - we have an upbeat pop-rock number, a heavier rock number, a ballad, an African-inspired rock track and a dark-sounding 80s track. There's a lot of variation in sound and it should be quite interesting to see which songs will make it onto the album."

The band, who has recently recorded an appearance for the M-Net Variety Show - to be broadcast in 2011 - will also be featured in two major advertising campaigns next year, one for Engen Wimpy and one for Woolworths.

During December, aKING will perform a number of gigs along the coast, as well as the Just Plain Christmas Up North - Down South Party with Die Heuwels Fantasties, Die Tuindwergies and Frankie Fire at Menlyn Shopping Centre in Pretoria on December 10. Said bassist Hennie Van Halen, "We'll be playing a few shows up the East Coast and further North in Joburg just before Christmas. Our East coast fans can expect a repeat of the nightclub Van tour we undertook a few months ago. There's also a show in Swakopmund, Namibia in the pipeline close to New Year's Eve, but peeps who are spending New Year's Eve in Cape Town can expect a show at the Waterfront. Our set will definitely incorporate a couple of new songs and the addition of a keyboard on stage."

For more info and gigging details, visit their Facebook page.

Boys Will Always Be Boys... Or Will They?

No. They grow up, achieve worldly wisdom and finally realise what life is about. What do you get when you combine a "boy band" with the following: pop and rock infusions, a hint of modern country, 3 voices, 3 instruments, 3 manly men and their own songs? A "boy band" with a twist? Wrong!

ADAM is a band where masculinity plays first fiddle. The three members are all entertainers in their own right: guitarist/singer/songwriter Hugo Ludik, Binnelanders Sub Judice actor Reynardt Hugo and Marno Van Der Merwe, who is currently starring in Robinson Crusoe And The Caribbean Pirates.

ADAM's Kleurvol was written by Hugo, Willie Van Der Merwe (these two also wrote Kurt Darren's hit Papsopwinterwaternat) and Johan Strydom. It speaks to the heart and is about that special someone... "Jy is die kleur in my blou Maandag" sums it up perfectly. The music video was shot by Pierre Smith who has worked with Kurt Darren, Nicholis Louw and Heinz Winckler. Check it out here!

Visit their Facebook page for more info and gigging details.

Happy Monday!

Hey peeps!

I hope you all had a rocking weekend!

I was driving back to Jozi this morning with a heavy heart. I had a relaxing weekend in the Free State, spending time with my family and friends. I wasn't exactly in the mood for deadlines, traffic and end-of-year chaos, but as I drove past the city I remembered what a beautiful place it actually is and how much I love being a part of it.

So, I'm happy to say that I've changed my mind about being back in the concrete jungle. Besides, it's time I treat my BlackBerry to a night out on the town...wink, wink! Oh, and I've got some exciting things lined up for MusicnStuff... Watch this space!

Peace!

Competitions & Stuff

Hey all!

Yeah, I know - it's been a while! But I'm sure everyone is feeling year-end pressure and counting the sleeps to the holidays... I sure am!

Here's something to look forward to: if you buy your Up The Creek tickets before January 1, 2011, you will automatically - without any effort from your side - be entered into a lucky draw. The only effort from the winner will be dragging his/her bags into their bungalow, and spending the (FREE!) R1 000 on top. Yup, this grand weekend prize includes:

* 2 tickets for Up The Creek Fest from 4 - 6 Feb 2011
* A bungalow for the weekend
* R1 000 spending money
* The refund of your original ticket purchase

The winner will be announced on January 10, 2011, so go to www.ticketbreak.co.za and buy your tickets now!

But wait, there's more!

You can also SMS and win tickets! Simply SMS the word 'CREEK' to 39716 to stand a chance to win tickets to Up The Creek 2011. SMSes cost R1.50 and free SMSes do not apply.

Pimp Your Lilo!

