SAARKIE Album Review

Hey peeps!

I was really excited to pop Saarkie's second album, Identiteit into the CD player when I got it last week. And South Africa's only all-girl rock band didn't disappoint. Here's what I thought of it:

My Hart, the opening track of Identiteit sets the benchmark for the rest of the album with an energetic feel and complies perfectly with the album's underlying theme of identity. Oorlog In My Hart, the first single off the album isn't necessarily the best choice for a taste of what's to come when promoting an upcoming album (I would've gone with the super cool Lucky Strike - just my humble opinion!). That said, highlights on the album include the African-infused Masibambaneni, Devil In Disguise and the soulful Nader Aan My - written specially for the girls by and performed with Afrikaans rocker Jan Blohm.

English fans won't necessarily understand what messages the girls who rock in style are trying to get through with their lyrics, but that's not a good enough excuse not to buy the album and rock your socks off! These chicks know which buttons to push when it comes to psyching you up for a night on the town - complete with stilettos and blood red lips!

Rating: 7/10

Taxi Violence Is Back!

Things are heating up in Taxi Violence quarters as the band takes to the road in April and prepare to set some stages alight as only they can:

7 April: Pablo's, Potchefstroom with Voodoo Child, R20 entrance

8 April: Tings & Times, Pretoria with Isochronous, R40 entrance

9 April: Woods and Town Hall, Johannesburg with Desmond & The Tutu's, R50 before 10pm, R70 thereafter

22 April: Rock The River, Cape Town

May will see the release of Taxi Violence's first unplugged album, or at least, the closest thing to unplugged as Taxi will ever get. All the tracks on the album are reworked versions of songs from Untie Yourself and The Turn, except for three new tracks. The tracks were re-arranged and stripped-down to fit into a more acoustic, unplugged format. This album will be perfect fireplace and red wine music to heat up the winter. As the guys put it, light the old fire, pour her a glass of red wine and play Taxi Violence's Long Way From Home. If you don't score with those 3 ingredients, you won't ever.

The debut single and music video will be for Heads Or Tails and will be released early in April. The music video was produced and directed by Ryan Kruger, who also produced The Turn. It is a story of a recurring day in a guy's life. He experiences a repeating day and starts learning what will happen next and then starts taking advantage of it.

The Taxi Violence low-down on the album:

Devil 'n Pistol We wanted to capture the feel that we got in that video on vinyl. That raw-dodgy-hotel-bar feel, where random musicians pull together and play some songs. This version is arranged in that way, giving it a more organic sound.

Venus Fly Trap This one is so completely different from the original, it's not even in the same key. This is a song with huge drums, slide guitar and a wicked harmonica played by Lonesome Dave Ferguson. It just keeps rolling on, this one.

It Must Be (working title) One of the new tracks. It was especially written for our acoustic set. Your typical blues song with a Taxi twist. Originally, it was about an unsuccessful gambling binge in Vegas, but George has written new and more thought provoking lyrics for it.

Waking Up An oldie that we've stripped down to the bare minimum. Only voices, guitar and a cello. That's it.

Heads Or Tails This will most probably be the first single from the album. Its hard to compare this version with the original; it's got a different melody, different guitar parts, different beat - only the lyrics are the same. So its 75% modern, 25% vintage.

Between The Heavens And The Deep Blue Sea (working title) A brand new one written by Jason Ling. He actually plays acoustic guitars on this track. It's also quite a strong single with a cool Robert Plant vibe to it.

Long Way From Home Another brand new one and pinned as the second single. This will probably also be the title track to the album, as we've planned our entire marketing campaign around the main character in the music video. Be on the lookout for Mr Furry Head.

Untie Yourself Completely stripped down to voices, piano and a cello. This song will only be recognisable by the lyrics. A beautiful vocal-driven piece of music. Ling practiced his piano pieces for about two weeks in the studio. We started calling him The Chinese Tchaikovsky. The running joke is that it's George's ode to Angels by Robbie Williams.

The Turn This song was actually turned acoustic by accident ...the pun is intended. We just messed around and it started to take shape into quite a Western movie soundtrack piece. The end is epic.

Unholy Another much-loved oldie that showcases the class of Lonesome Dave Ferguson. This track has a cool country flavour.

