Die Ware Verhaal (The True Story)

By Marley

Just as we recovered from our hangovers from Die Heuwels Fantasties show that Blue Moon Nelspruit hosted, they didn’t let the grass grow beneath our feet before they announced the next show will be in less than a week and a bit; Van Coke Kartel and Bittereinder with local acts Voetstoots and Friday is Forgotten on 11 May 2013 at Blue Moon itself.

Van Coke Kartel

Warm Feeling

By Marley

In between Innibos and the By Die Maan 2012 I’ve managed to get an interview with one of the coolest guys I know. He recently relocated from Nelsparta down to the Mother City and can jam a mean guitar solo.

I met Dylan Bolton officially at Blue Moon a few years ago but I remember clearly how his band use to band practise next door to our house way back when. I also remember a few wild parties at Blue Moon with the band we know as No One’s Arc. And if you have been following the blog you will know that this is my favourite South African band if not the world.

They have come a long way, had shared the stage with guys like Seether, The Kongos, Ali Campbell (of UB40), aKING, Fokofpolisiekar, Jack Parow, Die Tuindwergies, Tidal Waves, Karen Zoid, The Black Cat Bones and many more. Played at festivals like Up The Creek, RAKA, Avontoer, Innibos, By Die Maan and Picnic in the Garden series.

Dylan aka Deez Nuts (don’t ask) is well known for his drumming and guitar skills and let me not get into his song writing which is just freaking awesome. Friendly fellow who enjoys his coffee as much as I do and you can be certain to have good time with him no matter where. One of my favourite Up The Creek 2012 moments came from Deez and I’m greatly honoured to share with you all our little virtual chat. We would have preferred it over an ice cold vodka and coke for him and a glass of red for me but these days you just have to imagine it while sitting behind your PC screen.

I know the band was formed when more or less when you guys were still in school (you, Lee, Goose and Robby) did you guys just decided “Hey let’s start a band!” or was a process over time?

Dylan Bolton (DB): It actually started with Robby pitching up at my place with his drum kit... at the time I was a drummer for a metal band. So we set up both drum kits and proceeded to make a shit load of noise. This obviously didn’t work and seeing as though I was the only one between us that could play the guitar, I sacrificed the drum kit for the guitar and “presto” a band in the making. 

That’s one way to put it but it’s the first time I hear of you jamming in a metal band! The unsolved mystery that I can’t seem to crack is where does the name ‘No One’s Arc’ come from? I honestly don’t know or seem to remember… (Or looking in the right places)

DB: ...from the start of the band I have made it clear that there is no real front man. We are about the music and not an individual: like a country without a president or a ship without a captain... or an Ark without Noah... therefore NO ONE’S ARC (Spelling “Arc” was just to be different)

Robby and Dylan at Stilbaai, Avontoer 2011 - photo courtesy of AJ van Niekerk

The band started over 10 years ago. I remember you use to drum for 10c Short and in between the lead vocalist/guitarist for No One’s Arc. Both bands entered the same battle of the bands and 10c Short won that time – how did you manage to keep your head together during that time?

DB: Wow that was a long time ago. It was very hectic back then – I was also playing lead guitar for the Dave Michaels band at the time. 10c Short was an amazing experience and I loved being the drummer and not having much responsibility. Being the lead vocalist is way more stressful but also a shit load more rewarding to me.  To answer your question, NOA and 10c Short were all close friends and supported each other like brothers. I was doing what I loved and that made it all easy. 

Yea I know you guys are still supportive of each other which are awesome, no boundaries. What inspired you to play lead guitar instead of drums?

DB: I started playing both instruments pretty much at the same time – so the love was evenly spread, I still miss being behind the kit.  Guitar it a lot more expressive though and I love making the strings scream

I got the mental picture in my mind of you playing U.F.O with that answer. You have travelled the country full, all those hours spent on the road between our hometown and the Cape. Is there any specific place you love to stop at for a quick hacky game or smoke break?

DB: There’s a mountain range between the Kalahari Desert and Oudtshoorn... freaken beautiful spot. But anywhere is good for a quick game of hacky sack. 

I think it’s the Swartberg Pass, indeed a beautiful spot. Drove through it on our way to UTC2011 and yes hacky can be played where ever. Out of all the festivals that you have played (and it’s been a few) do you have a favourite?

DB: There are a few favourites: STRAB, Splashy Fen, Synergy, RAKA... but my #1 has to be Up The Creek.

