SA ROCK DIGEST ISSUE #201 http://www.sarockdigest.com 12th May 2003 Established 27th January 1999 -------------- IN THIS ISSUE -------------- James Stewart launches solo career... new Lucky Dube CD... new album coming from Watershed... a whole bunch of new CDs at One World... Kurt shines his spotlight on Valiant Swart... John listens to John Oakley-Smith... Carina saw Valiant Swart in Pretoria... Don Bryce saw Third Degree in East London... and all the gig info is at http://www.SAgigs.com ---------------------------------- SOUTH AFRICAN ROCK DIGEST ONLINE ---------------------------------- For a colorful and clickable HTML version of the SA Rock Digest with images, please visit http://rock.co.za where the online version of the SA Rock Digest can be found. Updated every Tuesday. --------------------------------------- SOUTH AFRICAN ROCK DIGEST ON THE RADIO --------------------------------------- Digest co-editor Stephen Segerman presents his SA music slot on the Bruce Millar Show on SAfm (103-106fm) on Monday evenings between 9 and 9.30pm. ------------------------------------- THE SOUTH AFRICAN ROCK ENCYCLOPEDIA ------------------------------------- From Abstract Truth to Karen Zoid, from 'Astra' to 'Zen Boulders', from 'Ag Pleez Deddy' to 'ZX Dan'... visit the South African Rock Encyclopedia at http://www.ROCK.co.za ----------- SAmp3.com ----------- Some of the new mp3's added to http://www.SAmp3.com website this week: 'Shine' - James Stewart 'Song To Jeffrey's' - Brian Finch 'Geraamtes' - Ekstra Dik 'Let's Get Naked' - Evolver 'Nicotine' - HappyFourTwenty 'Spanning' - Kaal 'Ek en Jy In Die Kaap' - Lize Beekman 'Meat' - Loogaroo 'Sexy Gal' - Mr Mo & G-Steel 'Planet' - Soil 7t7 'Oom Willem Strikes Back' - Buckfever Underground ------------ SAGIGS.com ------------ The SA Rock Digest list of recommended gigs can be found at: http://www.SAgigs.com. If you cannot access SAgigs.com please e-mail mailto:gigs@sarockdigest.com?subject=gigguide 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 mailto:intekenaar@saklank.com?subject=SAKlank Alle rasionele idees, gedagtes, bydraes, briewe en konsert-/CD-resensies is altyd welkom! ----------- ONE WORLD ----------- Selling South African Music to the World http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 ----------- CONTENTS ----------- 1.NEWS: James Stewart, RP Studios, Lucky Dube 2.CHARTS: Top 30 mp3s & albums 3.NEW RELEASES: mp3s & CDs: Watershed, One World 4.USA FOR AFRICA: Valiant Swart 5.A NAARTJIE IN THE UK: John Oakley-Smith 6.HISTORY & TRIVIA: Springbok radio charts, birthdays, Vinyl Junkies 7.SOUND SOLUTIONS: A Readers Forum 8.LIVE MUSIC: Valiant Swart, Third Degree 9.INFO: Subscriptions & contributions _____________________________________________ 1.NEWS -------- JAMES STEWART SETTING OFF IN AN UN-USUAL DIRECTION Over the past year James Stewart has been accumulating a new collection of songs, which he plans to release in a very novel way. Stewart came to prominence as vocalist and songwriter for The Usual over their successful five-year career. After a string of hits, national touring and two SAMA awards, The Usual occasionally perform together but Stewart will now be focusing on his new solo path. "I'm putting my energy into writing and recording music on my own terms", explained Stewart, "and trying to forge an identity away from a band dynamic, where I can change direction spontaneously. I am also very excited by the potential of the new available media resources like the web which allow me to connect with my fans on a far more intimate level." To this end, Stewart has set up home in cyberspace at http://www.jamesonline.co.za The primary function of this easy-to-use tool is to inform old, recent and new fans about news and gigs, and to make new songs easily available as free MP3 downloads. At this stage, James Stewart has no plans for a 'conventional release' of his new songs apart from their availability as MP3's. "I will be offering free MP3 downloads on an ongoing basis so that anyone who is interested can help themselves to my music by the simple click of a mouse, digest it, share it and hopefully fall in love with it. Hearing what people think is really important to me so I'm always going to be available to reply to emails. Through this process I want to introduce my songs to old and new fans and when they are ready to buy it, I'll send a copy of the full collection to their doorstep". The first of Stewart's new songs to be made available at http://www.SAmp3.com was 'A Man Like Me' which has been registering very impressive opening downloads. The second song to be released will be 'Shine', which is already receiving national radio play. Stewart is also preparing a set-list of songs, to be performed live in the coming months. The set-list will feature the pick of his new songs like 'A Man Like Me', 'The Meaning Of Goodbye' and 'If You'll Only Let Me In', as well as some classics such as 'The Shape That I'm In' and 'Like A Vision'. These songs will be performed in the stripped-down essential form in which they were written and recorded, with James Stewart on piano and vocals, accompanied by Tom Fox (Bright Blue, The Usual) on guitar. "The bottom line is whether a song stands or falls in its natural form. These concerts will be an opportunity to hear and judge these songs with no embellishments." Stewart has also been cultivating some strong US interest in his music over the past two years. Many of his songs have attracted the attention of various prominent US publishers, producers and songwriters. Stewart's song, 'The Meaning Of Goodbye', was featured on MTV's 'Clone High' animated series, and 'A Man Like Me' was used on the soundtrack of ABC's 'All My Children'. Seymour Stein, the President of the Sire Warner group that signed Madonna and Alanis Morissette, introduced Stewart to Mark Fried of Spirit Music Publishing. This has resulted in an ongoing collaboration with a view to securing a US label deal. His new single, 'Shine', will also be appearing on an upcoming Street Level compilation featuring the pick of the new SA pop-rock acts. Other artists appearing include Tait, Velve, Forest Moon, Happy 420, and new young rock sensations - Janie Jones. Most of these tracks