No More No Less One of the more difficult ones to record. We had an idea of what we wanted it to sound like, but no idea how we were going to do it. I think it took the longest to finish. Rusti, our producer, helped me add some awesome percussive elements reminiscent to a small orchestra.

Keep your eyes peeled, friends!

Izzy
xxx

Van Diens Af On Tour

Hey friends!

Happy Tequila Tuesday (why has no-one declared it an official holiday yet?)!

I had a quick chat with Afrikaans rockersVan Diens Af - who are currently on tour - this morning and it seems they're having an absolute blast. They were en route to Grahamstown at the time, after kicking off their tour in Bloem on Friday and playing in Aliwal on Saturday.

"We're very excited about our two shows at the KKNK," says guitarist Anton Van Wyk. "That's actually what the tour is about and so far, it's been befok."

Herewith the rest of the tour dates. Be sure to catch Van Diens Af at one of their gigs - you won't regret it! (Also keep an eye out for their new music video, Klaar Met Jou, which will be released soon.)

March 29: Grahamstown - Union
March 30: Port Elizabeth - Pool City
March 31: Stellenbosch - MFM Acoustic Session
April 1: Stellenbosch - Klein Libertas Teater
April 2: East London - Raggies
April 3: Oudtshoorn - Lemon & Lime
April 4: Oudtshoorn - Lemon & Lime
April 6: Oudtshoorn KKNK - MK Stage (Line-up includes Ashtray Electric, New Holland and Zebra & Giraffe)
April 7: Oudtshoorn KKNK - MK Stage (Line-up includes Dans Dans Lisa, Van Coke Kartel, Die Heuwels Fantasties and Jack Parow)

Izzy
xxx

Chameleon To Release New Ingrid Jonker Album

Chris Chameleon set Ingrid Jonker's poems to music for the first time in the critically acclaimed album Ek Herhaal Jou in 2005. This album was one of the most popular and widely discussed albums ever issued in Afrikaans. Fans, media and literary circles were abuzz and praised Chris for making Jonker's work accessible to a new and broader audience.

Chameleon strives to release at leats one new album annually, and at the beginning of 2011 it was time to compose new songs. He began working on writing his own words but found that Jonker's poems were still, after all these years, pulling at his heartstrings: "I composed and recorded Ek Herhaal Jou in a whirlwind of a month. Some tracks did not feature on the album due to time constraints in the studio. My love for this particular Afrikaans cultural treasure has never seized. Jonker's work inspires me in my music as well as my life in general. The compositions kept coming through the years. Every time I open her poem collections, new ideas materialize. In albums such as Volkleur DVD and Klassieke Chameleon, one can hear some of Ingrid Jonker's poems that did not make it onto Ek Herhaal Jou."

Chris realised that the only way in which he was going to find some artistic rest for his soul was to listen and respond. The compositions flowed with ease. The new album, As Jy Weer Skryf was recorded in March with the help of producer Theo Crous at Belville Studios. Ek Herhaal Jou is a very simplistic album. As Jy Weer Skryf has a much fuller sound and offers a diverse range of moods. Rock, reggae and a children's lullaby adds to the variety on the album.

As Jy Weer Skryf contains 15 tracks and will be released by Rhythm Records in May 2011.

Mango Groove Releases First Ever Live DVD

Finally it's here!

Mango Groove and EMI South Africa are proud to announce the release of the first ever Mango Groove live concert DVD, titled Mango Groove Live In Concert.

All the classics are there, from the early hits such as Special Star, Dance Some More, Hometalk, Moments Away and Another Country, right through to all the favourites from Mango Grooves latest album Bang The Drum, including This Is Not A Party, Hey! and Pretty.

In addition to all the familiar songs, the show is a spectacular visual feast, featuring some stunning production values and loads of extra surprises.

In the words of Mango Groove's iconic lead singer Claire Johnston: "It's difficult to believe that, after all these years, this is our first ever commercially available live concert DVD. We've shot a number of full-length TV specials through the years, including the Sun City Superbowl and Standard Bank arena shows, but these were never available in stores. This is something we have worked incredibly hard at and we are really excited with the result."

The show was shot at the end of 2010 as a full-blown 10 camera HD shoot in front of thousands of fans at the Big Top Arena in Carnival City. Says Mango Groove's founder member and producer John Leyden: "The venue was absolutely perfect: big enough to capture the crowd energy of the show, but just right too, to capture the intimacy of the Mango ballads."

