Cape Town Folk 'n Acoustic Music Fest:

 Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

Rocking with the Stars - Kings of Chaos

It was Friday morning early and I was on the N2 freeway heading towards Cape Town. Now this is nothing out of the ordinary, except that the soul reason for my visit to the City, despite very dire weather conditions, was to attend the Kings of Chaos Rock concert at the Grand West Casino. 

After picking up our golden circle tickets, my fellow sister in rock mentioned that this event was a dream come true. We remembered discussing about a year ago how unbelievable it would be if we could see Slash and Myles Kennedy performing live while religiously listening to their Apocalyptic Love album. When a friend told us a couple of months later that the Kings of Chaos tour was destined for the Mother City we were in heaven! The delightful news that Myles Kennedy was joining the party at the last minute was a added wonder because we are also great Alter Bridge fans. But we were also in for a musical experience of a lifetime with 9 of the world's most talented and experienced Rock and Roll stars in the lineup. Joe Elliot from Def Leppard, Duff McKagan (G&R) Gilby Clark(G&R), Matt Sorum(G&R), Dave Kushner(Velvet Revolver), Ed Roland (Collective Soul) and Mr Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple). What a lineup!

We were heading to the concert in a couple of hours. I couldn't help but to sit with a smile plastered on my face which lasted way into the weekend because of sheer rock 'n roll inspired bliss. When we arrived at the Casino we were dismayed by the ques but we were soon inside the arena eagerly awaiting the legends to appear on stage. The crowd was a collective soul of rock 'n roll fans from the early days of Guns 'n Roses and Deep Purple and fresh young faces who clearly understood what real music was about. 

What we were about to witness will perhaps cause many a future gig to look pale in comparison. Its not everyday that one gets to experience musical royalty in action – and that but a few meters from the stage. The opening announcement was backed by royal orchestral music as each artist was introduced onto the stage and the anticipation in the crowd was electric. 

After a couple of Deep Purple classics and an introductory performance by each artist followed an apparently impromptu acoustic set that beautifully left me with tears in my eyes and a big smile on my face. Knocking on heavens door had the whole crowd joining in song. But I must single out Mr Glenn Huges' solo performance of Mistreated – astoundingly powerful vocal ability exhibited by the Deep Purple star. This performance had the crowd gasping and Mr Hughes' voice is probably still resonating within the walls of the arena. In fact I find it hard to describe the essence of that 7 minutes and the ambiance in the arena as 7000 people were swept of their feet. The other artists watched with mutual respect and admiration as Hughes sang and gave him a standing ovation. As Joe Elliot noted afterward “How does one follow that?” But it was followed by performances no less spectacular... 

 Photo by Warren Talmarkes, Channel 24

The crowd sang along like angels to Two Steps Behind by Def Leppard. Ed Roland gave a delightful performance and I was impressed at how humble all the artists appeared to be considering their collective talent and success (together they sold more than 300 millions albums worldwide!!) In fact they all have a contagious and addictive energy that is understandable considering they get to make excellent music almost everyday of their lives. 

  Photo by Mark Rojas

The acoustic part of the show already left me awestruck but as promised they still followed with some hard rock 'n roll. Myles Kennedy delivered the Guns and Roses classic Sweet Child of Mine brilliantly and I was sublimely thrilled when I recognized the unmistakable opening of the Led Zeppelin Classic Immigrant Song performed by Myles Kennedy – a sweet and unforgettable surprise that still leaves me with goosebumps at the thought of it. Pour Some Sugar was a distinct crowd favourite. 

Photo by Warren Talmarkes, Channel 24

  

Slash without question was stunning and flawless, voicing a simple greeting to the crowd but an appreciated gesture. Ex front man Axl Rose's boots are big and Myles Kennedy manages to fill them with grace and an air of humility that is worthy only to such a crown prince of Rock. Their artistic abilities was a blessing to witness and apart from being on stage myself I doubt I could have been radiating more happiness when leaving the arena. Their last but memorable performance was Guns & Roses' Paradise City leaving the crowd not wanting to go home … but finally reluctantly leaving the arena with satisfied stars in their eyes...