were recorded at Street Level Studios, as were many of James Stewart's new tracks, apart from 'Something We Lost Along The Way', which was recorded in New York. With all these activities beginning to bear fruit, James Stewart is optimistic about the future: "Our industry is at a big intersection - CD sales are stuttering, mp3 downloads are increasing, the Internet is growing as a music media force while traditional standards are changing and disappearing. I'm trying to find a new path that utilises all these opportunities successfully, hopefully creating some alternative ways forward for myself and other artists of today." More at http://www.jamesonline.co.za/press_release_may2003.html READ http://www.jamesonline.co.za LISTEN http://www.SAmp3.com/artists_l_s.html#james ------------------------ 'DING DING LICKY LICKY LICKY BONG'......??? Lucky Dube is still South Africa's top reggae artist, has been described by Afropop.com as "The Shining Star of African Reggae", and is rated "South Africa's biggest selling contemporary artist" by the Mail & Guardian. But with the release of the succinctly titled 'Ding Ding Licky Licky Licky Bong', the first single from his brand new album, 'The Other Side', it seems that there's been far too little Lucky and far too much "dube". The song is a highly infectious {not today's most appropriate adjective. - Ed} reggae anthem, and is bound to create the desired stir both nationally and internationally. The song and album were both produced by Lucky Dube and the album features 10 new tracks. 'The Other Side' will be released through Gallo Record Company on Monday 26 May 2003. ----------------------- RP EMERGING SOUNDS COMPETITION - UPDATES The only opening for bands to enter the Johannesburg leg of the May competition is on Saturday, May 17. The Pretoria leg of this competition takes place at Tempos on Saturday, May 31. Each month, three Pretoria bands join the Johannesburg finalists at Tempos to determine which bands proceed through to the monthly regional finals at the Coliseum Show Bar at Caesars Gauteng. Therefore every month in the regional finals there will be one Pretoria band present at Caesars Gauteng. Bands have the opportunity of winning studio time courtesy of RP Studios, as well as performing a month of Sundays where they get paid for the gig, plus the monthly winners get the opportunity of being featured on a bonus compilation CD as well as performing at the Tempos Emerging Sounds festival at the end of August. Upcoming in May - RP Studios Emerging Sounds Competition: Sat May 17 · Diocese of Oblivion Sat May 24 - Fix8 - Glaze - Native Tung Sat May 31 - Jhb and Pta finals at Tempos Sun June 1 - Regional finals at Caesars Gauteng Tempos is situated on Hans Strydom Drive, Kyasands, Randburg and patrons hear nothing but South African music from both the bands and the Squire in the DJ booth. For further information and to book your band for the May RP Studios Emerging Sounds Competition contact Simon "Squire" Foulds on 082 770 7524. ---------------------- 14TH AFRO-PFINGSTEN FESTIVAL May 26th - June 11th 2003 Dear Africa Friends The 14th Festival Afro-Pfingsten is moving closer. The preparations for the festival are in full swing. We would like to present you our latest news. We are delighted to present to our festival audience a special event with numerous highlights and surprises. The up-to-date information about the program as well as about the organisation of the festival you will find on our homepage http://www.afro-pfingsten.ch The concerts are taking place at the legendary Hall 53 at Sulzer Areal. Find the highlights of this year's festival Alpha Blondy, Buju Banton, Sapho & Orients, Cheb Kader, Tabu Ley Rochereau, Oliver Mtukudzi, Coco Mbassi, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Special on the program: Urban African Music "Get the African way of clubbing": Thursday 24 h: Positive Black Soul & Pee Froiss (Senegal) Friday 24 h: U-Cef (Morocco) Sunday 24 h: Bongo Maffin (South Africa) Monday 15.30 h: Ba Cissoko (Guinea) Tickets for the concerts Afro-Pfingsten 2003 are now available. Klicket: Relax and print out your tickets at home! TicketCorner: via Internet In Switzerland at every TicketCorner office. by phone: International 0041 848 800 800 / Swizerland 0848 800 800 Afro-Pfingsten Festival Schaffhauserstrasse 4 8400 Winterthur Tel: +41(0)52 214 21 21 Fax: +41 (0) 52 214 21 22 Further information at mailto:office@africa.ch __________________________________________ 2.CHARTS ----------- TOP 30 SOUTH AFRICAN MP3s OF THE WEEK http://www.SAmp3.com 1. [5] (1) Tweak Sampler (Micassomix) - Tweak ('Dirty Sanchez and the Misfit Kidz'/BMG) 2. [8] (2) Jy Is Opium - Valiant Swart ('Song Vir Katryn'/Rhythm) 3. [4] (3) Braai Pack (Sampler) - Not My Dog ('Braai Vibes'/Sheer) 4. [7] (4) Onder In My Whiskeyglas (Live) - Koos Kombuis ('Tassenberg All*Stars'/Trippy Grape/Rhythm) 5. [15] (5) Wicked Rock Sampler - Various ('Let Us Be Heard'/Wicked Rock) 6. [9] (6) Pre-Seether Sampler - Saron Gas ('Fragile'/Musketeer) 7. [3] (3) South Africa - Eden Brent ('Something Cool'/Rhythm) 8. [2] (2) Say Goodbye - Scarlet Host (Demo/Indie) 9. [14] (9) Pretty Baby - KJ Stone ('In Different Voices'/Sonic Orange) 10. [1] (1) Fishes Of Men - Metalmorphosis ('Blistered'/Silva Moon) 11. [21] (11) Awakening - HappyFourTwenty ('Awakening'/Go!Hemp Music 12. [13] (12) Spook - Spinnekop ('Soet September'/Afrimusik) 13. [6] (1) Wish Your Were Here - Liela (SAmp3.com/Indie) 14. [19] (14) A Man Like Me - James Stewart (Indie) 15 . [16] (15) Push-up Bra - Uzo Blaker ('Volk Jou Ook'/Wildebeest) 16. [30] (16) Springbok Nude Girls Sampler (SonyMusic) 17. [22] (17) Wonderboom Sampler - Wonderboom ('Tell Someone Who Cares'/DGR) 18. [12] (3) Stand By Me - Tait (Fresh) 19. [24] (19) Mamba (demo) - Piet Botha (SAmp3.com) 20. [10] (2) Vampyre Girl - The Awakening ('Sacrificial Etchings'/Intervention Arts) 21. [11] (5) The Warrior Sampler - Ipi 'NTombi featuring Margaret Singana ('The Warrior'/Gallo) 22. [26] (22) Elungelo - RSL and Ladysmith Black Mambazo ('Re-Rooted'/FreshMusic) 23. [23] (23) Die Gipsy In Jou Oë - Anna Davel ('Gypsy'/Rhythm) 24. [29] (24) The Mississippi Muthers Blues - The Mississippi Muthers ('The Mississippi