I was at two Up The Creek’s with you, some of my best memories comes from there. I love that vibe, it’s so chilled out with a Titanic in hand, hanging out with a lilo (or the lost Moon Arc) on the river, getting no sleep and of course the best damn music in the country. Do you have something that stands out from UTC that separates it from the rest?

DB: I think it’s the people that make the festival, not just the venue. UTC is in the middle of nowhere so you know that the people that have travelled all the way to the fest are true music fans. The venue is odd but still seems to work perfectly, the vibe of UTC is amazing and intermit.  

2010 was a big year for the band, you played at the FIFA World Cup FanPark opening, and the album was launch along with the video “Fire” (which did amazingly on MK). Do you think that was the break through NOA needed at the time? I do because suddenly everyone had your name on their lips; people were asking when the next show will be etc.

DB: I think that was a very small piece of a massive puzzle but a very substantial piece.  

In 2011 the biggest thing to happen to a Nelsparta band that has never happened before, you guys were invited to play on Live (5) on one of SA biggest radio stations, 5FM, how was that experience for you?

DB: It was crazy, live national radio is a scary thing but once we started jamming all the nerves disappeared. The fact that we are the first NST band to do this is an honour because there is a shit load of amazing talent in NST. All they have to do is stick to their guns... and GET the locals to support!!

No One's Arc at 5FM studios

AMEN! I’m all on about how the lack of local support is causing Nelsparta (and the surrounding areas) loosing either great venues or great talent. I was in that 5FM studios with you and you all did great!  And playing at the Mbombela Stadium for the Ali Campbell concert on 16 December 2011, that was some craze party! But the biggest came with 5 000 people at Kristenbosch Gardens on New Year’s – what is your memory of that gig?

DB: That was a mind FUCK! At one point of our set they switched the lights off to reveal a sea of 5’000 glow in the dark wrist bands waving to the beat... it literally took my breath away. 

Goose bumps! Last year the band second video “UFO” was released, what an excellent video! Catch That Rabbit took the energy that you guys have and moulded it into that video. Obviously you are not a big follower of UFO’s and aliens but where did that song come from? What was the inspiration behind it?

DB: I wrote the song years ago after one of those deep, intoxicated discussions with a friend about conspiracies / illuminate. I believe that we all believe in too many things... if that makes any sense. 

Backstage at Langebaan on Avontoer 2011 - photo courtesy of Milla Koskela

  

For me it does... Now you have moved to Cape Town in March and two of the boys have joined you now over the course of June/July, how has it been so far? A lot different to Nelsparta and probably a lot more gig opportunity for NOA, will you re-join the seerowers this year for Avontoer?

DB: The Cape is beautiful and filled with amazing, creative people but so cool as it is and my heart will always be in NST. I don’t think they have even started booking the bands for Avontoer yet but we will definitely be bribing the DBK team over a few glasses of wine. 

I’m sure the DPK guys won’t mind some wine at all. I have to ask, what does Blue Moon mean to you as Dylan?

DB: Blue Moon is the only thing that is keeping Nelspruit on the map when it comes to National live acts. We still get bands across the country asking us to help get them a gig at Blue Moon. Locals just need to learn to go out and enjoy the live music! Blue Moon was where it all started for NOA and I don’t think we’d still be around if we didn’t have this venue in our back yard.  

Bands and other performing artists even managers asks me on regular bases as well and yet it comes down to locals who needs to support local venues. Is there a venue you always dream about playing at?

DB: I don’t day dream about playing at a specific venue... I dream of playing to a crowd that sings so loud to my songs that I can only stand back and point the mic at them.

Ah man AWE! I can see that happening very soon in the future. If you could buy any guitar, which one would you buy?

DB: I wouldn't buy another guitar... that would be like cheating on my Fender Telecaster Deluxe. 

Muso’s always needs some kind of endorsement or sponsorship, what do you need the most as a musician? (Besides an endless tab at the bar and bottomless case of guitar strings)

DB: A bus with a built in bar and that endless tab you mentioned. 

Hehehe I volunteer as the bar tender! Obviously you guys will properly want to travel aboard with your music, which countries would you like to tour through and why?

DB: UK – some of the best music has come from there, I’d like to experience the scene. The States – just because.

When you sit down and write songs do you like create the music and lyrics then play it to the rest of the band or do they all have some involvement with the song writing?

DB: Song writing is weird, it changes all the time. Sometimes we come up with the basic tune together 

and I go home and fill in all the blanks. Other times I'll bring the song to them and they give me their interpretations. It is never a one side creation, everyone has a say in how the song turns out.