I was still awake at 4 o clock on Saturday morning, long after the concert ended. The music was still pulsing in my veins, the smile still firmly on my lips, the stage setting replaying in my mind. I was psyched and starstruck and inspired for having seen these true diamonds within the crown of rock 'n roll.

Words by Adel La Kok.

 Photos by Warren Talmarkes (Channel 24) and Mark Rojas.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

DPC Traffic shoot: Winter in the City

We recently had the privilege of doing a shoot for the trendy, streetwear brand Traffic Clothing. Since the start of 2012, I fell in love with the brand - Their clothes fit perfectly with life in the city: smart, comfortable and ever so trendy. They recently launched their Winter 2013 range at the gorgeous Shimmy Beach and it was everything I had hoped for - beautiful darker shades, layers and different textures paired with daring studs, prints and sequins.

Traffic's 2013 Winter range is definitely one of my favourites this year. They have quite a few really bold pieces which is perfect for cold night's out in the Mother City (look out for the studded, leather jacket!). There is also beautiful black and gold (also the semi-theme of our shoot) pieces that can be worn with basically anything and you can be sure you will make a statement! Think chunky knits and shorts and dresses with bold sequins.

So last weekend, we gathered our hot water bottles, scarfs and beanies, and went out in the cold Cape Town weather to shoot for Traffic Clothing. It was possibly the coldest weekend of 2013 yet, but we pushed through and got some amazing shots - even a few in the icy hail!

These gorgeous dresses are perfect for winter nights out. Wear them with stockings and pair it with a beautiful coat and you're good to go. 

 

The above black and gold skull-printed top was one of our favourite pieces. Pair it over a black or gold top and add some skinnies - perfect city outfit!

The above black and gold striped jersey goes with nearly anything! Pair it with skinnies or a skirt and heels, and you are ready for the Mother City's icy weather.

Above. This camo top can be worn on its own or over a black or gold top. We love the gold stud touch!

Above. Possibly the two most trendiest, streetwear outfits. Gold, chunky knits paired with black skinnies and gold, shorts over stockings.

Above. The black peplum dress, paired with a beautiful black and gold printed jacket.

Above. The black, leather jacket with gold studs worn with the skull top and maroon skinnies.

Visit Traffic's Facebook page for more updates and info on their Winter range:  Here
All prices available in store - Long Street and Canal Walk.

Also look out for their website coming soon!

Photographer: Adel La Kok

Shoes and beanies models own.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

DPC Interview Series:

The Black Market Riots was born in 2008 and through the years had built quite a following in the local music scene. The journey has not been without obstacles like changing the line up a few times, but they had always managed to work through it.

In 2008 they won the Mystic Boer Battle of the Bands, which landed them a recording slot with Franschhoek studios where they recorded their 8 track EP titled, “Box of Dreams”. Their EP together with their debut music video “Machine” was released in 2009 at Aandklas, Stellenbosch. Possibly the biggest tipping point for the band was the writing and recording of their single 'When we Collide' in late 2010. Which could be seen as their own musical revolution, where they tried new material, different to their previous work.

Most recently they released their singles 'Minority' and 'Handcuffs' in 2012. Both takes you on a different kind of journey and you get a taste of the growth the band had up until then. These guys have a passion for making music and it is evident in the 'sound revolution' they had through the years. Since they have managed to create a very unique and real kind of sound.

I recently saw them live for the first time at Utopia Festival and I was quite impressed with their performance, especially with the amount of energy they performed with - not necessarily carried over through their bodies, but also in Danie's strong vocals, the way the guitarist held their instruments and generally in the atmosphere they created. I remember thinking, 'If they can do this in front of a small crowd, imagine what they can do on a main stage in front of thousands...' The guys definitely have a stage presence very few other bands can pull off on the last day of a festival (possibly tired, weak, cold and hungry).

So, you guys have been together for 5 years, is it? Give us a little history about the journey of Black Market Riots?

Yup, just turned 5. It’s been an incredible journey with many twists and turns in the road but luckily we stuck to our path. Started back in 2008 with our first show and since then we have played some awesome venues/fests etc. Unfortunately we have had to sit through some growing pains with band members leaving the band, but this has never stopped us from doing what we love!