"If you really want to make sense of the phenomenon that is Mango Groove, you have to see them live. All the group's familiar songs aside, the band really cut its teeth as a live act and there is an energy in their live performance there that we really believe we have captured perfectly," says DVD director Michael Scheider.

A great additional feature of the show was the band reuniting with iconic SA choreographer Wendy Ramokgadi. Wendy was a key part of the band's videos and live shows through the years. Wendy is also known for being the originator of the globally popular World Cup Diski Dance. Says Clair: "It was great to be back on stage again with Wendy and 'The Mangonettes'. We have been really chuffed through the years that so many of the Mango songs such as Special Star, Hometalk and Nice To See You have become such a part of contemporary SA dance culture. Getting back together with Wendy for the show made perfect sense."

John Leyden concludes: "The whole show is as much about celebrating our past as it is about looking forward. Mango Groove has always been first and foremost a live act, and capturing that energy and joy in the truest possible way is what the DVD is all about. We are thrilled with the result."

The Mango Groove Live In Concert DVD will be released to stores nationwide on Monday, April 4 and take it from someone who was there during the DVD recording: you don't want to miss this one!

Izzy
xxx

A Glittering Evening Of Favourites Not To Be Missed

From the creative director that brought us The Twelve Tenors comes another exclusive for the Joburg Theatre: The Sopranos - Live In Concert - a sensational show of superb songs and immensely talented ladies, displaying a brilliant blend of musical styles.

Direct from the European leg of their 2011 World Tour and for the first time in South Africa, the eight stunning sopranos enthrall the audience with timeless classics from the world of opera to Broadway and popular classics to contemporary rock, paying homage to the greatest divas the world has ever seen.

Audiences will be treated to some of the best-loved and instantly recognisable music of all time performed in The Sopranos' own inimitable and evocative style: from hushed, intimate tones to full-throttle rock, the spine-tingling vocals unify with breathtaking harmonies, paying homage to some of the best-loved Divas including Shirley Bassey, Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion and Judy Garland.

Their emotion, humour and charisma will dazzle audiences as they sing timeless classics in high opera interwoven with pop and rock.

A must for all ages, The Sopranos will perform their renditions of hits ranging from The Marriage Of Figaro to Rogers & Hammerstein's Gonna Wash That Man; from Puccini's Nessun Dorma to James Bond's Goldfinger; Barbara Streisand's Evergreen to Simon & Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water, Bizet's Carmen to Andrew Lloyd Webber's With One Look and all other genres in between.

Barry Potts, Creative Director of The Sopranos, is no stranger to South Africa, having performed here on a number of previous occasions and was eager to return to the country - particularly now as producer. Says Barry; "At last I have an opportunity to return to the country which launched my career in show business. I was so privileged to conduct the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra and the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra in Rock Legends, then supervised the launch of the Rat Pack and starred as one of Ireland's 3 tenors in Spirit Of The Dance at the (then) Johannesburg Civic Theatre. I am so excited to be producing my international hit show The Sopranos among old friends at the Joburg Theatre and give audiences the opportunity to enjoy one of the best nights out this year."

The full symphony sound accompanying the sopranos was created by New Zealand's Wellington Sinfonia and the show features a seven-piece on-stage band starring the sassy all-girl string quartet, The Glamrocks.

Adding some local flavour to The Glamrocks is the incredibly talented and internationally celebrated violinist from Cape Town, Danielle Asherson.

Performances of The Sopranos - Live In Concert begin in The Mandela at Joburg Theatre on April 19 and the limited season must close on May 1, making this the ideal show to see over the Easter and public holiday period.

Enjoy a taste of what to expect from The Sopranos - Live In Concert by clicking HERE. Tickets are R181 - R263 and are on sale now exclusively at www.joburgtheatre.com.

The Sopranos are Roimata Templeton (choreographer and resident director), Rhianydd Beaumont, Helen Power, Lisa Bridge, Elizabeth Atkinson, Katie Murray, Rebecca Moore and Kathryn Pemberton.

Drugs Worth Spending Money On

Don't go running to Narcotics Anonymous now - I'm talking about the Designer Drugs gig happening in Jozi and Cape Town on April 1 & 2... Check it out:

Discotheque, Cape Town's premier electronic music night - the brand that brought you Steve Aoki, The Bloody Beetroots, Le Castle Vania and many others - is proud to present Designer Drugs' Michael Vincent Patrick for a 2 legged South African stop-over as part of the global Hardcore / Softcore album release tour.