Muthers'/Indie) 25. [28] (25) Mooie Vrou - Kaal ('Blues To The Bone'/Indie) 26. [27] (26) Moan In Blues - Akkedis with Albert Frost ('Husse Met Lang Ore'/Wildebeest) 27. [18] (1) Beach Girl - Natalia ('The Street Level Sessions'/Indie) 28. [17] (7) Powerzone Roadshow Sampler - Various (SAmp3.com/Sovereign) 29. [20] (1) LekkerByDieSee - Diff Olie ('Die Borrelbad Insident'/Boereplaas) 30. [-] (30) Bleed - Loogaroo ('Loogaroo'/Indie) -------------- TOP 30 SOUTH AFRICAN ALBUMS OF THE WEEK http://www.sarockdigest.com/charts This week [last week] (highest position) Title - Artist (Label) 1. [5] (1) Tell Someone Who Cares - Wonderboom (DGR) 2. [4] (2) Something Cool - Eden Brent (Rhythm) 3. [6] (3) In Different Voices - KJ Stone (Sonic Orange) 4. [9] (4) Dirty Sanchez And The Misfit Kidz - Tweak (BMG) 5. [13] (5) Song Vir Katryn - Valiant Swart (Rhythm) 6. [1] (1) Ligdag - Laurinda Hofmeyr (Rhythm) 7. [3] (1) Awakening - HappyFourTwenty (Indie) 8. [2] (2) Sacrificial Etchings - The Awakening (Intervention Arts) 9. [16] (9) Wicked Rock: Let Us Be Heard - Various (Wicked Rock) 10. [10] (1) Luxury - Robin Auld (Free Lunch) 11. [8] (4) Khetha - Khumbula (African Cream) 12. [11] (4) Motive For Breathing - PetFlyz (Intervention Arts) 13. [7] (5) Elephant - Tim Wells (Indie) 14. [12] (1) Room2Breathe - Semisane (BMG) 15. [14] (2) Killing Time - Anika (Outbox/Rhythm) 16. [24] (16) Teaching Afrikaans As A Foreign language - Buckfever Underground (Indie) 17. [17] (2) Into The Night We Slide - Radio Rats (RetroFresh) 18. [25] (18) Gypsy - Anna Davel (Rhythm) 19. [18] (1) Catfish - Albert Frost (Rhythm) 20. [-] (20) Selfconscious - The Narrow (Intervention Arts) 21. [15] (4) Romance And Finance - Citizen Jones (Flying Kitty) 22. [19] (1) The Listening Room - Neo Muyanga (BMG) 23. [-] (23) Kaal - Blues To The Bone (Indie) 24. [21] (1) Three Piece Project - Siamese (Muskateer) 25. [-] (25) Soil 7t7 - Soil 7t7 (Indie) 26. [22] (1) Forest Moon - Forest Moon (Forest Moon) 27. [20] (1) Tap Into The System - Dorp (Contains Nuts) 28. [-] (28) Adam Tas - Nag Van Die Nerf (Wildebeest) 29. [-] (29) Uit Ons Koppe Uit - Ekstra Dik (Indie) 30. [-] (30) Roger Lucey - 21 Years Down The Road (3eM) READ http://rock.co.za/legends/2000plus LISTEN http://www.SAmp3.com BUY http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 _____________________________________________ 3. NEW, RECENT AND UPCOMING RELEASES ----------------------------------------- ------ MP3s ------ 'Shine' - James Stewart A shining example of South African pop rock at its absolute best. Imagine The Flaming Lips with Sting. Read more about James Stewart at http://www.jamesonline.co.za 'Song To Jeffrey's' - Brian Finch A 1974 folky tribute to Jeffrey's Bay and protesting about the Progress Machine. Prominent bass playing by Robert John "Mutt" Lange", long before he became "Mr Twain"! The fiddles are played by Paul Slatter. Available on the recent CD re-issue of Brian's 'Bringing Back The Good Times'. Read more at http://www.rock.co.za/brianfinch 'Geraamtes' - Ekstra Dik Powerful female vocals and great guitaring on this latest mp3 from pigeon-hole avoiding Ekstra Dik. 'Let's Get Naked' - Evolver Those who like their rock funky, or their funk rocky, need look no further. Echoes of 90s Britpop mixed up with some Tommy Bolin-era Deep Purple... Kula Shaker, anyone?. Evolver hail from Port Elizabeth and I'm sure we are going to be hearing a lot more from them. 'Nicotine' - HappyFourTwenty As promised last week, another non-album track from the happy people at HappyFourTwenty. 'Nicotine' is a fast-paced song about begging for, well, nicotine. Hear more mp3's from HappyFourTwenty at http://www.SAmp3.com/artists_e_k.html#h420 'Spanning' - Kaal Piano-led slow rock song from Kaal. Sort of like an Afrikaans Bruce Hornsby or Five For Fighting. 'Ek En Jy In Die Kaap' - Lize Beekman Soft, gentle love song about the Cape and someone very special who lives there. Great song to listen to as Sunday evening winds down. 'Meat' - Loogaroo Loogaroo rock hard and heavy with an interesting blend of vocal styles. This track would have been great on the "Daredevil" soundtrack. 'Sexy Gal' - Mr. Mo & G-Steel Reggae rapping from Mr. Mo and G-Steel. A love song with a difference. "Anyway you want me I'm gonna fit you like a glove". 'Planet' - Soil 7t7 Opening track from Soil7t7's debut CD. 'Planet' is a slow, haunting type of song with a spacey feel and a great drum sound. 'Oom Willem Strikes Back' - Buckfever Underground Strange weirdness and social commentary from the Buckfever Underground. This isn't rap, but it isn't singing either. Words fly past your head like Matrix bullets and you'll just have to do your best to catch them. Download South African mp3's from http://www.SAmp3.com ----- CDs ----- WATERSHED'S NEWIE Watershed's second album, the sequel to 'In The Meantime', is called 'Wrapped In Stone', and is released in SA this week. The first single off the album is a beguiling ballad called 'Closing Down'. -------------------------- MAY RELEASES AT ONE WORLD -------------------------- One World - Selling SA Music to the World http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 The following new CD, Video and DVD titles are now available: Video: Ipi Tombi - 'The Movie' Previously out of stock/print this is available again! Various Artists - 'Golden Gospel Vol 1 & 2' IPCC, Benjamin Dube and Ladysmith Black Mambazo are a few of the biggest artists in SA Gospel appearing on these two videos. DVD: Various Artists - 'Zulu Offerings From SA' A collection of the biggest and best in Zulu music on DVD. Various Artists - 'Sound Offerings From SA' 23 tracks from Mango Groove to Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse with everything in between! Various Artists - 'South African Souvenirs' Another fantastic collection of SA music on DVD! Pop & Rock: The Buckfever Underground - 'Teaching Afrikaans As A Foreign Language' This is sure to do well on One World and has already seen quite a bit of interest from those in the know. Tweak - 'Dirty Sanchez And The Misfit Kidz' The smash sequel to their equally-smash debut album ensures Tweak remain at the top of SA's punk rock scene! Dr Victor - 'The Sunshine Daze Remixes' Remixes of one