For someone who’s never heard your music, how will you guys describe it?

Explosive energetic alternative rock & roll. But well like when people make up their own minds about us, good or bad…. we like the feedback.

Why ‘Black Market Riots’? What’s behind that name?

At first the name really fit our first round of music writing. Crazy, loud and just about anything we like. But as time rolled on the name actually made much more sense to us than we thought it would. It boils down to individualism, being who you want to be but always consider your neighbour, because every action has a reaction.

"We had the most fun at Oppikoppi 2008 by far. Guess it’s because we were fresh out the starting blocks and it’s Oppikoppi obviously..."

 We loved your set at Utopia and we know you’ve played quite a couple of festivals and events? Any favourites?

We had the most fun at Oppikoppi 2008 by far. Guess it’s because we were fresh out the starting blocks and it’s Oppikoppi obviously. As far as gigs go, it would have to be opening for Springbok Nude Girls. No words…

Tell us how you guys experience a festival: What do you pack, where do you sleep etc.

Mostly we just pack what we really need, black label, a pillow, buns and chips, the rest normally comes as it goes. Rough is tough and that’s what we like.

How about venues and crowds in Cape Town? We’ve heard that they are pretty mild compared to crowds in J’burg and overseas. How do you guys experience it?

This is a tough one. We can talk about this for days. In general it isn’t easy to pull off the best gigs. Especially now in winter, it is even harder, but it all boils down to marketing, getting the media in there, hooking up with the right bands for the right show. But you ask how we experience it? FRUSTRATING with a tad of ENJOYMENT.

So, about the local SA music scene. Do you guys think there’s enough opportunities for bands wanting to make it big?

There are yes. But it all depends on the hard work and effort the band puts in to it. That is the only way to reach goals and grab opportunities. We have some really great SA bands, just feel that some of them have reach the ceiling and should shoot for greater heights outside SA, but again, super hard work.

Is there enough support from the public?

Not long ago we had this discussion on radio and I think this goes to any band out there wanting to make it somehow. We have noticed at some gigs that people would come to gigs, pay the cover charge and then only watch the band their “buddies” play in and then leave. To us this is strange, is this not why you go out to discover and support the local scene? So we would say it’s 50/50. Ofcourse the more established bands do get all the support, but with the up and coming acts it’s a different story. Bands need support and that’s that!

And about your fans - describe a BMR fan?

We have no idea how to answer this question. Maybe ask the fans…

Any funny groupie stories?

Well Pierre had a creepy man following him around at some of our gigs. This was sooooo weird. Not even funny, just super creepy.

  
"I guess being in a band is one massive great moment..."

  Tell us about that single greatest moment since forming the band?

We have had so many great moments. This goes from band practise to shows. I guess being in a band is one massive great moment.

You had to say goodbye to Tim, your drummer, recently. Tell us about that and the process of choosing a new drummer?

This was very hard on us. We became such great friends and it’s always difficult to say goodbye to someone who had so much influence in the band, but we had to move on and luckily the process wasn’t that bad this time around. So we recently got Fano to join the band and we are super excited for the new roads to follow, with every new member joining, our sound evolves…very exciting times!

Please share something about Black Market Riots that no one knows?

Danie – Band dad
Rudolph – The young one
Pierre – Extreme math nerd
Fano – Fanew guy

Do you guys carry lucky charms or have any tradition/rituals before a show?

Naaaaa, a lucky charm comes in a bottle, namely Jaggermeister. Our normal ritual goes something like this: We suck, try to play well and let’s see how it goes! Self confidence = TICK

"We are working on new material and hoping to release our very first full album. Some secret plans, but you will have to wait and see!"

What are you guys planning for the rest of 2013? Can we expect a tour soon?

We are working on new material and hoping to release our very first full album. Some secret plans, but you will have to wait and see!

Where’s your next gig?

Currently we are only putting time in to our practise and getting Fano up to speed with our songs. We are planning a couple of dates in July, but we will be having our 5 year birthday gig in August, expect a biggy!

Finally, where can we find you on the interwebs?