Have to ask this as this it’s a fan question (from Sunè Halderman) – Do you have a favourite NOA song?

DB: I don’t really have a favourite but if I must choose it would be between “UFO” from the older material and “Warm feeling” from the newer stuff.

I love “Warm feeling” no matter where I am and I hear that song I think of the roads leading back to Nelsparta and as the song picks up it’s like you almost in Nellies and picking up speed towards town. Of course I have to ask you do you have a favourite local and/or national band/artist you enjoy watching.

DB: Shit this is a tough one! Mike Stry Trio, My Aching Monotone, Gibraltar...  Jeremy Loops, Tidal Waves, Black Cat Bones, aKing, Mr. Cat and the Jackal, Dan Patlansky... there are hundreds of great bands in SA – I don’t have a favourite but these are a few that rank high on my list of musicians.   

   

Some great answers from a great guy and friend, if you are in the Cape Town area make sure you like the No One's Arc page on Facebook and to see where you can catch them live next. Get your fingers tapping to a free download of “UFO” on their Facebook page, a huge thank you again to Deez for the making the time for the blog.

Till later Spartans!

Against All Odds

By Marley

Lots of excitement and I know that 2012 haven't been the best from us yet in blogging BUT you have to understand that all the odds have been against us for a while (thanks aKING for the cool music - it helps). So without wasting any more time let's jump right into it!

After the sound fuck up from Picnic in the Garden a lot of people was either moaners or lovers of Blue Moon. True fans of all the bands and all the involvement said "So what, we will still support you" so thank you again. BUT! I got a bone to pick with the Lowveld article about the Glaskas gig that was on May 5th

I was approached by the organizer, Natasha Kolbe about two weeks before the gig as she got my number through a friend, cool this bartender services and advice are always for hire. The gig was at Blue Moon and despite her marketing through Facebook and fliers hand outs, the turn out was weak. I can't explain why, maybe it's because Glaskas never pulled head lining crowds in Nelspruit ever before or if it was people way for saying to Blue Moon go screw yourselves but one thing you can't blame was the sound at the venue. When I read the article I was a bit "What?! You didn't even stay for the full Glaskas show which was actually great party when everyone warmed up" and then "Whoa...our sound was poor at the gardens so it was poor at the show? No dear you don't know anything then about live shows"

I feel because Blue Moon has been here for 12 years and I might have studied events management and have been to a crap load of live shows across the country then one thing I can tell you is that what happened at one place doesn't mean will happen at another. In the Glaskas case you had to take in consideration that it was after a long weekend, no school holidays, no money...and lots of other factors and yes one of them was the PC gig. But I feel the journalist didn't really took the time out to really look at it at all sides. I saw them leave right after more or less the beginning of Glaskas show and if they would have stayed I would have gotten them a drink with the band so that they could get to know them. But what done is done, that is just my personal feelings.

However I made new friends in the form of Glaskas and I was wonderfully surprised with them. I always didn't really pay attention to their music when I started working at Blue Moon it was hard enough to know the difference between aKING, Heuwels and Straatligkinders...nou I know that Dans Dans Lisa, Glaskas and Bouwer Bosch all got one thing in common = Straatligkinders. And again I have to thank Deon, Francois and Louis for the great kuier afterwards. I'm now the proud owner of Glaskas on my iPod.

The other big gig was the quarter finals of the Mpower FM Open Mic series at the CMDA in White River, thanks to locals who supported! It was cold outside but some of us braved it while the others was packing the tables full. It was nice to see some true local talent coming out of all the corners of the region, good luck to all of you! The voting for now has closed but next month the next round of Open Mic will happen, dates will be announced in the press soon.

Small gigs have been keeping the locals busy, between quiz nights, auction night at AgterStoep, Open mic at AgterStoep and of course the Sunday Pappas Pizza live music - which has a 3rd singer now Blue Torch. On the 27th of May Jan Blohm graces us with his rock presents at AgterStoep (tickets runs for R 100 p/p) and are for sale at AgterStoep. If you are in STRAB or were one of the lucky ones then please TELL ME ALL ABOUT it, I'm so sad that I couldn't attend this year but as it seems I'm saving up for bigger things to come - what that is you just have to wait and see.

Okay so upcoming gigs that I simply have to blog about is....*drum roll please*

and that's not all

AWE! But there is one more....

Yes By Die Maan will be jammin on 29 June 2012 looks like an amazing line up.

