Exclusive Interview: Man As Machine

One of South Africa’s most impressive new acts, Man As Machine, kindly answered some of MusicReview’s questions.

Photo by Ryan Jarret

Man As Machine, thank you for taking the time out to talk to us. You are a relatively new band, tell us a bit more about yourselves. Where are you from, how did you get together and what does your music sound like?

Howdy. We’re from the greater Johannesburg/Pretoria area. As for getting together, it just happened really. Our sound: Loud. We play rock, we play roll. Sometimes when we’re bored, we roll rocks… Good times.

We saw you guys live at Seasons Wither 4 and were totally blown away by your electric performance. Do you put a lot of work into your live performance, or does it come naturally to you?

Thanks, it was a mad cool show. We’re stoked with the response the crowd gave us. With regards to performance, our band room is smaller than most microwaves, so practicing performance is an onstage activity. However, all of us have previous experience playing in bands with high-energy shows, so it kind of works out spontaneously.

Frankly, with the way you guys tore up the stage, I don’t believe you on your band room… Who are your influences?

…the rants of Norden Hartman.

To answer that question would probably take up a 2-page spread. But to name a few: He Is Legend, Rage Against The Machine, Sevendust, Incubus, Guns & Roses, Maylene & The Sons Of Disaster, the list goes on and on…

We have listened to your EP extensively, and really like what we hear. Is this EP available for purchase or download?

(Rob shakes his magic 8-ball… Waits for reply…) …”Try Again Later”

Unfortunately not. We like to keep our fans on tenterhooks.

Who are your favourite South African bands, and who would you like to jam with?

We really enjoy watching Voodoo Child, Isochronous, Taxi Violence, The Narrow, Pestroy, New Academics, there are so many. To play with… Well, any band that is passionate, has good songs, great to watch, and nice to work with. Xavier would really like to play with Boo!

Recently, with the growth of the South African alternative music industry, we have noticed a serious lack of playable venues in the Greater Johannesburg region. Do you guys find this a problem when booking gigs? What is your favourite venue to play at?

We’ve noticed the small choice in venues, but this hasn’t really affected us that heavily. The way we see it, any show at any venue has the potential to be great gig depending on the organisation.

True that. How important is Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms in the Man As Machine marketing plan?

We mainly use Facebook to interact with our fans, but not nearly enough as we should. However, KJ is currently training a ninja to … um… motivate people to get to our shows.

Haha! Sounds interesting… We’ve heard a rumour that you are heading to the studio imminently to record a full-length album. Is this true? If so, will it fall under any label or are you going indie?

Yes, actually we are currently window-shopping for studios and a “pro-juicer” to work with. The album will probably be independently released, and we’re hoping to do so early next year.

You better keep us updated on your progress! In the band, who knows the most girls?

Quantity or quality? Haha! Probably Xavier…

Do you have any upcoming gigs or tours that you would like to tell us about?

Joburg Burning 4 at the end of August is on the cards. Check the Facebook page and group for more shows and details.

Man As Machine, thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Where can our readers find out more about you?

No problem guys, it’s been fun! You can find out more on Facebook and at our shows. We have all the time in the world for anyone who enjoys our music. Much love.

- Bret Dugmore
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