You can see EVERYTHING at www.blackmarketriots.com - all our songs are free for download, all the various links to our facebook, twitter, soundcloud and youtube plus you can download our press kit for even more info!

Thanks boys! 



Last year Black Market Riots went to studio for the first time since recording their demo 'When We Collide' back in 2010. With new band members and a new sound they are determined to make their mark on the local alternative scene!

This video showcases the recording process and introduces each band member as they recorded 'Minority' and 'Handcuffs' at Digital Forest Studio. As a bonus, they self-produced and recorded 'The Sounds We Feel' especially for the video, which is available for download, as is all their material, at www.blackmarketriots.com

Two bottom photos by Lupa Photography: Facebook Page

 
Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

Zebra & Giraffe on tour:

Zebra & Giraffe will be on the road from 18 – 29 June for their annual unplugged tour. The tour will be visiting the following cities: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Knysna, Port Elizabeth and East London. 

Fresh off the back of their 2nd SAMA win for “Best Rock Album” and the success of their Top 10 single 'Sons', Zebra & Giraffe will hit the road from 18 – 29 June, to meet up with fans nationwide for their annual unplugged SA tour. They will be doing intimate, acoustic shows across South Africa, performing stripped down versions of popular songs from all three of their albums.

The tour will be visiting the following cities: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Knysna, Port Elizabeth and East London.

Zebra & Giraffe recently released their brand new single, Yesterday, after the previous single Sons reached no. 5 on the 5fm Top 40 and stayed on the chart for 8 weeks. They have undoubtedly earned their place as one of South Africa's best-loved and most respected bands over the past few years. Zebra & Giraffe beat Coldplay and Green Day to win Best Alternative at the MTV Africa Music Awards in 2009, and snatched their first trophy for “Best Rock Album” in the same year at the South African Music Awards. 

With nominations streaming in and singles on continuous radio rotation, it's no wonder Zebra & Giraffe were chosen to perform in front of 60 000 people alongside Oasis and Snow Patrol at the Coca-Coca Zero Fest. Later in 2009, The Killers picked Zebra & Giraffe to support them on the South African leg of their world tour, where the band performed to over 50 000 people.

The annual mid year tour brings all of the band’s successes and skill together in an intimate showcase that suits the seeking of warm winter gatherings. 

Connect with Zebra & Giraffe on Facebook (www.facebook.com/zebraandgiraffe) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/zebraandgiraffe) or visit www.zebraandgiraffe.co.za for the venues, dates, cover costs and tour news.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

Win a trip to IBIZA!

Largest online treasure hunt to win all expenses paid trip to Ibiza

Flights!  Accommodation! A full weekend pass to the hottest parties! You name it Olmeca Tequila, the premium tequila brand with an authentic Mexican heritage and the ultimate party goer’s favourite tequila have bottled an awesome prize for 5 lucky bloggers and 1 of their winners to Ibiza in September 2013.

The island of Ibiza entices adventure and exploration and what better way to claim your passport to Ibiza than a contemporary island style treasure hunt. Successfully complete a series of challenges online and uncover 5 bottles from the Olmeca Tequila range and be entered into the competition to stand a chance win.

What can the winners expect as their feet hit the Mediterranean shores of Ibiza? Besides its’ beauty, nothing less than checking in to some of the islands most celebrated hotels, fine dining and of course being the party capital of the world, a night at Space Ibiza one of the islands most noted clubs and a renowned temple of electronic dance music.

After a day filled with jet skiing, a banana bus trip, massages and getting their skin sun-kissed, on Saturday the 8th of September, winners will see electro-house DJ and one of the world’s most formidable producers, Martin Solveig as well as French duo Cassius, headline a packed Pacha Club bringing an undisputable star wattage and electro-house experience to the trip.

Want in on the action? Visit Olmeca Tequila SA facebook page to enter. Or bangersandnash.com, dontparty.co.za, mahala.co.za, mycitybynight.co.za, we-are-awesome.com !!

Enjoy Responsibly. Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

What's the deal?

So what exactly is the deal with some clubs running empty on a Friday or Saturday night? I mean yes, if there's nothing going on, by all means, go look for greener pastures, but these guys actually have live events going on! Live bands playing to crowds of 10 and 20 people! What exactly is going on in Cape Town and why are we not supporting like we should?

