The wisdom of Zebra & Giraffe

Zebra & Giraffe

Valencia Govindasamy

‘THE Wisest Ones’ – this is the title of the latest album by the alternative rock band Zebra & Giraffe (Z&G), who are back to wow audiences again with their diverse music. And they will be doing just that by dedicating this month to their fans as they travel across SA for their album tour.

Tonight caught up with Z&G before they officially kicked off their tour to get the lowdown on their new album.

“Z&G started off as an electro-rock act. Our latest album is a lot more guitar-driven, with fewer keyboards and electronic instruments, so right now I guess we’re an alternative rock band. I think, lyrically and musically, it represents the space I was in just before turning 30. I was battling with a lot of different emotions and looking back at my twenties and analysing the journey. I really feel it’s the most honest and raw record from Z&G – it’s my favourite by far,” says vocalist Greg Carlin.

From Joburg, Pretoria and PE to Durban, Cape Town and Bloemfontein, there is no one in SA who will be able to say they missed the opportunity to see this extraordinary band perform their latest work.

So how is this album different from the band’s previous stuff? According to Carlin, it’s a lot darker and heavier, musically: “We also wrote the album as a three-piece band this time around (as our drummer and bassist left the band late last year), so that affected the sound quite a lot. We focused more on the guitars and vocals, rather than layering lots of keyboards. Lyrically, it’s a lot more mature – I felt more comfortable writing lyrics this time around, even though they’re more honest.”

Z&G have established themselves as a unique act in SA considering the large number of bands that are out there.

Asked what sets them apart from other groups, Carlin says: “It’s hard to be unique these days – most of the time, if you’re trying too hard at that, it comes off as contrived. We focus on writing the best songs we can and enjoying the journey we’re on. I think we have carved a niche for ourselves in the SA market.”

The Sama-winning group have a lot to be grateful for in their career. From supporting the Killers when they toured SA a few years back (as well as playing alongside other huge international acts) to playing at The Mama’s in Kenya (and winning Best Alternative there), Z&G say they are really proud to have made a career out of their music: “We have released three studio albums, toured SA and played overseas, had 14 songs playlisted on national radio… a few years ago, that all seemed out of reach.”

The band is explosive and dynamic on stage. Their music is constantly transforming and growing with each album, offering something different to their fans. They are undoubtedly highly talented and have made their mark on the SA music industry.

Speaking about the tour, Carlin said: “We’re super-excited to play a full show again, so we’re going to make sure we rock out!”

Z&G perform in various cities across SA this month. Tonight they will play at Memphis Rock, 12 Esselen Street, Die Bult, Potchefstroom. Their next gig is in Durban at Live – The Venue on Friday. On Saturday, they go to Bloemfontein to play at Die Mystic Boer. They will also play in Pretoria, Joburg, Grahamstown, PE, East London and Cape Town. For more info, call Liny at 082 464 1926, or visit: www.zebraandgiraffe.co.za