Well that's all folks, will be seeing you all around. Please go "like" our brand new Facebook page, took a while to set up but we got it managed.

Till later...peace!
Twitter | Email

Escape

Yes I'm still alive, just barely mental wise anyway. I do humble apologize for being so damn quite but I do have some reason behind it. Let's start at the traditional and we behind and ahead:

February birthdays were song bird Mimi Gabi Law, my rocker niece Crystal, Tomas of Lowveld Media, Mister Dylan Bolton aka Deez (yes that cool lead singer of NOA)

March it was one of the coolest bassists I know, the Captain, the McGuyver, the legend Lee Nicholls and with him was our little sister Hannah
In April its new mommy Christine and Robby Johns NOA cool drummer.

Yes in between not finding a job after I did find one and got well fucked in the ass to put it lightly its been nearly two months since working permanently, one ding-dong person over here. Anyway it doesn't mean I'm completed hidden away in my cave nope I still flew down for Up The Creek (UTC) and even though I always do tell in full detail the many adventures a trip like that do bring I'm forced to only give you the highlights.

Pretty much I had hardly any sleep leading up to leaving for Cape Town but it was for good reasons. Flying back down to the Cape was fun, I caught up with sleep and I think the air hostess wanted to call the vet on me since I was drooling in my sleep. Landed in Cape Town, kissed the ground and got the best damn coffee I've ever had. After a few hic ups we were all squeezed into a clown car aka Renault and off we went to Swellendam. Of course we got lost in Cape Town but we managed.

Between the rain, mud, fights like siblings and lots of vitamin water we arrived at UTC. Greeted by hugs, known Avontoer sound crew faces and all the beer I could managed we relaxed. Sally and I pitched our tents, opened our sleeping bags and crashed. Screw the mattresses we were beyond tired. The next day the weather was still shit but I had a wonderful time showing first timer Sally around. Got a briefing about the new sponsor, the new drink "Iceberg" and played hacky with MC Miss Daisy Burton and her sister Amy. Friends of Avontoer The December Streets arrived and we did some exploring, later on Mimi, Deez and Lee arrived with the trailer and rock went the weasel. I must say this year usual quite night was super busy and December Streets brought back a lot of memories. All I'm saying about my state that night that I sailed the Titanic and somewhere went overboard, I crawled to my tent.

The next morning a shower was needed but it looked like the whole WP was there already and I was in dying need of vitamin water and breakfast. The whole day was spent recovering from a babelas of hell in between all 4 seasons of the Cape and helping out to the tune "99 Red Balloons". Our bar shift started at 15:00 and I was still shaking like a leaf. I did not see much what was going on the main stage (which was in different spot this year) but I still thank an old UTC client of mine for giving me some "Gummy bear juice" in form of a shot whiskey which helped me a lot to get through the last hour of shift that ended at 21:00. A shower was stolen ek se and a nice potjie meal made by friend Porra of DPK. After which my bottle of wine was opened and it was aKing I watched and enjoyed. Mimi and Deez did a song with Southern Gypsy Queen which was on at 2 AM and after that I went to bed. I was awaken by Mimi and Deez coming to bed (an half hour before sun rise) and my friend Lee informed me he had broken his own record of drinking Titanic's - yes 15 of them. Not much sleep either in as we had to be up at 8 AM

So between working the river bar, running back stage, going for a swims, bumping my head more than twice, drinking Titanic and Iceberg in liters and of course hanging out with your friends UTC was awesome. Staying the Sunday still and only leaving the Monday was also great. And spending the day in Cape Town with our own tour guide, Werner was awesome.

I would love to spend more time in Cape Town and as you all know by now No One's Arc are relocating there and from June the gang will be down there. Yes me as their "band aid" do miss their live shows and them of course. Their last dance gig in March was a great day. Had lots of fun, good after party and the hang over yes it was there.

The live shows around have been quite but in April Blue Moon kicks off the season with another Picnic in the garden with legends Prime Circle and Idol dude Elvis Blue. Pre sales available at www.ticketmaster.co.za family deals as well - R120 p/@ pre sale, R140 p/p at the gate. Yes at Nelspruit Botanical Gardens, bring your picnic basket and we will have a cash bar again. Excellent for the family again and Prime Circle haven't been here in 2 years so its pretty sweet.

A bit later in May there is a show at Blue Moon that is Glaskas, Dans Lisa and Bouwer Basson (of so iemand) but check out Blue Moon page for that info and staying on the moon I heard little rumors already for our ByDieMaan line up. Yes while all the sheep at Innibos chokes on the dust we will have a full on rock line up for you. I tell you its going to be sweet.

