After spending the better part of the last two years song-writing and developing the new album, Plush finally launched the long awaited, self-titled fourth album last month. Welcomed back to bursting venues, the band set off on a tour of South Africa in support of the launch.
This time around, Plush set out to create an album that would not only be personal and warm, but that would also have big “sing-along songs with driving grooves” and would represent the growth of the band as individuals and as a collective. The collaboration with SAMA winning producer, Brian O’Shea and VUKA award winning sound engineer, Sean Gunns, proved a success as the band spent months in pre-production followed by an intense few weeks in a house in St. James recording the final product.
With the new album ready, Plush set off on a nation-wide tour which proved to be a surreal two weeks they could only have hoped for. The album launches took place in Grahamstown, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Stellenbosch and Cape Town. Unfortunately the Kwa-Zulu Natal leg of the tour had to be cancelled; however KZN is the much loved home of front man Rory Eliot and has little chance of escaping a visit from the band in the near future.
For the band, the launch tour was a truly remarkable experience which allowed them to showcase the music in five of the country’s most prominent cities. Whilst being a band that aims “to be gracious, down-to-earth and generally family-orientated” they’ve delivered a modern album and stage performances which keeps their loyal fans happy whilst bringing something new to the mix that will be sure to rock first time audiences.
One of the highlights of the tour was the chance for Plush to play as a five piece band. With the new addition of Devin on drums and Dom on keyboard and accordian, Plush’s fresh start means bigger live shows and old favourites being played with new energy. And although Plush has worked at creating an album that is somewhat different to the intimate and philosophical ones of the past, fans can still relate to the more upbeat music as it remains personal. The new additions to the band allows plush to set larger venues on fire, with fearsome drums and rhythms giving their fans little choice but to go along for the ride.
Chatting to the guys, it’s easy to see why their fan base is so loyal, and ever growing. Making each friend, fan and acquaintance feel like they’re part of their adventure, each band member is easy going and simply wants to make music which is relevant and real. By being their cheeky and friendly selves, Plush manages to steal the hearts of their fans and gets overcrowded venues singing along with ease.
The road hasn’t always been easy for this band though, and with the loss of their lead guitarist and close friend, Chas Smit in 2005, Plush took a break from the music scene for a while. The memory of Chas however is a big part of what drives the band forward.
Without a doubt, Plush can expect big things in the future. They’re a band that we can relate to and constantly want to hear more of. Their songs get stuck in our heads and before we know it we’re singing along to the latest catchy melody. They’re a most loved addition to the South African music industry and are an international contender to get feet tapping.
Lastly, Goose and mother’s balls (Their new war cry… I’m sure they’ll explain this later…)
Until next time…
Kim