Michael will perform in Cape Town at The Assembly on Friday, April 1 and in Jozi at Town Hall on Saturday, April 2.

Ask the DJ/production duo Designer Drugs how many air miles they've logged over the past year and the answer requires more than a bit of calculating. "Over 300,000," says Michael Vincent Patrick, referencing numerous spots around the world where the group has performed. "I have a really nice apartment in New York City, but I've only been there three days this month."

It's a testament both to the duo's popularity and work ethic that that number may become the annual norm. After nearly 50 remixes for everyone from Mariah Carey to Annie to Thieves Like Us, the diverse electronic group - comprised of Patrick and Theodore Paul Nelson - is fresh off the release of their debut album Hardcore / Softcore on Ultra Records just a few weeks ago in March 2011.

Hardcore conjures up a darker, edgier vibe - think the throbbing, industrial-heavy opening club scene in The Doom Generation - yet still retains a melodic centre on many of the tracks. "I think we're making music for the apocalypse," says Michael, only half-joking. "The state of society is at a place where people just don't give a fuck and that's what inspires our music."

Spend a few minutes at one of Designer Drugs' live shows and you'll see Michael, spurred on by the intense energy of their music, transform into a different beast. "It gets pretty wild," admits Michael. "Even though we're mellow, there's lots of stage diving and almost slam dancing. It's next level dance club shit that almost morphs into that 90s hardcore/punk vibe."

Don't be a nerd - get your tickets HERE or visit http://www.designer-drugs.net/ for more info.

African Adventure

Paisley Productions, in association with South African National Parks, is proud to present the fresh, inspirational and humorous family musical African Adventure at The Fringe at Joburg Theatre from April 14 for a limited season until May 5, 2011.

This exciting, ground breaking stage production incorporates fresh young talent, puppets inspired by the smash hit international musical Avenue Q and a Nickelodeon-inspired stage design.

The show is set in the African bushveld where the wildlife faces the ever present threat of poaching. Join Lynette the posh Giraffe, Malcolm the funky Monkey and Olivia the Ostrich-diva as they face the terrifying quest to help their Rhino friends Ricky and Rachael.

Tracy Christelis, an upcoming writer with a fresh approach to family theatre, has captured the heart of our African culture in this new and original script. Jesse Christelis and Zak Hendrikz have teamed up to direct this new proudly South African musical and with their out-of-the-box approach to theatre are certain to deliver an enchanting African theatre experience. Add to that the inspirational music of Lonehill Estate's bassist Mark Van Den Berg and you have a show that beats and pulses with a vibrant African rhythm, incorporating all music genres from ragtime to world music along the way.

African Adventure will be showcasing some of the country's most talented up and coming performers from Tshwane University of Technology who are destined to be SA's theatre stars of the future. Based on the musical Avenue Q, the cast of 7 human and 9 puppet characters will interact as though human. The puppets are animated and voiced by the actor who will be present and unconcealed onstage at all times. The aim is for both the audience and puppeteer to focus on the character being portrayed.

African Adventure Family Musical will whisk you and your family away on the adventure of a lifetime. There is no better way to entertain the family this Easter Holiday - head down to the Joburg Theatre and let adventure grab you by the tail.

10% of ticket sales go to South African National Parks' Counter Rhino Poaching and Public Education Divisions.

Tickets are R95, and are on sale exclusively by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com and purchasing your print-at-home ticket on the Internet, or by calling Joburg theatre’s new direct ticketing line on 0861 670 670.

Sins & Siren Songs

On Friday, March 18 Mr. Cat & The Jackal will launch their long-awaited second album, Sins & Siren Songs at the Free World Design Centre in Cape Town.

"Sins & Siren Songs have successfully stayed afloat with all the animals on board! The incessant rain keeps us all awake and nervous, not even mentioning the occasional carnivore-yawn - luckily we have several tricks up our sleeves to keep them entertained. Through recapitulation we now all carry our rapiers with us and a healthy dose of humour, for in case that damn bird doesn't come back. All in all - and with the public drowning all around us - the Mr Cat & The Jackal ship had an auspicious launch. Much appreciation to all those involved!"