Just some other band news, sad to hear The Post Colonial Paperweights have split ways after a few differences, Justin Swart has said he will be touring soon. Also that Sol and Faantie are eager to do big things again which is good news and rocker (and new dad) Ewald has moved with his family to Sabie. He is still around doing his shows in and around here so have no fear.

I do have lots to say but my fingers are numb and I'm sure I've caught you all up on the doings of this music fan. Check out the Mpower FM open mic series in the new month, also the band Kongos new music video "Escape" and if you guys living in Cape Town and you do bump into Deez buy him a double vodka and coke and tell him he is awesome.

Just a last thanks to Lowveld Media, you girls and guys work hard and party even harder than most rockers I know. Thanks for the support in local acts, taking endless amounts of photos, writing stories and in general doing your best. Please don't stop now.

Peace and love

Alone in the sunshine...

…Asking 20 questions as always that's me. The title comes from a muso most of us might have heard of even met around here in the Lowveld. If you were at the STRAB weekend at Blue Moon in October you would have seen him on stage with a guitar...in his lap. Notice in and not on his lap, why you ask well he plays lap side guitar, the Ben Harper way. To be honest here when I heard of Ben Harper, I couldn’t help thinking of the comedy series "My Family". I had to Google to find out that Ben Harper is a better cool guy, great music and funny enough I have been to parties in recent months that have played a few of his tunes.

But this is not Ben Harper I spoke to with a setting sun on the Blue Moon mountain, no this is Justin Swart, the lead singer and song writer for the new and upcoming band, The Post Conical Paperweights and solo artist. Justin (born on 8 December 1981) is not born local but from Cape Town, grew up in Durbanville which is neighbours of Bellville where famous rockers like Franscios van Coke (Fokoffpolisiekar/Van Coke Kartel), Jax Panik (yes believe it) and Jack Parow grew up. He told me that he was in school with Andrew Davenport from the band aKing "He was a real nerd, you can write that" Justin told me with a smile.

Started from a young age with both his grand father and father being musicians Justin was influenced by their music from a very young age. If you ever meet Justin you won't think that this man will write such powerful lyrics but at last I've spoken with serval people who enjoy his song writing as much as I do. He lists as his inspiration from bands like Ben Harper, The Dave Matthews Band and The Counting Crows.

On his website you can listen to some of his previous release songs like "Forgive me" and "Alone in the sunshine". 2009 saw the album "Brighter than the sun" and in 2010 "Under the willows of Babylon" both available to buy over his website. The new EP "Beautiful Day" will be release I'm told under the Post Colonial Paperweights. In August to raise awareness of the increasing of SA rhino's being poached, Justin Swart donated part of the sales on downloads from his website to the save the rhino project.

A rocker with love for the environment, bless his heart

Small Town Music: From reading on your website both your father and grandfather were and still are musicians. At what age did you start?

Justin Swart: Around the age of 6/7, my grandfather was the one who showed me a few chords on guitar but that was just playing around. From Std. 2 (Grade 4 in today terms - Ed) the whole Nirvana grunge scene came in with "Smells like the teen spirit" from there I got more serious about playing guitar. Practise makes perfect as they say.

STM: Yes Kurt and the boys are still legends to us teenagers of the 90's. What is the first song you ever played through?

JS: Another lonely day - Ben Harper

STM: Did your father music played an influence on yours?

JS: A lot, my dad played Eric Clapton to me when I was little. He is my hero but it has taken a lot of time and talent from him as well. He gave up his professional music career for me and if it wasn't for him I won't be sitting here with you answering these questions

Justin performing at STRAB Blue Moon weekend
October 2011

STM: Shortly tell me about lap side guitar. I was fascinated when I saw you live in December 2010 at Barnyard with your guitar in your lap. It looks kind of difficult

JS: It's not difficult at all it just the law of the music. Ben Harper was a big influence since it's his chief instrument. Once again its practise makes perfect but no it's not complicated at all to play.

STM: When did you relocated to Barberton and why? Cape Town is such a beautiful city

JS: I moved to Barberton a few years ago because of a "Girl" to be quite honest. However, I have remained here because this (the Lowveld) is a beautiful place to live. Yes, Cape Town is a beautiful place and will always be my hometown, but I don't really feel the pain of not living there anymore too much because I still get to spend a lot of time there.