In the grand one-year-old tradition of 2010, the ANYTHING THAT FLOATS competition is making its return next year! If it floats it counts, but if it floats AND looks pretty - or floats very fast - it counts even more. The captain of the fastest vessel wins two tickets to Up The Creek 2012, as does the captain of the best looking contraption. Granted, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but in true Up The Creek style we're not talking merely a splash of paint and a pink balloon here...

The line-up for Up The Creek 2011 includes Boo!, aKING, Jack Parow, Flash Republic, Karen Zoid, Elvis Blue, Taxi Violence and MANY MORE!

Keep an eye on www.upthecreek.co.za for regular updates and more competitions.

Artist Q&A: Anton van Wyk

Greetings, earthlings!

Happy Thursday! The weekend is almost here and I hope all of you have rocking plans!

I had a quick chat with Anton Van Wyk, Van Diens Af's guitarist, to find out a bit more about how they got into the industry and what it's like to be in a band!

Where and how did Van Diens Af start?
William (Jonker, lead singer) and I have been friends for 20 years now and we've been making music together since we were 13-years-old - always dreaming of having a rock band. Living in Secunda means limited opportunities regarding music. We just stuck together until we found the right musos and VDA was born.

What's the story behind your hit, Hou My Vas?
Hou My Vas is a classic love song about having the perfect girl, giving your everything to her and then she truns around and smashes your heart!

What is the most memorable gig of your career so far?
I think our hometown gigs. It's always great to get a chance to play in Secunda. We played with aKING and Fokofpolisiekar in Secunda and it was great!

What is the most trouble you've ever gotten into?
Trouble? That's something we try to avoid at all times. But I think the worst was a good old fist fight... which we won!

How would you convince people to go to your gigs?
If you are ready for some great fun and energy on stage, good tunes and in the mood for a great party, you better do not miss VDA on stage!

Art Goes Pop

Die Heuwels Fantasties' new release is not only the ideal listening experience when on the open road, but it's also a fusion of their pop style and visual art.

This deluxe edition includes all the songs from their debut album, Die Heuwels Fantasties, as well as a couple of new tracks such as Way To Go featuring Thieve, the acoustic version of Pille Vir Kersfees and a cover of Fokofpolisiekar's Ek Dink Aan Jou As Dit Reën. The second disc features the music videos of these songs as well as four bonus videos.

The album will be released in mid-November, with artwork specially designed for each of the tracks by Arno Kruger.

Free Music!

Cape Town ska outfit Captain Stu will be releasing their much anticipated EP entitled Free Music on Friday, November 5.

Produced by SAMA Award winning producer Neal Snyman (known for his work with The Parlotones, Van Coke Kartel and Freshly Ground - to name only a few), Free Music has a fun, bouncy, energetic vibe, yet underscores of a more mature sound are evident. Says Snyman, " The predictable cliché of 'They were a great bunch to work with!' always sounds trite and contrived. The one thing that made working with Captain Stu easy, was their openness to my often brutal/rude opinions and my shit comments about no f*cking djembes or didgeridoos. Either way, despite my grumpy demeanor, I enjoyed the sessions and, f*ck it, they're a great bunch of guys to work with!"

James Klopper, lead vocalist, says working with Snyman was a real inspiration. "He really made the recording process comfortable for us. He is also a perfectionist, which meant that every single take had to be to his standards. This pushed us a lot and taught us what it's like to work under pressure."

Captain Stu decided to give the EP away for free seeing as the music industry has changed drastically over the last few years from an analogue environment to a completely digital one. They feel that in the process of giving away their music for free, the EP becomes more useful as a promotional tool to sell the band's live performance to the public.

Free Music will be launched at Zula Bar in Cape Town on November 5. Doors open at 20h00 and tickets are R50 at the door.

Visit www.captainstu.co.za for more info.

Artist Q&A: Adam Boyd

Greetings, music lovers!

I apologise for being so quiet these past few weeks... Have no fear; I'm back and I've got some exciting things up my sleeve to help make the last few weeks of 2010 more bearable - like this short Q&A with Wake To Wonder's Adam Boyd!