Yes, the times and scenes are changing. No longer do you really get "specialty clubs". Clubs and bars that stick to a certain genre and play only a certain type of music at least 80% of the time. Gandalf's use to be mostly a metal club, but those days are gone. Recently I went to a club to go watch two metal bands play to contribute to build a local skate park. Now, let's get one thing straight: The bands were booked, the venue was set and the door wide open. The question is: Where were you?

I have heard over and over how people complain about metal not growing to its full potential in Cape Town. There's no doubt that metal is a difficult genre to accommodate in a city where trance and rock rule the scene. But do we really not want it to be relevant at all?

If you complain that you don't hear any metal on local radio stations at all and clubs don't hold their doors open to metal bands, than who's to blame? Them for not supporting anything other than rock or pop or us who cannot create a decent following for them to actually use?

Do we not then support every single possible event that contribute to the keeping alive of metal in the city? Yes, you do listen to your favourite metal bands in the comfort of your candle lit room, but certainly you want the scene to grow locally? You want new bands to listen to and most certainly you want a club or two where you can go see them on the occasional night out?

So, to pay R50 to see two great metal bands on one night - I mean is it really too expensive? Off course there is a lot you can do with R50, like buy a pack of Texan plain or that beautiful, black cutex you want. I mean, these bands need support - They need their fans to step up and fight for the music.

I have since spoken to a few people who told me this: Yes, the metal scene is alive and well in certain ways - the annual Metal Fest held in Stellenbosch and most certainly on the internet where you can watch and listen to (mostly international) metal bands. But we are all sceptical: is it enough? Is this really all that a young, upcoming metal band can look forward to? You decide for yourself.

And skaters of Cape Town, this is for you: You can buy your expensive deck and skate shoes, but you can't pull R50 out of your pocket and support local skating? Seriously. Why bitch and moan about skate parks being too crowded or you having to drive far to get to one, when you cannot help support to build a new one at your doorstep?  

So, here's the thing: Either you pull a finger and support your local bands and causes, or you can go put a plug in your trap and keep it shut.

Thank you. 

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com

MUSIC?

Last week I had the privilege of attending the launch of Frank Freeman's new documentary held at Mercury in Cape Town. The short film is about music and what role it plays in society. The launch was concluded with a set from Frank Freeman himself. Cape Town photographer Belia Oh also exhibited some of her work on large print outs.

I wish more Capetonian's can take this step and present their work like these two artists. It was a relaxed and enjoyable evening where I could have a glass of wine or two and enjoy creative and inspiring work by others. To me, this is definitely what the Cape Town lifestyle is about - art and music brought together by creative individuals wanting to entertain.

Frank Freeman's documentary, Music?, featured some local musicians such as Jedd Kossew from Van Coke Kartel, drummer Sheldon Yoko and more being interviewed about music and exactly where it fits into society. Although the film was a bit short, I appreciate the effort and I can definitely see the talent behind it. Go watch the documentary here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a25cYBDAqRw

However, it was Frank's set that was the most spectacular. Why have I never seen him before? I was pleasantly surprised by he's instrumental and vocal talent. Frank Freeman has opened for bands like Van Coke Kartel, Jack Parow, Valiant Swart, Fokofpolisiekar and a whole list of other bands. And I can see why; him and his band are seriously good, passionate musicians. Well done guys! I will see you at your next gig.

Visit Frank's page here: http://www.facebook.com/frankfreemanza?directed_target_id=0

Photographer Belia Oh showcased the work of the first 9 months of her career, Dec 2011 - Aug 2012. In a world where photos are uploaded on the internet by the millions every day, it is not easy for a photographer to make a name for him- or herself. Luckily for Belia her work is incredible, capturing close detail of live musical acts. She's got a collection of beautiful, captured moments in local music history, from Black Cat Bones to Mean Black Mamba.

Visit Belia Oh's page here for more information: http://www.facebook.com/beliaohphotography?fref=ts

Thanks for the evening guys and I look forward to your next event!  

Contact me: eliinthecity@gmail.com