STM: You live and work in Barberton, what do you as a day time job? I remember you said something about your own studio

JS: Yes, I do live in Barberton, I own a studio called One Impilo (meaning one life) that does recording, mixing and mastering. I do also have other business interests.

Smook on lead with Justin in the background
October 2011

STM: What do you think of the Lowveld music scene?

JS:  It such an awesome place this area, I really love it here. Nelspruit got such abundance of talent; they need the locals to support them more.

STM: I agree with you there, move on from being one track minded. Do you have a favourite performing band or artist that you have seen on stage that is from the Lowveld?

JS: No One's Arc are a great performing band, I met them actully not in Nelspruit but on tour around 2008/2009 in Pretoria I think. I've also seen Voetstoots, Ewald of My Aching Monotone back then he was still with NoCane & Smook. But I still go back to No One's Arc they keep on going, they a great band for me.

STM: Tell me more about The Postcolonial Paperweights, How were they assembled and what is the energy between you all.

JS: Well firstly the name comes from (Ettiene) Smook; I felt they deserved more than my name you know to perform under 'Justin Swart' so that is our band name. The band consists of Smook on guitar, Faantie Martiz on bass, and Ettiene Uys on drums and me.

STM: After a hectic tour what is the first thing you do when you get home?

JS: The first thing I do is sit down with my daughter Millah! I love that child! She is my connection back to what really matters, and why I do what I do!

STM: What are your favourite and your least favourite thing about touring?

JS: Favourite: is certainly being on stage and performing for the people that have come out to see us, and secondly, the adventures with the boys! There is never a dull moment!

Least favourite: Fast food!

STM: Hahaha, yes I agree those boys are quite something. This being the Lowveld can you name your favourite places to hang out whenever it’s having a Sunday breakfast or a beer with some friends that makes you love this place?

JS: My favourite place to hang here is certainly my home! As is the case for most people that live here! Which is in my opinion why the locals don't really support local acts in any kind of mass when they perform, because they would rather be at home! Which I can understand! The sad thing though is that there is such a wealth of talent here, but a reasonably small future for them locally. Otherwise, I like to hang at Casterbridge!

STM: Where can events managers and other organisers get a hold of the Postcolonial Paperweights?

JS: They can e-mail us on management@justinswart.com since we manage ourselves

STM: All lead singers are the lookers and catch the ladies eyes, are you available?

JS: (Smiles) No not available, sorry girls

STM: Where can people find out more about upcoming gigs and more info on you?

JS: On Facebook under Justin Swart or MySpace

Faantie Maritz, Ettiene Uys, Ettiene Smook, STM & Justin Swart
Blue Moon October 2011

I really want to thank Justin again for sitting down with me over a whisky (well he had whisky I had R&R) an hour before his show. He is really cool guy so if you ever at a gig take some time out and speak to him. He can follow him on Twitter & Faantie is on there as well. Make sure you like his page to get the latest updates on their upcoming tour in December.

While I am on the subject of the lack of support for our national acts in this town, Freshly Ground are currently on their 10 years in the industry tour and Nelspruit was obvious one of the choices to come play at since they have always received posetive feed back from fans. Not this time however Hilltop Live productions had cancelled the show that was supposed to be on 10 November due to a lack of tickets sales. I'm dissapointed Nelspartans, money is tight but is this how you want to treat internationals in the making artits? Didn't think so

So as a friendly reminder that the twins of Locnville will be performing at Blue Moon on the 26th of November! You can go to the Moon website and check out the details, click to like the page from there and follow them on Twitter. I want to see Nelsparta party like there is no tomorrow on the rock!

Also thank you again for the compliments on the blog and the interviews, please I value you the reader input and if you have any suggestions or want any me to ask any of our local artists some questions please don't hesitate to give me a shout over Twitter or email or Facebook!

Peace and love!

Red House

My favourite song from Jimi Hendrix and a great theme to this weekend at Blue Moon! Boom! Yea since most of you only read at about STRAB (go a few posts back) and some were knows what a party vibe it is there so the organizers of STRAB thought “Hey, lets go to Blue Moon and bring everyone there and we party till the mountain cracks”

If you are still in the mood for a party this weekend (despite the Bokke being out of the RWC the final will be broadcast) then you can get your tickets at Look & Listen in Riverside Mall, R 250 for a full weekend or R 100 for Friday and R 200 on Saturday, either of the 3 ticket prices includes camping! Brilliant! If you do want to camp just bring a gazebo with as there isn’t so much trees like at the original STRAB in Mozambique and also bring yourself some water to spare your legs from walking up and down and of course your food! Sucks we will be selling food there but you gonna get hungry! And from the sounds of it, it seems Pete has imported some Moz tradition in form of an R&R or two…only time will tell what the man has come up with.