What did you want to be when you grow up and how did you end up with Wake To Wonder?
I always knew, even from a young age, that I wanted to play music and entertain people. When I was 4-years-old I grabbed a pair of Chinese chopsticks, some ice-cream tubs, pots, pans and some bowls and started playing my heart out to the sounds of Def Leppard. I learnt 4 instruments whilst growing up; the piano, drums, guitar and harmonica. I also sang every day until I decided to start a band to take my musical passion further. After a couple of failures and some valuable experience, I joined Wake To Wonder as the lead guitarist. When Wake To Wonder's singer (Jaime) left, they struggled for months to find a replacement. After no-one was found to suit the band's image and sound, I stepped in and have been singing for the band ever since.

What are you currently working on and when can we expect to see you perform next?
We have a couple of things in the pipeline at the moment. We got sponsored a music video for our track Mr. Potato Man (Is A Ladies' Man), and will be shooting this next month. The track went down extremely well on Highveld and stayed on the Homebrew charts for over 16 weeks. It also peaked on Ryan Seacrest's show at Number 3. We are also planning to shoot another music video entitled Brace The Broken, which will be aired next year if all goes well. We are writing new material for our second album which we are extremely excited about! We are also currently preparing for our European Tour in 2011 which will include some massive festivals in countries like Holland, Germany, Latvia, Finland, and more... Our fans can see us perform at the Vereeniging Ice Rink on November 6 alongside Van Diens Af and Countdown To The Red Carpet, as well as at the Midvaal Makiti in Meyerton alongside Prime Circle and Wonderboom.

What's the hardest part of being in a band?
When you are on the road a lot as a band, you get irritated with each other and sometimes lose your way to why you play the music you love. I think staying motivated when times are tough is the hardest part. That normally falls away once you play an epic gig as that always brings everyone together as a family.

If you had to date a member of the band, who would it be and why?
That is a good one! Mmm... I think you should never mix business and pleasure! (Laughs)

If you were to send someone to prison for crimes against music, who would it be?
There are many crooks in the music industry who always try take advantage of bands and I think those people should all be paraded around the streets naked on a carnival float for everyone else's amusement. This should be followed by a swift kick to the head. I don't like to name drop but I am sure for anyone who is in the industry, all have their own people who have messed them around in the past. Where there is opportunity, there is always someone looking to exploit it negatively. That's why all the bands in SA should stick together as a family instead of working against one another. Let's be united!

Complete the following:
When I was 17, I was... a ninja!
Before I go to bed I... fight other ninjas with my awesome ninja powers (I always win!).
Life is... music, music if life. Ninjas are agile, sleek and daring - except that one from Die Antwoord; I don't think he can pull off a back flip, do a crouching tiger or do a double hi 5! One day I shall teach him the ways of Bodacious... Kapow!

Well, now you know who you can go to for ultimate ninja training!

Til next time!

Izzy
xxx

Van Diens Af Rocking The Scene

Hailing from a small, sleepy town in Mpumalanga, Van Diens Af has proved that passion alone is enough to kick ass on the Afrikaans Rock scene. Add to that committment, heaps of talent and catchy punk/rock tunes, and you have a band ready to take the local music industry by storm!

Van Diens Af has come a long way since forming in 2008. Their debut album, Dit Wat Was... has garnered them a 2010 VONK Award for Best Rock Album and Hou My Vas (Die Einde Van 'n Hartbreek), the first single off the album, has been on high rotation on MK and various radio stations across the country since its release. Having landed a record deal with The David Gresham Record Company, they've shared the stage with local music greats including Chromium, Van Coke Kartel and All Will Fall.

Van Diens Af is from left to right: William Jonker (Vocals), Anton Van Wyk (guitar & backing vocals),

Karl Dugdale (bass) and Kevin Curry (drums).

Catch Van Diens Af live at Lake Umuzi, Secunda on November 26.

