Collaboration is where I learn important lessons about what is arguably one of the most salient questions facing us: how to work with diverse people while striving towards a common goal, with little to no financial incentive, and have a ton of fun while doing it.
Client: She Kings
Notes: I was super happy to get the opportunity to record this band. Modern recording usually involves ‘tracking’, which means recording each instrument (and vocal) one track at a time to make sure that each part is perfect, but this often comes at the expense of the magic that happens when a great band is vibing off of each other in the same room at the same time. The She Kings opted to rather record live to keep the shared energy authentic and transcendent. This was an unfamiliar (but welcome) challenge for me because while I believe in the power of live music, my inner control freak gets uncomfortable on such wild and imperfect playing fields. Fortunately, the band proved more than up to the task, I kept my head, and we were rewarded amply by the results. As an added bonus, using the best cinematographic tools I had available to me (phones basically), I managed to capture the video footage of the performance as well.
Client: Shameless Band SA
Notes: If you haven’t heard of Shameless Band SA, shame on you! They are a rising talent on the South African punk scene, hailing from Soweto, their recording references were unique to say the least. Citing bands ranging from System of a Down and At the Drive In to Stimela and Phuzekhemisi, clearly a particular sensitivity would be needed. Shout out to director Blood Trauma (Juniper Hammond) for directions on Impicabadala.
Client: : The Means
Notes: We decided that in re-working this old standard (Mac the Knife), recording appropriate relevant found objects (knives, coins, plastic bags) in the production, along with a cheeky ukulele and punky bassline would provide all of the grit and vibe.Featuring the fantastic Loandi Boersma on vocals.
Client: : Lethu Afrika
Notes: Another re-work of a classic song, drawing parallels between Bobby Fuller’s ‘I Fought the Law’ and the Marikana massacre, but translating the lyrics into isiZulu - it was released on the anniversary of the massacre as one of the many voices drawing attention to the lingering, unresolved issues simmering under the surface of one of South Africa’s great tragedies. With Monde Ndlubini (of the golden voice) on vocals.