Sins & Siren Songs contains a total of 16 songs, took 13 months to complete and was recorded at the Fresh Meat Studio - produced by Mr Cat & The Jackal and Abri Du Plessis and mixed and mastered by Darryl Torr.

"The second offering from the quixotic Mr Cat & The Jackal came from many lessons from their frequently bruised and bumped head. Mountainous amounts of minuscule victories have mixed with stringent writing and multifarious inspirations to finally accumulate in their latest album - Sins & Siren Songs. Lady luck was carrying us through the quicksand - so we [probably rightfully] assume" - Mr Cat & The Jackal

The first single off the album, The Devil Always Wants To Dance has been released to radio stations nationwide for playlisting. The music video for the single - directed by Thomas Fereira from 187 - has also been released and will be available on the Internet in the near future.

For more info, visit Mr Cat & The Jackal's website, like them on Facebook and download The Devil Always Wants To Dance HERE for free!

RAKA Festival

The RAKA Unplugged festival is taking place from March 31 to April 3 at the Kam'Bati River Resort which is situated about 200 km from Cape Town.

RAKA is the most chilled festival in South Africa and if you're in the mood for a weekend of lazy tunes in your ears while checking out the wine stalls or having some potjiekos, then this one is for you!

Tickets are available at Computicket at R250, or for R300 at the door. If you only want to attend the festival on Sunday, April 3 a ticket will cost you R100.

Visit www.kambati.co.za to book your spot for the weekend, or visit www.dpk.co.za for more info.

LINE-UP

Thursday, March 31
15:00     Doors open
19:00     Open stage
22:00     Jo Martin

Friday, April 1
15:00 - 18:00     Open Stage
Margarat's Daughter
Youth
Louwtjie Rothman
Ramblin' Bones
Dane Taylor
3rd World Spectator
Jo Martin
Drum Circle

3rd World Spectator

Saturday, April 2
Foto Na Dans
No One's Arc
Klopjag
Pretty Blue Guns
Gary Thomas
Johannine
Voortvlugtend
Jason Tamba (Congo)
Manouche
Gerdus Oosthuizen
Willim Welsyn
Hugo Brand
Simon Swerwer
Aanklank
Shotgun Tori




Foto Na Dans


Sunday, April 3
Ballistic Blues
Basson Laubscher
Dane Taylor
Albert Frost

Message From Jack Parow

Hallo al my liewe maatjies!
Ek gooi die 19de Maart 'n gevaarlike jol by The Assembly (Cape Town). Lekke tye, lekke doppe, my gevaarlike chommies Bittereinder, Sedge Warbler en Blush And Bass, die launch van my next level sexy nuwe video, Byellville en 'n paar ander kief surprises! So kom kyk uit en raak gesuip... IS JA!
Jack Parow

Loosely translated, Jack Parow is saying:

Hello all my dear friends!
On  March 19 I am throwing a dangerous jol at The Assembly. Good times, good drinks, my dangerous chommies Bittereinder, Sedge Warbler and Blush And Bass, the launch of my next level sexy new video, Byellville and a few other kief surprises! So come check it out and get drunk... IS YES!

Parowphernalia, Jack Parow's own clothing label, will be available at the launch - check hoe sexy!

The guys from The Post Office have created another amazinf video for Parow. The director, Duvan Durand was also responsible for the videos Cooler As Ekke and Dans Dans Dans. Cooler As Ekke was so... uhm... cool! it was on rotation on MTV Europe last year!

Says Duvan Durand: "Parow is just an awesome character, whether you put him on a beach chair next to the swimming pool or on the back of a horse - it's always kief!"

The video for Byellville tells a zero-to-hero story. Viewers will ba amazed by all the details and will be in for a surprise or two. So keep 'em peeled!

Thank You, RAMfest!

Happy Monday... or not. I woke up with a cold this morning and the lovely rainy weather outside didn't exactly make getting up for work any easier... But how did I catch a cold? So worth it!

I woke up on Saturday feeling like a 5-year-old on Christmas morning. After a lot of running around looking for my sunglasses and applying a second layer of sunblock (occasionally squeaking like a lovestruck teenager), we jumped into the car and set off for RAMfest. If you've never been, let me explain one thing: you are guaranteed to lose, break or gain something when attending this music festival.