Visit http://www.vandiensaf.co.za/ for more info.

Up The Creek 2011

One river, three stages, four days, loads of music and comedy and 2 000 festival-goers with a passion for some of South Africa's best music in common - get ready for Up The Creek 2011!

From 4 - 6 February 2011, the usually quiet campsite close to Swellendam will once again be transformed into a slightly surreal spot of revelry, raging rock and soulful tunes, performances from another planet and shenanigans of the type you can only pull off when you're safely tucked in next to the mighty Breederivier for four days.

Four hundred die-hard Creekers can pull in on Thursday, 3 February for a chilled-out preview gig at the bar stage. For R100 extra, you can choose the best spot for your tent and kick-start the weekend's carousing so that the place is cooking by the time the rest of your friends arrive.

The line-up for 2011 is nothing short of phenomenal and the following bands and artists have been confirmed so far: Boo!, aKING, Jack Parow, Flash Republic, Elvis Blue, Dan Patlansky, The Dirty Skirts, Captain Stu, Karen Zoid, Bed On Bricks and many more!

Ticket prices range from R150 to R590 and tickets are available at www.ticketbreak.co.za.

Visit the Facebook page for more info, or contact Ann Sowden on info@upthecreek.co.za.

Artist Of The Week: Broadway Screamer

In August 2009 brothers Greg and Chris Tinkler breathed life into a new South African rock outfit: Broadway Screamer. Chris, who had previous success with international band Sunburn, was ready to stretch his rock 'n roll wings and create a new sound closer to home. After writing all the material for the debut album, Chris (Lead vocals / Guitar) and Greg (Bass) completed the circle with fellow members Geoff Smith (Drums) and Phoenix Steel (Guitar / Backing Vocals).

Over the past 13 months the band has secured a record deal with Universal Music, been invited to play showcases in the US and has had internationally renowned producer David Kahne (who has worked with Linkin Park, Kelly Clarkson and The Strokes) remix four of the tracks off their debut album, Sweet Reverb.
"When I heard Broadway Screamer for the first time, the energy really jumped out at me, a rare experience," says Kahne. Touring guitarist for US hard rockers The Used, Greg Bester, is producing the full album.

Sweet Reverb is set for an early December release and is melodic rock at its prime. Influenced by bands such as Nickelback, Fall Out Boy and Hinder, the result is a true rock album with edge. Their catchy melodies and striking lyrics are positive and life-affirming, yet anything but frivolous. With a sound accessible enough to reach a wide audience and a huge focus on melody, Broadway Screamer definitely have all their guns fired for success.

Dave Thompson, former head of marketing SONY BMG and SA Idols judge has expressed a major love for and belief in the band. "Broadway Screamer is poised to set new standards in modern rock. Killer tunes combined with the most distinctive new voice in rock will see Broadway Screamer stomping on the old guard at the top of the charts," says Dave.

For more information, visit their MySpace page or http://www.broadwayscreamer.co.za/

And All That Jazz

The Joburg Theatre, in association with MJB Co-ordination, presents four world-class jazz musicians in the intimate Fringe Theatre.

“I have always wanted to introduce regular jazz evenings at The Fringe,” says Bernard Jay, CEO of Joburg Theatre. “But I think it’s a speciality area of our business and we needed the right partner.  A chance meeting with music promoter Mandla Baloyi late one night at the theatre’s News Café has opened this door for us at last.”

Composer, teacher and avid musician, Feya Faku, has travelled the world, collaborating and making music with some of the greatest musicians of our time in the jazz world. And now you can see him perform live on Saturday November 6th at 8pm.  He has played with greats such as Dave Young, Gustavo Begalli and Bheki Mseleki.  He has also spent much of his time recording in South Africa and abroad.