Before I go on any further happy belated birthday to Stefan Retief of Voetstoots! Hope it was legend dude! See you at Blue Moon!

A few posts ago I announced that I will start interviewing a muso or two from our humble little kingdom of Nelsparta. My first muso is someone is not only a good friend but a sweetheart, got the voice of an angle and she is only turning 22. Most of you might have met her, like her page on Facebook or bought a CD or seen the new "UFO" video, ladies and gents I’m talking about Mimi Gabi Law of No One’s Arc. I had the pleasure of her company for an afternoon in form of a sneaky session between family and work duties to ask her the burning 20 questions I had.

Born on 1^st of February 1990 in Nelspruit (like most of us) and raised in Lekazi and at the age of 10 the family moved to the Nelspruit town. She matriculated at Lowveld High School in 2009 where she met the boys of No One’s Arc. Currently studying in Pretoria she always finds time to come back home, not only for performances but to spend time with family and friends. 

No One's Arc: Dylan, Bongani, Goophstar, Robby, Lee & Mimi

STM: Where did all start (the singing)?

Mimi: It probably started when my mom was still pregnant with me, she went to choir performances, music festivals and she calls me “the magic baby” as she didn’t know she was pregnant at the time. Singing came  naturally then to me, the first time I performed was in front of family and friends at our home when I was 7 years old. I sang in the church choir too

STM: How did you get involved with No One’s Arc? I know Bongs had something to do with it

Mimi: (laughs) Bongs introduce me to the band when I was in Grade 9/10, I was taking trombone lessons from Bongs and he invited me to one of their shows. I knew Goophy as well and remember Robby from school. We were back stage and the boys asked if I can sing as well to playing the trombone. I said ‘Of course I can’ and did a little bit of a song, I went to 2 band practises on the Monday & Tuesday after that show and the Saturday we were in studio to record “A Shot In The Dark” *

*Shot In The Dark was No One’s Arc first attempt at a 'proper' CD, it’s out there somewhere

STM: And the rest is rock and roll history?

Mimi: Damn straight!

STM: In a few words can you describe a band practise with NOA?

Mimi: It’s all good, it’s a stress reliever, to come to the bands room and relax from a hectic day. Times flies when we do have practise together because I live in Pretoria I don’t always get to practise with the boys but when I’m here I love it.

STM: What is it like to share the stage/van with 6 boys?

Mimi: The stage, it is interesting, we just have the energy together on stage. Because I’m the only girl on stage I feel sexy, I dance with Lee and then flirt with Dylan I love it.

The van is fun because we spend a lot of the time on the road we talk a lot. We learn a lot from each other, every time there is something new we learn. And it also helps because if we every placed in certain situations we will know how that person will react. The boys say I talk too much

STM: What is your least favourite thing about touring?

Mimi: Being on the road, the heat and it gets annoying but when we get to our destination it is worth it. And sleep my own bed, a comfortable bed we do sometimes sleep in a comfortable bed but still my own bed and my teddy bears

STM: Where do all the nick names for the band members come from? I know Bongs is short for Bongani, I know you got one as well and the manager, Werner.

Mimi: Well it comes mostly from our names Goophy, Momo. Robby is Robert, Bongs is Bongani, Deez is Dylan, Millicent is Mimi (giggles), I forgot Lee full names but it is one name so we call him Lee. Goophy was named by Mr. Leach from high school he said that he looked goofy so he called him "Hey Goophy boy" and the name stuck. Werner, he is part of our band, he is Meneer Botha so the guys just call him MB

STM: How does it feel to see yourself in your music videos, fan recordings of live shows and TV shows?

Mimi: I don't like to watch myself in the videos. I’m shocked sometimes it takes time to sink in. I feel happy, successful and proud of the band and  accomplishment when I do see it like the new ‘UFO’ video. I was worried the fans weren’t going to recognize me with my new hair style because I always have my dreads but the fans love it so I’m happy.

Blue Moon, March 2011

STM: Can you name any groupies or big fans (myself excluded hahaha) of No One’s Arc?

Mimi: Cerys, Minette, Christine, Phindile in Pretoria, Thandi in Cape Town, Adriaan, Michael, Milla but she is Dylan girlfriend so she is more like part of the band

STM: What is your favourite thing about fans?