I lost my voice, I nearly broke a finger trying to flush the Port-A-Potty in the dark and I left Riversands Farm with a cold and a renewed respect for our local artists - and Die Antwoord's Enter The Ninja stuck in my head.

Zebra & Giraffe

We arrived just in time to catch the awesomeness that is Desmond & The Tutus and rock along to Knave's powerful tunes. Isochronous impressed with their progressive synth-rock and after singing along to some Zebra & Giraffe we were off to the dance stage to yell in each other's ears how "friggin' cool" Bittereinder is!




Bittereinder

 I've been a fan ever since I got my hands on their album last year and this was the first time I saw them perform live - definitely worth having a Red Bull spilled all over your feet by the eedjit next to you. There was just one thing I'd say was uncalled for: while singing Tale Of Three Cities they just stopped when Jack Parow's part came up. Okay, he wasn't there, but still - at least finish the song!

Van Coke Kartel

Before Van Coke Kartel were set to rock the farm, it was time for yet another Red Bull & Vodka (yes, I considered hunting the guy down who was responsible for spilling the previous one and make him pay for it, but he was probably passed out next to the nearest tree by then) and a Spur burger (thanks so much, Spur! You guys ensured that I didn't catch the tummy bug they were selling as an extra topping on the pizzas) to get some energy for what was sure to be a mind-blowing performance. Yeah, not so much. I was a tad bit disappointed by Van Coke Kartel's performance, yet I can't say why that is...

I enjoyed Alkaline Trio and Funeral For A Friend very much - even though I seemed to be the only one in our yard (read: two blankets that were moved according to the shade) who thought they were cool. There were a lot of "they sound like Blink, I'm not in high school anymore" and "the lead singer doesn't even know when to swear"'s going around, but the fact that i didn't want to grate my ears off was a good sign to me.

Now, I'm also not a teenager anymore (how did they get in, by the way?) and at around 10 pm I had an argument with a friend about my weakness. See, when I want to sleep, I should've been in bed already - to avoid things becoming messy when having sharp objects within an arm's reach. Luckily, no sharp objects were allowed on the premises and I was allowed a ten minute power nap in our yard, surrounded by Red Bull glasses and grass EVERYWHERE - including in my mouth and ears.

Die Antwoord's killing performance was definitely the highlight of my day. From the moment they were announced by John Vlismas to the opening sounds of Enter The Ninja, I had goosebumps! I was amazed at how the crowd was hanging onto every word they sang and followed their every move with eager eyes and bobbing heads.

Unfortunately we had to leave halfway into their set to avoid a traffic jam at midnight on a farm in Johannesburg (it's possible, believe me!), but I got to see Die Antwoord so I was a happy camper as we headed home.

Congratulations to Hilltop Live and everyone involved for yet another successful RAM in Joburg. I'm very pleased at how things worked out at the new venue. It was well organised and we never waited long to get a drink, something to eat or have a turn at the Port-A-Potties (unlike last year at Emmarentia where I aged a year waiting in the line to get a drink).

Just an example of what not to wear: (seriously!)

I can't wait for next year's RAM!

Rock on!
Izzy
xxx

The RAM Is Finally Here!

Hey party people!

You have no idea how excited I am about tomorrow's RAMfest! Like a kid in a candy store! I don't think I'd be able to sleep tonight!

Anyhoo, rumour has it Cape Town RAMfest was a killer! Unfortunately, I haven't heard anything from the Durbanites yet, so if you were there and you lived to tell the story, drop a comment - I'd love to hear your story! In the meantime, check out Chopper Charlie's account of Cape Town RAMfest HERE.

Approximately 8 000 Capetonians attended RAMfest V over the past weekend. Rock and metal mayhem was the order of the weekend at Nekkies in Worcester (jealous that they got a whole weekend...). The kick-off to the three national RAMfest was a huge success. The production standard was astounding and the performing bands gave it their all to make this weekend one to remember. Get ready Jozi, the RAM has landed!

Funeral For A Friend, Cape Town RAMfest 2011. Pic: Thomas Ferreira

"The experience was overwhelming and to be greeted with such passion and heavy metal enthusiasm was awesome. So excited to see what Durban and Joburg have to offer and expecting bigger and better things! Cape Town has set some high standards." - Matt Davies, lead singer Funeral For A Friend

"From the moment we stepped off the plane in Cape Town, we've been looked after magnificently well by the RAMfest crew. We've also been very impressed with the quality of the South African musicians and bands, and have enjoyed discovering new bands on our trip." - Ryan Richards, drummer Funeral For A Friend.

