Zebra & Giraffe started out as the solo project of Greg Carlin, who formed a live band after his debut album in 2008. This release, titled ‘Collected Memories’ received attention from the likes of MTV and saw them playing at the MTV Africa Music Awards in (2009), as well as later winning the MTV Award in the Best Alternative category.In the last year, Z&G’s profile in South Africa has grown exponentially, affording them the opportunity to travel to LA to play at the Muse Expo earlier this year and last month they celebrated their 4th Anniversary gig at Oppikoppi.
How was it when you first formed the band in the wake of Greg Carlin’s solo success ?
It was really nerve-racking to walk out on stage at our first ever gig at Oppikoppi 2008 and to perform to thousands of people, but I think perhaps SA was looking for an act of Z&G’s nature at the time.There was a lot of publicity that went into the build up of Greg’s solo release ‘Collected Memories’ and that meant there was a lot of hype for a band that didn’t really exist yet. Most of us hardly knew each other prior to our first rehearsal, but we have since become great friends. Our first album together as a band ‘The Inside’ (released 2010) was very well received and is something that we are most proud of to date.
What is it like entering the international music scene?
It is very intimidating and difficult! The standard overseas is much higher, and things are done very differently. It’s like starting out right at the bottom again – the only way to compete is to explore and learn about these new territories.
In what way does it differ to our local music scene?
The South African industry is slowly becoming a micro-international industry that has managers/entertainment lawyers/A&R reps/powerful indie labels/booking agents etc and we are learning every day from the international scene. The standard overseas is still higher, but compared to 10 years ago the gap is definitely closing.
What is your advice to aspiring musicians?
They need to be 100% dedicated to making it work- it doesn’t come to those who don’t seriously want it. The industry is changing drastically, however by being managed correctly and running a good business side of the band, you definitely have a chance.
Would you describe your music as ‘commercial’?
The lines are so blurred between ‘commercial’ and ‘authentic’ and I don’t believe in any clear divide what so ever. At the end of the day, well-written music trumps everything, whether it is ‘organic’ ‘authentic’ ‘commercial’ ‘underground’ or any other crazy description people can come up with.
Zebra and Giraffe are planning on recording an EP in the next few months and will be touring South Africa extensively throughout the summer. They also have plans to explore overseas territories in 2012.
For more Info go to www.zebraandgiraffe.co.za
They will also be performing at Culture Clash 24 September JHB, To win VIP tickets Click Here
INTERVIEW: Rachel Briant
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