With a solid following both in South Africa and internationally, Zim Ngqawana has made quite a name for himself over the years.   Zim will be performing live at The Fringe on Saturday November 13th at 8pm. His style is hard to place into a specific genre – with a mixture of bop, funk, Indian, Western and many other types - but the quality of his music and his drive make it all the more apparent why he has 5 SAMA awards under his belt.

McCoy Mrubata is a saxophonist, a flute player, a band leader and a composer.  Growing up with great jazz musicians like the Ngozi Brothers, Blackie Tempi, Robert Sithole and many others, he quickly learnt to master his instruments and was playing in cover bands by the early 1980’s. He will be performing on Saturday November 20th at 8pm. McCoy has collaborated with a dazzling array of South African, as well as international jazz musicians, which has helped to mould him into the superbly gifted musician he is today.

Khaya Mahlangu is one of a handful of South African musicians responsible for defining a whole era in the South African Music Industry, from the 1970’s up until now. He will be performing in The Fringe on Saturday December 11th at 8pm.  Khaya has performed with many jazz greats, such as Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba and Vusi Khumalo.  He has also been guest performer on many of their recordings.

Tickets for these intimate, truly African Saturday Evenings at The Fringe are only R120 and are on sale at Computicket: visit www.computicket.com or call 083 915 8000. 

Geraamtes Van 'n Droom

‘n Plattelander trek stad toe en word vir die eerste keer met die ware realiteite van die nuwe Suid-Afrika gekonfronteer. Sommige is ontnugterend en ander maak ‘n heel nuwe liefde vir sy land en mense in hom wakker. Hy moet egter heelwat van sy kinderdrome herevalueer...

 

Geraamtes Van 'n Droom: Die Show maak op Woensdag, 27 Oktober om 20:00 sy debuut by die Centurion Teater, Pretoria. Met liedjies vanaf sy solo album, asook addisionele snitte, vra Christoff Beukes nie net vrae oor die "Nuwe Suid-Afrika" wat dikwels in almal se harte lê nie, maar ook vrae oor alledaagse lewe. Met die uitkyk "Modern Life/Love is War", neem hy ons op 'n tog deur die strate van die siel...

Kaartjies is R80 en is beskikbaar by Christoff Beukes.
Beukeschris@gmail.com
0733066405
http://www.christoffbeukes.co.za/ 

WANTED!

A South African band or artist to create the title track for Night Drive.

The Film Factory Team devised the WANTED! campaign aimed at finding a brand new original English rock track written and recorded by a local band or artist which will be featured in the film.

Susana Kennedy, Film Factory Producer, explains: "Whether bands and artists are firmly established, up-and-coming or brand new to the industry, we want everyone to compete and stand the exact same chance to win a once in a lifetime opportunity to be a part of the feature film. There is also the chance of global exposure through the international release of Night Drive."

The winner of the WANTED! competition will be selected based on the content, originality, style and sound of their original English rock track.

How To Enter:
Go to the Facebook page for the song brief, watch the Night Drive Cinema Trailer and write a killer rock track. If you have an existing unreleased track that is suitable, that can be submitted instead.
Record a demo version of the song and upload the track as well as a photograph of you or your band to the Facebook page to qualify.
Encourage your friends to vote for you by clicking "Like" on the page and leave a comment in order to secure your place at the finals of the WANTED! competition.

For more info on the WANTED! campaign, visit http://www.nightdrivemovie.com/ or contact Collett Dawson at collett.dawson@absamail.co.za.

Huissiek Gebede

Following the successful release of their highly anticipated third album Skop, Skiet & Donner, Van Coke Kartel's founding members, Wynand Myburgh and Francois Van Coke, recruited Jedd Kossew (guitar) and Jason Oosthuizen (drums) - two additions that heralded a new era for Van Coke Kartel.

The four-piece embarked on the nationwide VanFokKingTasties tour with the idea of shooting a music video along the way - the proverbial two birds with one stone - and so Huissiek Gebede (the video) was born.

Featuring guest vocals and guitar by Laudo Liebenberg, Huissiek Gebede is a music video that not only authentically illustrates the track it is set to, but also expresses the unmistakenable identity of Van Coke Kartel as a live act.