"So far, so incredible! First show exceeded our expectations, the people are beautiful, and the sharks are beautiful and South Africa is beautiful. Can't wait for the next show." - Dan Andriano, Alkaline Trio

The international acts couldn't stop talking about what a jol they at Cape Town, so I think it's only fair we show them how we do it in Jozi (no offense, CT - loves you!)...

Here's the line-up for tomorrow's show at Riversands Farm, Johannesburg (gates open at 10:00):

Main Stage
11:00     Blk Jks
12:00     Desmond & The Tutu's
13:00     Knave
14:00     Isochronous
15:00     Pestroy
16:00     Zebra & Giraffe
17:00     Not My Dog
18:00     Van Coke Kartel
19:15     Alkaline Trio
20:45     Funeral For A Friend
22:15     Die Antwoord

Dance Stage
13:00     Pity The Fool
14:00     Shadowclub
15:00     DYOF
16:00     Bittereinder
17:00     CutKeyLow
17:45     Ambush
19:00     Ph Fat
20:00     Benson
21:00     Deeziak
22:00     RudeOne
23:00     Tasha Baxter

So, here we go! Get your boots on, it's going to be pretty rad!

Izzy
xxx

SAARKIE Release Their Second Album

Saturday, 12 March sees SAARKIE, South Africa's only all-girl, Afrikaans rock band release their second album entitled Identiteit. The album is produced by Sean Manley and Zanda Traut and was recorded at Manley Studios in Pretoria where some of SA's most renowned artists have recorded before.

"It was a privilege for Manley Studios to record SAARKIE's new album, Identiteit. It is an energetic, fun, positive rock album with a few twists! The vibrant, colourful personalities of these girls shone through every day in the studio, even in the toughest of times. I am very proud of what we have accomplished - the songs are all very strong and the album sounds great! The hard work is done and it's time for SAARKIE to rock SA!" - Sean Manley, Producer

SAARKIE's musical growth since the release of their debut album, Luister in 2009 is evident in the fact that all of SAARKIE's members are now graduate musicians with the result that they have improved in mastering their instruments to write better quality songs. With Identiteit they bring a unique combination of songs and instruments to the South African music industry, which will definitely leave a lasting impression in the world of rock.

"Identiteit represents a metaphorical journey through the lives of each of the members of SAARKIE, as well as every music listener, to find their own identity. The album encourages listeners to have enough self confidence to discover their own identity and to live their lives according to it." - SAARKIE

The album also contains a collaboration between SAARKIE and renowned South African rocker Jan Blohm in the form of Nader Aan My. Jan wrote the song for SAARKIE and also sings it with them on the album.

"It was an absolute honour and highlight to be associated with a celebrated artist such as Jan Blohm. We are extremely excited about the song and it fits perfectly with SAARKIE's vibe." - SAARKIE

The first single from the album, namely Oorlog In My Hart was released to radio stations in December 2010 and has received extensive airplay on campus and regional stations all over South Africa.

Identiteit will be launched this Saturday at Liedjieboer in Midrand and entrance is free! Doors open at 20h00.

Become a fan on Facebook, visit SAARKIE's website or download a teaser from Identiteit in the form of Lucky Strike for FREE here!

Gig Much?

Hey peeps!

It's Phuza Thursday (not that I drink or anything...) and time for me to share my weekly gig guide with you! So, make your pick (hint: it's RAMfest on Saturday... wink wink!), get your friends together (remember to invite the newbie so he/she can be your designated driver) and get the party started (bananas and Creme Soda will finish that hangover right off)!