of Dr. Victor's biggest hits! Soil 7t7 - 'Soil 7t7' A great collection of rock songs from this hard and tuneful indie band! David Marks - 'The Hidden Years' Contains 'Master Jack', the track written by David Marks that made Four Jacks & A Jill famous. Plus plenty more from Mr Marks' archives. Blues Broers - 'Sharp Street' & 'Been Around' These two mid-'90's albums are available again, thanks to Rhythm Records. Eden Brent - 'Something Cool' Eden is a blues singer and pianist from Mississippi, and her album is about her love for SA. Released on the SA label, Rhythm Records. Albert Frost - 'Catfish' (live) Another great SA release from the Rhythm Records stable. Brian Finch - 'Bringing Back The Good Times' & 'Hero Of Heroes Two Brian Finch albums (one old, one new) now available from One World. Roger Lucey - '21 Years Down The Road' (2CD) This previously banned album is now available again. Afrikaans: Valiant Swart - 'Song For Katryn' Valiant is starring in, and releasing, the soundtrack for the very successful Kyknet TV drama series! Adam Tas - 'Nag Van Die Nerf' Wildebeest records are finally back with some more great Afrikaans rock music! Kaal - 'Blues To The Bone' An independent release of good Afrikaans blues music. Various Artists - 'Volk Jou Ook - 18 Liefdesliedjies' More from the Wildebeest stable! Gert Vlok Nel - 'Beaufoort-Wes Se Beautiful Woorde' A great album that was sadly unavailable for some time is now back! Gas - 'Ets Die Oomblik' Afrikaans acoustic pop at its best! Jazz: Geoff Mapaya - 'Black Maria' The debut album from an artist who has played with everyone who is anyone in the SA Jazz scene. Brubeck/Ntoni - 'Afro Cool Concept' This has been around since 1996, but still sounds awesome. Comedy: Barry Hilton - 'Live (& Switched On') The cousin is back with a new and hysterically funny CD. Traditional: MMQ - '999 Presents' One young man keeping the spirit of Mahlatini & The Mahotella Queens alive. Dipitseng Tsa Moholo - 'Tshwara Ngwana Lephondo Buti!' A gospel album by Solly Moholo. Simba Mori - 'Celebrating Life' SA Reggae at its best! Azumah - 'Long Time Ago' An old album that may be missing from your collection? International: The Men Of Zekka - 'Beachwalk' This album will leave you amazed, Womack & Womack with some catchy jazz tunes. ZEK (Formerly Womack & Womack) - 'Sub Conscience' A remix collection of some of their best songs. Stephane Grappelli With The Diz Disley Trio - 'Durban City Hall SA'(2CD) Internationally acclaimed violinist! Fra Fra Sound - 'The African Journey' A mix of Afro and Cuban beats from this international band. Clem Tholet - 'Archives 1974 - 1980' Digitally remastered and all original versions from the Rhodesian! Township Pop: Esta M - 'Loss Matheka' A big hit CD single that is finally available. Gospel: Kori Moraba - 'Best Of' The Reverend doing what he does best. Pure Gold - 'Best Of' All their best on one CD! Platform 1 - 'Best Of' Another "best of" that is long overdue. Sibonelo - 'Masabeni' The new kid on the Gospel scene, and a talent that cannot be ignored. Various Artists - 'Gospel Goud Vol 1 & 2' All the best of Afrikaans Gospel on two CD's Kwaito: Zombo - 'Zombo' Kwaito with a ragga-maffin feel! Dr Mageu - 'No Retreat No Surrender' The ex TKzee man still rocking it. S'bu - 'Angazi Kanjani' Another of the TKZee crew doing his thing! House: Chicco - 'House Remixes' A brilliant concept with tunes to match! --------------- MORE REVIEWS --------------- More reviews can be found at: Open Record http://www.openrecord.co.za Amuzine http://rock.co.za/reviews.htm ______________________________________ 4.USA FOR AFRICA ------------------ Texas-based Kurt Shoemaker gives his unique views on SA music VALIANT SWART, FROM DORP TO LEEU While it may be true that 'Almal Mak Haar Mal', all of Valiant Swart's enthusiastic rock makes me feel pretty good. I've been listening to his work chronologically, his growth and progress, from 'Dorpstraat Revisited' to 'Maanhare'. By "growth and progress" I don't mean apprentice work, or chops learned publicly, mingling great with filler. No, his albums don't have throwaway tunes. Valiant's work does sound richer in playing and songwriting as it progresses from 'Dorpstraat' to 'Maanhare', but after 'Dorpstraat' it sounds like he leaped full grown from the brow of some rock god and onto the stage. I laugh at myself (go on, join in) to recall first hearing Valiant Swart's music. I had seen his CDs over at One World but did not know what he sounded like (in the old Internet days, before SAmp3.com) until I heard the acoustic 'Dorpstraat', and I thought, "Oh, a folkie. Nice." Then out of curiosity I bought 'Die Mystic Boer' because the cover is cool and the title intriguing. Whoa! 'Die Mystic Boer' is a rock 'n' roll performer who has mastered a range of styles but is subserviant to none. Valiant plays rock born of a bold blues heritage, here-and-there touches of country, with a sharp and clear electric guitar and energy. He may have started with a gunny sack of folk songs and lead guitar in other bands, but he's plugged in, been to the crossroads, and sings meaningful songs entertainingly. My best superlative about Valiant Swart's songwriting, said with fervor, is: "Valiant is One Helluva Songwriter." His songs, mostly in Afrikaans, are pleasure to hear, read deep in translation (thanks, Irene!), and still resonate poetically even after a dictionary is applied to his lyrics. The man is a storyteller and a poet rich in imagery. Listen to 'Maanhare', 'Matrooslied', and of course, 'Die Mystic Boer'. Any version of 'Die Mystic Boer' shows off this dramatic, spirit-filled song, but the live version closing the first of the Tassenberg series makes me feel like I'm riding into the front row of the Tassenberg Stalteater with Valiant, Schalk Joubert, Albert Frost, and Simon Orange. A good-lookin' happy fella, and now an actor--a double threat of talent. Valiant Golden better describes his career. Anyway, ek en jy, check this guy out if you haven't and it will be 'Ware Liefde'. Kurt Shoemaker, Blanco, Texas mailto:kurt@sarockdigest.com READ, LISTEN & BUY http://www.rhythmrecords.co.za/valiant_swart.html DISCOGRAPHY: Dorpstraat Revisited [1996] *** Die Mystic Boer [1997] **** Kopskoot [1997] **** Voetstoots (live) [1998, cassette only] **** Roekeloos EP [1998, re-issued 2002] ***** Deur Die Donker Vallei [1999] **** Boland Punk 1988-2001 (compilation) [2001] **** Maanhare [2002] **** Song Vir Katryn [2003] **** The entire Valiant Swart CD back-catalogue (excluding the cassette-only 'Voetstoots') is now available through http://www.RhythmRecords.co.za _________________________________ 5.A NAARTJIE IN THE UK ------------------------ London-based John Samson gives his own twist on SA music MATINEES ON SATURDAYS - JOHN OAKLEY-SMITH If that's a joint that John Oakley-Smith is smoking on the front cover of 'Matinees on Saturdays' then it's no wonder that this album didn't gain more acceptance in 1970's South Africa. However, even if the cigarette is innocent, a quick meander through the lyric sheet will pick up a number of drug references and what could possibly be the first use of the F-word on a South African album. Having got this far, one may be forgiven for thinking that maybe this is either a heavy rock or a psychedelic laden album. While there are some elements of the latter, 'Matinees on Saturdays' is gentle affair featuring Oakley-Smith's beautiful piano playing, or his gentle plucking on acoustic guitar, but also throws in harpsichord and organ for good measure. All this is melded with his fragile Nick Drake vocals to create a soothing, laid back and decidedly melancholic sound. The other striking feature of this album is the startling imagery he creates in his poetic lyrics. The words seem to come from someone living on the borders of society, observing people, feeling their pain sharing their happiness, living their dreams, but always acutely aware that he is on the outside looking in and will never be able to break through that invisible barrier. Yet there is a decided sense that he is content to live in his world. This is probably best seen in the irony-drenched baroque-esqe 'The March of The Cleanies' where he muses 'wouldn't it be good to be clean and healthy, wouldn't it be good to be wealthy and wise, wouldn't it be good to be clever and respected, looking at the world through a short back and sides'. In a post Wayne's World world the only thing missing from the song is the word 'not' at the end of the song. The combination of his poetry, delicately crafted instrumentation and expressive vocals make this an album that the word 'beautiful' is naturally attracted to. It's the kind of album that enters your head through your ears and then goes and settles into a dark corner of your brain and although it doesn't make much noise you are constantly aware of its presence and can't help looking at it for it's attractive in a strange sort of way. John Samson, London mailto:john@sarockdigest.com More info at http://www.3rdearmusic.com/hyarchive/hyreiss.html _________________________________________ 6.HISTORY & TRIVIA ------------------- SPRINGBOK RADIO CHARTS http://rock.co.za/charts This week [Last week] Title - Artist 30 YEARS AGO (11 May 1973) 1 [1] Can't Keep It In - Cat Stevens 2 [2] We Believe In Tomorrow - Freddy Breck 3 [3] The Love In Your Eyes - Vicky Leandros 4 [4] I'm On Fire - Maria 5 [5] I Don't Wanna Play House - Barbara Ray 25 YEARS AGO (12 May 1978) 1 [1] Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees 2 [2] How Deep Is Your Love - Bee Gees 3 [4] Make Love To Me - Kelly Marie 4 [6] It's So Easy - Linda Ronstadt 5 [3] Mull Of Kintyre - Wings 20 YEARS AGO (13 May 1983) 1 [1] Up Where We Belong - Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes 2 [2] Billie Jean - Michael Jackson 3 [3] Saddle Up - David Christie 4 [4] Dirty Laundry - Don Henley 5 [7] A Winter's Tale - David Essex 15 YEARS AGO (28 April 1988) 1 [3] Get Outta My Dreams - Billy Ocean 2 [1] I Think We're Alone Now - Tiffany 3 [2] Heaven Is A Place On Earth - Belinda Carlise 4 [5] Beds Are Burning - Midnight Oil 5 [6] Got My Mind Set On You - George Harrison Cat Stevens had eventually broken Freddy Breck's spell on the top spot in 1973. Stevens was now enjoying his second week at the top. The top 5 saw no change which meant that for the second week running positions 4 and 5 were occupied by South African women. The Bee Gees were experiencing their 3rd week of having the top 2 positions with 'How Deep Is Your Love' failing to dislodge 'Stayin' Alive' from the top. Linda Ronstadt also made top 5 in the US with 'It's So Easy'. Although this was her 8th hit there, it was her first to chart in SA. While the world was going Michael Jackson mad in 1983, South Africans marginally preferred Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes. However Jackson's 'Thriller' would spend a massive 58 weeks on the South African album charts (9 of the at number 1). David Essex's 'A Winter's Tale' was regarded as somewhat of a Christmas hit in the UK and accordingly had charted there over the festive season. Despite not releasing a version called 'An Autumn's Tale' the song fared well in SA, boosted by a Sun City appearance of the man. 1988 saw the welcomed return of the Dark Horse, or George Harrison, to the top 5. 'Got My Mind Set On You' would also be the last solo Beatle track to chart on the SA charts. Billy Ocean's rejuvenated career continued with 'Get Outta My Dreams' toping the chart while Aussie band Midnight Oil edged up the charts. Midnight Oil had founded the Powderworks record label in Australia. It was on this label that some of Rodriguez albums were re-released. South African's at number 1 this week: Put Your Hand In The Hand - Alan Garrity (1971) I Won't Give Up - Bruce Millar (1976) Michael Row The Boat Ashore - Richard Jon Smith (1979) South African New Entries this week: 13-May-83 I Loved 'Em Everyone - Billy Forrest 14-May-76 I'll Be Home - Jonathan Butler --------------- VINYL JUNKIES --------------- This section (named after the much-missed shop from Fishhoek) is for collectors of vinyl, both South African and International. MABU VINYL 34 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town Pendulum - 'Trailblazer' (LP) Various - 'Forces Favourites' (LP) Petula Clark - In South Africa' (Double LP) Lucky Dube - 'Together As One' (LP with Poster) Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse - 'Afrodizzia' (LP) Ellamental - 'Pressure' (12") Cash paid for records in saleable condition. Jacques Vosloo (+27 21) 423 7635 mailto:vinyl@sarockdigest.com ----------- BIRTHDAYS ----------- May 13 Dale Stephens (1957) 15 Richie Laws (The A-Cads, 1946) 18 Amanda Tiffin (1972) 30 Giselle Mynhardt (Off The Edge, 1964) 31 Tully McCully (born Terence McCullagh, 1953) If you info on any South African artists date of births, please send them to brian@sarockdigest.com?subject=birthdays ______________________________________________ 7.SOUND SOLUTIONS A Readers Forum ----------------------------------- LOOKING FOR ROB WHITEING I'm urgently trying to contact my brother Rob Whiteing who does sound hire for festivals/bands/raves/etc. He used to live in Cape Town playing bass with NO I.D. and Nadia Scaillett. He was last heard from leaving Joburg with his equipment in early February for Durban. If you have any contact for him, or if anyone knows him, could they please please ask him to contact any family member ASAP. Thanks - Graham Whiteing mailto:grahamwhiteing@aol.com -------------------------- JHB VINYL STORES? Hi, Can you please help me in my desperate search for vinyl stores in and around Gauteng? I'm looking for records from the 80's/early 90's punk/goth/indie era. Bands include Alien Sex Fiend, Joy Division, Clash, UK Subs, Jam, New Model Army, Joy Division, Circle Jerks, James Ray, Red Lorry, Echo & Bunnymen, etc, etc. I've been searching for months, but have only found Microgram Records at the Old Market Theatre in JHB. I remember the days when Street Records, Bizarre, Sugar Trax, etc existed, but those good old days are over! I have also tried Vibes and Outlaw Records in CPT. Anyway, thanks for your time. I hope you can point me in the right direction. Regards, Steve mailto:stevep@mail.riverglades.co.za Ed's comments: We recommend you start by contacting Jacques Vosloo at Mabu Vinyl in Cape Town, his contact details are in the Vinyl Junkies section above. Not sure about the better Jo'burg vinyl stores/outlets. Yeah, Street Records is still missed by many - the new pile of imports in the "new" section, the walk up the stairs to the record library, and finding all the new arrivals ready for borrowing. I heard Sarah and John from Street Records are still involved in vinyl, anyone got any info on this? Please email mailto:vinyl@sarockdigest.com ----------------------- NAME THAT SONG!? Hello there, There is this song that is being used on MTN's latest TV ad that involves a guy in a taxi who's trying to get the attention of a girl in a taxi next to him. However I'm not even close to its name or the artist. Anyone know? Also, I hope u can help me with my current search in locating three SA hits that I just can't seem to find. They are: 'Born In A Taxi' - Blk Sonshine 'Mysterious Girl' - Dr Victor 'Someone Else's Girl' - Karoo Hope u can help Shalin mailto:shariparsad@yahoo.com {Try One World http://www.oneworld.co.za/index.cfm?bec=4321 - ed} --------------------- AT THE ZOO What ever happened to Levannah, vocalist of the group Qkumba Zoo, Is she doing any solo projects these days? Brian mailto:WMGK@webtv.net --------------------- BABY BOOGIE ANYONE? Greetings, I have been searching all over for an old song that seems to have come out in the '70's. I am looking for a song by an unknown artist that I think is called 'Baby Boogie'. There is a male singer with a baby that gurgles & says " boogie boogie boogie..." between the verses. I believe there also was an Afrikaans version released by Gert Potgieter. Please, if anyone knows who the artist on the English version is, or if anyone has either of the versions on tape, 7" single or mp3, or knows where I can get it for a reasonable price, please e-mail me soonest. It is for my future daughter-in-law who is soon to have a baby and will be returning to Durban for a short while. Thank you ! - Peter mailto:skullywag@eject.co.za {You are looking for 'Baby Sittin' Boogie' recorded by Buzz Clifford in 1961 which went to #6 in the US. - ed} -------------------------- SA PUNK Vini Locura (ex-Vendetta Cartel), has a band practice room in the Jhb area available from R30 an hour, it includes full P.A., mics and basic skeleton drum kit. Other equipment must be provided e.g. amps and guitars. e-mail him at vendetta-cartel@webmail.co.za A three piece punk band in Cape Town are looking for a competent bass guitarist to complete their line-up. Influences are far ranging from metal, old school, ska to grunge. It would be preferable if you lived around the Meadowridge/Bergvliet/Constantia area. If you are interested, contact: Jacques 083-277-2778 (jacques_de_villiers@hotmail.com) Brent 021-715-1766 See http://www.sagigs.com for this week's recommended SA punk gigs. -------------------------- GOT A QUESTION? Please email any musical questions to mailto:soundsolutions@sarockdigest.com This section is sponsored by: SOUND SOLUTIONS Sound Solutions is a private music library in Cape Town that offers music searches, and the sourcing and recommending of songs and music soundtracks for television, film, and radio productions and commercials. Contact: Stephen Segerman - (021) 461-9541 mailto:sugar@rock.co.za ______________________________________________ 8.LIVE MUSIC --------------- ------- EVENTS ------- LUNA NEWS Following a sell-out show at the Dorp Street Theatre in Stellenbosch (25 April), and a well received performance at the Sederberg Festival (2 May), Luna will be performing at the Independent Armchair Theatre in Observatory on Saturday 24 May and at The Mercury Lounge on Thursday 29 May . The band is currently working on their first studio recording at the Sunset Recording Studio in Stellenbosch and will release a 6-track mini album (to be sold exclusively at their shows) towards the end of May. Furthermore, a tour is planned for Pretoria/Jo'burg between 28 May and 10 June. ----------------- DAN SHOUT QUARTET AND DA BAND The Dan Shout Quartet (DSQ) is playing at Kennedy's in Long Street every Wednesday. The group plays mostly Jazz standards and some funk, but are starting to play some original stuff and a couple of more contemporary tunes that they've transcribed from people like Joshua Redman and Victor Bailey. DSQ also features