Mimi: It feels good when they tell you how much they appreciated the music and shows. Having a drink and to have a chat to get to know them better, the regular faces at our shows, it is always great. I love our fans

STM: And we love you Mimi. I know you answered once that you guys love the crowd response to songs when asked what you like about live performing, it there is a specific song or songs you can see the crowd love?

Mimi: Oh definitely ‘Stanley’ and‘Fire’ because those are our jumping songs. I think ‘Fire’ is more popular because it showed on MK last year. Fans is also loving our new song ‘Paved in gold’ which we have been playing more often at shows

STM: Oh its one of my new favourites. Did you know that “Rock Show” is the A-Team of Blue Moon theme song?

Mimi: No I didn’t but I can understand why, you guys work at the rock show (Laughs)

STM: Awe! Besides No One’s Arc I know you love jazz music, which is your favourite artists/band/group to listen to?

Mimi: Lira all the way, I love her music

STM: Out of all the SA music out there, which are your Top 3 favourite bands or your Top 3 favourite songs?

Mimi: "Kia Ora" by The Tidal Waves; "Sy Sê" by Die Tuindwergies; "Angel Wings" by The Southern Gypsy Queens*

SGQ and Tidal Waves will be performing at this STRAB weekend

STM: Can you name any local artists/bands from the Nelsparta aera and have you seen live?

Mimi: Voetstoots, Black Chain (old jazz vibe), Latte Funk, NoCane, we had most of the local bands performing at our CD launch last year which was amazing.

STM: Where would like to see your music go? For instance to the USA giant market or would like to stay in good ol’ South Africa?

Mimi: We want to hit the world and the planets around it!

STM: LOL you go girl! Coming home from Pretoria is always a busy time for you but you always manage to see your family and close friends, how do you find time to balance it all?

Mimi: I see family during the day and we go to church together. At night I have a drink or two with my friends at Jock or O’Hagan’s or a gig like BLUE MOON!

STM: You guys have done a lot of travelling, Mozambique, Cape Town, Stellenbosch do you have a favourite?

Mimi: Bohemian in Stellies because of the quaintly of crowd, it is the same no matter the time of year because of it’s a student town. Mozambique (STRAB) is fun - sun, sea, surf - and those R&R's. Arcade Empire in Pretoria is hot, we did 3 shows there this year alone and it’s where we had our party for our UFO video launch day last weekend. And of course there is no place like home, Blue Moon gigs. Blue Moon are the best venue in South Africa, it is always awesome being there

STM: What does your fiance think of you singing and being on tour most of the time?

Mimi: He is fine with it, communication is key never less he supports me and likes our vibe. Whenever he can he comes to our gigs, jumps up and down and he takes photos. He is cool with everything

STM: When do are you two planning to get married?

Mimi: In about 5 year’s time

STM: When can we expect a new CD from No One’s Arc?

Mimi: We are planning on it, soon hopefully

STM: Where can people catch you live besides this weekend at Blue Moon?

Mimi: Best is to like our page on Facebook and get invites to our upcoming gigs and also get to listen to some our tracks. 

They are confirmed as one of the supporting acts for UB40 show on the 17 December at Mbombela Stadium!!

STM: Cool stuff, where can we get a hold of you?

Mimi: On Facebook or you can follow me on Twitter (@Mimi_Gabi_Law) or the band (@Noonesarc)

I want to thank Mimi for sticking it with me for this interview; I hope that you the reader got to know her a little better and what is going on in the inner circle of the popular No One's Arc. If you have any questions or any suggestions to any muso or band you think I should interview please drop me a line on themusicfan@webmail.co.za or a tweet @STMFan.

I also want to thank Goophstar for the kind words on my SA_Rockdoll Tweet feedline this week. As long as you are making awesome music I will continue to support it, blogging it and shouting it out to the world!!! 

Of course I will be posting a blog next week about this weekend craze party! Nice sun shine weather, cold beer and good tunes sounds like heaven to me!

Peace & Love

Eye Shadow

By Marley

Last week Sunday I went to Umbali to watch Valiant Swart, my mother joined me in the fun and games and it rained! Sorry it's my fault my mom never goes to rock shows so mother nature decide to bless us all. At the last minute apparently Mr. Loots pulled out of the show and instead Havana was on the bill. The Michael Strydom Trip was on next and huge respect for them! Michael is really a great singer and even better guitar player. Then Voetstoots was up next.