Thursday, 10 March 2011

What’s Up: Josie Field

Where: Tings an’ Times, Hatfield, Pretoria

Line-up: Includes Gareth Wilson

What’s Up: Robbie Wessels

Where: Firkin, Centurion, Pretoria

What’s Up: aKING

Where: The Fugard Theatre, Cape Town

What’s Up: Durex Battle Of The Bands

Where: Tanz Café, Fourways, Johannesburg

Line-up: Includes Shortstraw, Day Far Gone, Newtown and The Fridge

What’s Up: 11^th Hour

Where: The Black Dahlia, Boksburg, Johannesburg

Line-up: Includes Agro and Balyios

Friday, 11 March 2011

What’s Up: Die Heuwels Fantasties

Where: D’Aria Wine Estate, Durbanville, Cape Town

Line-up: Includes Coenie De Villiers, Francois Van Coke and Inge Beckmann

What’s Up: Mean Mr Mustard

Where: Firkin, Centurion, Pretoria

What’s Up: Wonderboom

Where: Tanz Café, Fourways, Johannesburg

What’s Up: Double-Adapter

Where: The Assembly, Cape Town

Saturday, 12 March 2011

What’s Up: Nagskof

Where: Firkin, Centurion, Pretoria

What’s Up: Saarkie

Where: Liedjieboer, Midrand, Johannesburg

What’s Up: We Set Sail

Where: The Assembly, Cape Town

Line-up: Includes Haasbroek, Tommy Gun and Holiday Murray

What’s Up: New Holland

Where: Bohemia, Stellenbosch

Line-up: Includes Foto Na Dans

What’s Up: RAMfest

Where: Riversands Farm, Fourways, Johannesburg

Line-up: Includes Funeral For A Friend, Die Antwoord, Alkaline Trio, Knave and many more!

Have a great weekend and party safe!

Izzy
xxx

Come What May...

4AM have been climbing the ladder of the South African music scene at a steady pace since releasing their debut album Light From Light in April 2010, and they're showing no signs of slowing down!

They've recently had major TV airtime with the 4AM EPK video on SABC 2, SABC 3, M-Net Series, etc.

The release of their new single, Come What May has already been play listed on the following radio stations countrywide and is receiving an overwhelming response, so listen out for it on Highveld Stereo, KFM, Algoa FM, Jacaranda FM, Plett Radio, East Coast Radio, Tuks FM, Puk FM, UCT Radio, Kovsie FM and MFM.

Preparations for the music video are well underway so keep a close eye on 4AM's Facebook and Twitter pages for more news!

Biografie Van 'n Bende...

...Die Storie Van Fokofpolisiekar is the band's first authorised biography and reveals how five individuals became best friends and formed a world class band through blood, sweat and a few good business decisions.

Fokofpolisiekar is proud to introduce this biography to their fans. This book will be on the shelves later in March. They will hit the road like the good old times and visit Pretoria, Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Stellenbosch and Cape Town to promote the book.

Hunter, Wynand, Johnny, Francois and Jaco have made waves in the press since their first stage appearance as Fokofpolisiekar in 2003. Music critics were excited about their new Afrikaans punk rock sound, but the guys' controversial statements often made bigger headlines.

Some readers will be surprised to learn that most of the members became friends in a charismatic church, or that the band had thought out a marketing strategy before they had written any songs. Or that, at one stage, they could barely afford shampoo. Those who are curious about their lifestyle can read about the house that the band lived in, called The Barracks Of Rebellion and about the other groups like aKING, Van Coke Kartel and Die Heuwels Fantasties that were formed out of Fokofpolisiekar.

Don't miss their promotional tour where you can buy a copy of Biografie Van 'n Bende and have it signed by Fokofpolisiekar.

Friday, 18 March 2011
Line-up: Fokofpolisiekar , Not My Dog & BLK JKS
Venue: Hotbox Studios, Petoria
Cover: R100
Contact: 074143 7471
Time: Doors open 18h00

Other: The last Hotbox gig forever!

Saturday, 19 March 2011
Line-up: Fokofpolisiekar, Cutting Jade, Knave & Wake To Wonder
Venue: Cool Runnings, Fourways
Cover: R60
Contact: 082837 1968
Time: Doors open 20h00

Sunday 20, March 2011
Line-up: Fokofpolisiekar
Venue: Mystic Boer, Bloemfontein
Cover: R60
Contact: 084444 9028
Time: Doors open 14h00. Performance at 21h00.

Monday, 21 March 2011
Line-up: Fokofpolisiekar, Kabouter, The Great Apes & Saint Fearless
Venue: Klein Libertas Teater, Stellenbosch
Cover: R60
Contact: 076416 7230
Time: Doors open 13h00

Wednesday, 23 March 2011
Line-up: Fokofpolisiekar
Venue: Mercury Live, Cape Town
Cover: R80
Contact: 021 4652106
Time: Doors open 21h00