Mike Horne (drums), Dave Cousins (piano) and Joe Penn (bass). Another very exciting band that is sounding really great at the moment is DA Band (Darryl Andrews Band), featuring Dan Shout (alto, soprano) Simon Bates (tenor), Miso Markovina (bari), Vaughn Fransch (trumpet), Alex Gibbons (trumpet 2), Justin Sasman (trombone), Clemment Bennie (drums), Shaun Johannes (bass), Dave Cousins (piano), Darryl Andrews (guitar) and Zayne and Danielle on vocals. It's a Latin tentet (and 2 singers) and they are playing next Thursday (15 May) at 'Swingers' in Wetton. DA Band play straight-ahead Latin Jazz that is very danceable, featuring the various members of the band and also have some awesome arrangements/transcriptions (by Darryl Andrews) of stuff by Earth, Wind and Fire, Incognito, Buckshot La Fonque, Santana, Jennifer Lopez and other funky stuff. ---------------- LIVE IN LONDON ---------------- STARSEED Starseed will be playing at the prestigious Rock Garden at Covent Gardens on Bank Holiday Monday 26 May. This venue has seen the likes of U2 and the Rolling Stones perform here. The band are expecting some record company execs to be at the gig so they need all the support they can get. Having seen them at a small gig in South London this week, I can highly recommend this gig. These guys play great melodic rock and the lead singer has a voice that was made for this type of music. ---------- REVIEWS --------- VALIANT HAS NOT LEFT THE BUILDING We thought we'd be okay. Valiant came and thrashed Oppikoppi. Now we could recover, regroup and retread our tyres. We were wrong. Steak & Ale booked the man for Wednesday, and Café Barcelona grabbed him for the evening after that. No biggie. It's just the man and his guitar, right? Wrong. The whole band was at Steak & Ale. Barry van Zyl on drums, Albert Frost on lead, Schalk Joubert on bass (of course) and Valiant on vox and rhythm. We never had a bloody chance. Always Valiant started out lekker slow, confusing the lads and lasses in the front row with the sad songs, those tunes that turn your heart into a slipknot. He introduced the crowd to Song Vir Katryn's new tunes, like "Liefde In Die Suburbs", "Hawelose Lewe" and "Die Son Sak In Danville". Albert (yeah, the closet sadist) started sliding with that copper finger from the third song. At first glance the females in the crowd seemed transfixed - and quickly I realised why. Albert and Valiant and Schalk. Talent inside and outside. Barry stoically percussing in the corner, still managing to look like this lean hungry beast with magic sticks. Ahhh it was good. Delayed gratification at its best - especially when Valiant did that yummily demonic thing "Slangdans". Schalk yanked his jersey over his head, Barry put his specs aside - and "Jy Is Opium" blew us away. I think it was then when the dam wall broke. Imagine a thunderstorm in a shooter glass. The walls were bulging (but then again, the Tassenberg wine bottles were mighty strong) and Valiant Swart with Band went ape. "Eyeshadow", "Moeilikheid Met Die Man" - that one got a lot of evil sly smiles from those stricken with that thing called "geit" - and "Donkerpad" made me float to a place with mad guitars, golden tequila and swollen dark clouds filled with the blues. Magic. It was a late night. We hit the highway with burning eyes and a strange buzz in both ears. Café Barcelona was waiting. This venue is bigger - and filled to the brim. I wondered for a moment who came to see Valiant the rocker poet and who came to see Jinx the kykNET rocker doctor. It was just Valiant and Albert. The atmosphere was electric, a kind of breathless anticipation to see this man live. On stage I saw an amazing thing. Six guitar cases stacked next to each other like brothers in arms. Gooseflesh crept in from nowhere and lingered for hours on my skin. It became worse with "Whiskey En Reën," more so with Albert Frost's last sweet slow slide on the brim of Valiant's voice. The crowd listened, gasped and then listened some more. On special request, Valiant did "Jesus Kwêla". Applause boomed and thundered from the back of the bar and settled on the stage. Then "Oorlede Lettie", "Ware Liefde", he teased the Freestaters, tempted fate by making fun of the Blue Bulls, laughed, played some more guitar - and had the crowd at his feet. Albert never disappeared into the background. "Mystic Boer" started rising from the guitar strings. Albert and Valiant mutated from two boyishly charming dudes with acoustic guitars into a mean heated motherless electric duel that would rip delicate bodices and make maidens rethink their unscathed honour. It was nuts, it was totally insane. People at the back were staring at Albert. You couldn't see his hands move. Valiant's eyes were two mystic dark holes and his arms, his hands, his fingers - they were all over that white Fender. We had to come down from the ceiling. But it's obvious - when you see Valiant live, the only thing that will let you sleep, is one helluva strong Valium. Carina Melville READ, LISTEN & BUY http://www.rhythmrecords.co.za/valiant_swart.html --------------------- HEMINGWAYS BATTLE OF THE BANDS Don Bryce was at the Red Bishop, in East London, to watch some awards being dished to out to some hot new bands. An astounding 2000 people streamed into the huge tent at the Red Bishop on Saturday night to witness seven bands and seven soloists vie for honours in the finals of the Hemingways GO! Live! Music Awards. Organiser Daron Mann said that he was thrilled with the overwhelming support given to the occasion. "Just standing backstage and observing the thrill our local bands got from stepping out in front of an audience like that, was an awesome experience" he added. The judges had an unenviable job picking the winners. Unfortunately there could only be one winning band and one winning soloist, with a separate prize for best original material, and the choice was made difficult by the all around excellent quality of the talent on offer. Whoever didn't come out on top, was very close behind! Best band was Radioflyer, consisting of Nick Mitten, Cliff Booysen, John David and Shane Harris, who did three original numbers titled 'Another Way Out', 'Imperfect', and 'Forever'. Top soloist was Kerry McLaren