Soweto's Shameless Unleash A Unique Fusion Of Rock And Township Vibes With Debut Album NKABI ROCK
Brace yourselves for the sonic revolution as Shameless, the ground-breaking trio from the heart of Soweto, introduces their debut album, NKABI ROCK, blending the raw energy of rock with the vibrant spirit of the township.
By Underground Press
Published Friday, 22 March 2024 06:55
In a music scene dominated by hip-hop and house-derived genres, Shameless stands out as pioneers of a new genre that they proudly call NKABI ROCK / I Rock Yase Kasi (Assassin Rock / Rock from The Township, in isiZulu). Drawing inspiration from their upbringing and the rich musical tapestry of South Africa, Shameless' sound is a captivating fusion of metal, blues, kwaito, mbaqanga, isigxaxa, and a dash of jazz.
The dynamic trio consists of Musa Zwane, Thabang Khonje, and Thabo Masina. They are at the forefront of a growing movement of rock and alternative bands emerging from Soweto. "Our music is an extension of rock" Zwane explains. "It's a fusion of our diverse influences, reflecting the soul of the township".
At the heart of NKABI ROCK lies the single, 'Mission Impossible' which is a collaboration with the heavy Portugese band “Scúru Fitchádu”. It’s a powerful anthem tackling the pervasive issues of rampant drug addiction and the resultant theft within their community – specifically the scourge of nyaope addiction in Soweto. "The song is very deep and from the heart," Zwane shares. "It shows how angry and tired we are of addicts who steal from people."
Recorded live, NKABI ROCK captures the raw intensity and authenticity of Shameless' electrifying performances.
"We wanted to emerge with something powerful in our hands, The album is a testament to our resilience and passion for our craft." Zwane reflects.
With NKABI ROCK Shameless is not only redefining the sound of rock but also amplifying the voices of the township. As they prepare to embark on their journey to conquer hearts and minds around the globe, Shameless invites listeners to join them on a musical odyssey unlike any other.
Thabang Khonje, reflecting on the band's journey and future aspirations, adds, "We're pretty much at the peak of our career so far. We've somewhat smashed our short-term goal, which was to tour around the country, spread the word, and let the people be awakened. But now we want to cross over, engage with new international audiences, and be relevant to the world's greatest hitmakers in the space we are in."
With NKABI ROCK, Shameless is not only redefining the sound of rock but also amplifying the voices of the township.