Check out the video here!

Is It Raining In Heaven?

For what is probably the first time in my life, I'm at a loss for words. I've been listening to Queen's No-One But You over and over: "One by one / Only the good die young / They're only flying too close to the sun."

Yesterday was one of the worst days of my life as I got the news of Rowan's tragic death. Not only was he loved by everyone whose lives he had touched, but he was a passionate, positive human being who put his heart and soul into everything he did - 110%.

Where do I begin to describe something that has boomed from the word go into a friendship that has enriched my life in more ways than one?

Rowan, I don't know what to say. You were taken away to soon. I still can't believe it. Our daily chats on Facebook, your phone calls and emails always made me smile - even when you were feeling down, you always knew what to say to make me feel better. In your eyes, no person was less important than the other.

I regret not spending more time with you. I find comfort in the thought that you are now making music in a better place.

Until we meet again,

RIP my friend.

Izzy
xxx

PS: I will never forget you!

My heart goes out to Rowan's mother, Nancy, and the rest of his family and friends - you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Party Time!

Hey peeps!

Happy Monday!

After having one of the most draining weeks ever last week, I'm ready to rock again! Take a look at this week's gig guide and get your bum off that couch - nothing like sharing some good music with good friends!

Navi Redd
When: Monday, October 4
Where: Barnyard Broadacres, Johannesburg
Tickets: Available at (011) 467-6983

                                                                        Heroes Wear Red

Heroes Wear Red, Prelude To June, Deity's Muse, Sub Rosa, Newton's 3rd and Outside The New
When: Wednesday, October 6
Where: Tanz Café, Fourways
Tickets: R50 at the door

New Holland
When: Thursday, October 7
Where: Bohemia, Stellenbosch
Tickets: Free

The Cavalier and Red Letter Sunday
When: Friday, October 8
Where: The Black Dahlia, Boksburg
Tickets: R30 at the door

Beeskraal
When: Saturday, October 9
Where: Boskombuis, Pretoria
Tickets: Available at 082 837 4155

Rocking The Gardens - Not To Be Missed!
When: Sunday, October 10
Where: Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
Tickets: R280 from (021) 481-1832
Line-up: Includes Farryl Purkiss, Springbok Nude Girls and Flash Republic

See you there!

Izzy
xxx

Time To Push The Awesome Button

Sergeant Fu burst onto the local music scene during the Soccer World Cup with their catchy tune Vuvuzela. Immediately they captured local and international attention with their eclectic style, zany sense of humour and fun demeanor.

Now Matthew Marinus and Ryno Zeelie offer their eagerly awaited debut album, Push The Awesome Button, aiming to bring light and happiness to our everyday, routine-filled lives and win over the hearts of all who listen to it.

Push The Awesome Button is predominantly driven with power-pop beats, yet it cleverly introduces and incorporates the free-spirited, playful personality with unique samples and sounds. The individuality of the album shines through in Sergeant Fu's ability to blend honest humour with sincere emotions. Through the intricate use of playful lyrical constructions, the songs grab you by surprise with their simplicity, relevance and sing-along ability.

"Ryno and I went on a quest to create a new genre of music called 'Feel-Good' and we feel that the vibe of the combined tunes on Push The Awesome Button will make people shake their ass, laugh, smile and giggle from beginning to end. That, in a nutshell, is what our debut album is all about. Enjoy!" says Matt.

Push The Awesome Button will be launched on October 20 at Tanz Cafe, Fourways, and the event is open to the public. Doors open at 19h00 with the opening act (Josie) performing at 20h15 and Sergeant Fu taking to the stage at 21h00. Tickets are R50 and can be booked at (011) 658-0277.

Check out the Vuvuzela video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMFu-QzGV5U and for more info visit http://www.sergeantfu.com/.

Push The Awesome Button... go on... we know you want to!

Izzy
xxx