with an original song and the haunting Tracy Chapman number, 'Fast Cars'. Best original song was composed and performed by four piece outfit Arnaz, sometimes known as Twiddler. Points were awarded in a wide spread of categories, from instrumental and vocal ability to audience rapport, energy, tightness and audience acclaim. It was gratifying to see so many local artists performing good original and cover material with such a high standard of musicianship. The only blot on the proceedings was an electrical supply problem which caused the power to suddenly go on and off at frequent intervals. This must have been quite unnerving for the performers, and very harsh on the sound equipment. All in all it was a tremendously well-organised and well supported event, which will hopefully become an annual institution on East London's music calendar. (DB) -------------------- GETTING TRASHED AT TRAFFORDS WITH REFINED EAST LONDON BAND THIRD DEGREE By Don Bryce Third Degree, currently playing at Traffords in Vincent, has that solid old-fashioned wholesome sound I like, but that doesn't mean they play only old fashioned music. Expect anything from Creedence and REM to Nickleback and Green Day when you go down and listen to them. There are two Leons, a Len and a Craig in the band. Leon le Roux, lead guitarist, who can also do bass and backing vocals, was just a pikkie when he started playing with Peter's Clan in 1980. Leader of that respected group was Peter de la Rey, Leon's stepfather, lead vocalist and impresario deluxe. Not surprisingly, it was Peter who triggered Leon's interest in music. "I can't single out a particular best gig, there are simply too many," says Leon. He has kept his interest in music and developed his talent, while pursuing his career to managerial level in the Inland Revenue Service. Leon du Plessis, a bank manager whose first love is bass, is also a skilled drummer, guitarist and vocalist who can imitate Clapton to a T. His most memorable show was at a reunion of a former band, Stealing Off The Washing Line [he won't elaborate on the origins of that name!]. They got together two years after the band broke up, and the "magic was still there!" Cellphone shop owner Craig Smith, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist in the band, is a vibrant party animal who is as self-deprecating as he is good at what he does. He started the musical side of his career by playing piano, but having gleaned the basics, soon dropped that for guitar and vocals. His best-remembered gig was with a band called the Luminous Toothpicks at Eagles in Klerksdorp. Drummer Len Cloete, who is a teacher by day, is every inch the professional. Len listens to Toto, early Van Halen and Nickleback. He started playing drums twenty years ago, having been "blown away" by Rabbitt drummer Neil Cloud at a live concert. He has played with bands too many to mention, though his most memorable gig was supporting Mango Groove as drummer for Casual Culture. He says he has found his niche with his current band, and all their gigs so far have been "great". Len's greatest achievement? "Marrying my wife, Michelle. She's one great woman!" Who inspires Third Degree? "Queen, particularly guitarist Brian May", says Leon le Roux. "Queen, Bon Jovi, Eagles, U2", says Craig. Leon du Plessis turns analytical: "in bassists, Alphonso Johnson and Nathan East & drummers would have to be Harvey Mason and Steve Gadd". Len draws inspiration from some classy drummers like Carter Beauford of the Dave Matthews band and Journey's Steve Smith. Settling down to listen to them, you are impressed by their paradoxically tight yet relaxed sound. No stress among the members, they all seem comfortable with each other. You have to applaud the never-ending Pointer Sisters number, 'Fire' (composed by Bruce Springsteen), but you don't know when to because of the many stops and starts. Bill Withers' 'Ain't No Sunshine' gets everyone's attention and more applause. Live, Nickleback and Eagle Eye Cherry always lift my neck hairs, and Third Degree handles all of them. Oh help! I can't decide between 'Save Tonight' and 'Lightning Crashes' for pure beauty. I think the lovely phasing solo intro to 'Lightning Crashes' done on acoustic guitar by Craig just tilts the scales for me. Leon le Roux feeds on the power and we hear some impressive guitar in Nirvana's 'Come As You Are' and Buggles' 'Video Killed the Radio Star'. Nice basswork by Other Leon and drums by Len on Green Day's 'Warning'. Then a flood of precipitation songs like 'I Love A Rainy Night' and 'Have You Ever Seen The Rain' followed by some more Creedence classics gets the people up and dancing. Yes, I would definitely go a long way to hear this band. (DB) ---------- GIG GUIDE ---------- The SA Rock Digest list of recommended gigs can be found at: http://www.SAgigs.com. If you cannot access SAgigs.com then please e-mail mailto:gigs@sarockdigest.com?subject=gigguide and we will e-mail the gig guide to you each week. Please send all gig info to mailto:sugar@sagigs.com in a plain text e-mail. ___________________________________________ 9.INFO -------- ------ LINKS ------ Links to artists, gig guides, resources, record labels, recording studios, music trivia and more at: http://www.sarockdigest.com/links --------------- SUBSCRIPTIONS --------------- To subscribe - please send an e-mail to: mailto:subscribe@sarockdigest.com?Subject=NewSubscriber Address changes - please send an e-mail to: mailto:subscribe@sarockdigest.com?Subject=AddressChange To unsubscribe - please send a blank e-mail to: mailto:unsubscribe@sarockdigest.com?Subject=Unsubscribe BACK ISSUES http://www.sarockdigest.com/archives Online and keyword searchable PRESS RELEASES & CONTRIBUTIONS Please submit all press releases, contributions, reviews, gig & festival dates, requests, searches and comments to mailto:sugar@sarockdigest.com?subject=SARockDigest EDITORS Brian Currin Stephen Segerman mailto:editors@sarockdigest.com?subject=ToTheEditor CONTRIBUTORS Don Bryce Carina Laubscher Tertius Louw Daniel Neville Shiloh Noone John Samson Kurt Shoemaker Wicked Mike Proofed by Ronx SA Rock Digest Computer Systems maintained by Karl Hansen. 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