Aidan is most likely the South African bluesy rock love child of Jimmy Page and Keith Richards. His band has just dropped a new music video for their song Refugee. Earlier this week, I had a chance to electronically catch up with him before they set off to Psych Night & Vans Present: Endless Daze Festival . Here’s what followed:
Grind Radio:
Hey Aidan, thanks for taking some time to chat to us. I am really impressed with your sound. There’s a beautiful mix of Led Zeppelin and Rolling stones in there. Do you think this is something today generations of rock lovers are missing out on the full spectrum of the scene?
Aidan Martin
:
Thank you. Appreciate the compliment and glad you like it.
Although Rock is still going strong internationally, I do think South African’s are missing out on the full spectrum. It’s tough and expensive for local musos to tour and it’s just as difficult for local production companies to afford international acts. Also, these days there is so much entertainment keeping us busy online whereas back in the day, going to the show and rocking out was the best thing to do.
GR:
You just launched your new video for your song Refugee. Tell us a bit about the video shoot?
AM:
It was hard work. We spent 3 days on set in Pringle Bay and surrounding areas and only got 3 hours sleep each night. But at the same time we learnt so much, got to brush up on our acting skills, drove around in a Mustang and enjoyed the experience. I think we were extremely lucky to work with a very talented and passionate team. Everyone who was involved gave it their best.
GR:
What can we expect form the rest of the album?
AM:
There is a lot more to come and I think people will definitely be surprised. Each song is unique and will individually make its impact.
GR:
Graham Ward was in charges of Refugees production. How did it feel to have a man with so many amazing acts under his belts in charge of your project?
AM:
It has been a really good experience to collaborate with Graham on this project. He has many years of experience, serious talent and some crazy ass stories. The mood in the studio has always been something that celebrates music. So we work hard but have a good time while doing it.
GR:
You’re heading to Endless Daze festival at the start of November. What’s your top 5 packing essentials for every festival?
AM:
Yeah, we are really looking forward to the festival. I think the line-up is really good and it has been a pleasure working with the Endless team.
To pack… one should never forget a taser gun, to zap annoying drunks when needed. Hahahaha. No, just joking. But on a serious note:
1.) Sunscreen… ‘cause really, have you seen people at festivals who forgot this item. Don’t want to be that dude.
2.) Water bottle. Hot and thirsty in the sun just ain’t my style.
3.) Lighter. Always need one.
4.) Shorts and plakkies. Hot in the sun… really ain’t my thing.
5.) Snacks, snacks and more snacks.
GR:
What artist are you most looking forward to see play at Endless Daze festival?
AM:
The whole line-up is great. But yeah, I’m looking forward to checking Sannie Fox again. Dig their sound. Also, I have never had a chance to check BCUC, believe that’s gonna be very good as I have only heard good things about them. Lastly, we had the pleasure of sharing the stage with Medicine Boy at STRAB earlier this year and I am very excited to hear some of their new material live.
GR:
Let’s play some word association. Write down the first thing that comes to mind.
AM:
1. Vans – Touring
2. Refugee – Crime
3. Brandy – Special
4. Grind Radio – Lekka
5. Rattlesnakes – Rhythm
GR:
Where on the interwebs can our readers get a hold of you?
AM:
Facebook I guess would be the first place. Website will be up and running very soon. This would be at www.aidanmartin.co
For those of you looking to catch The Aidan Martin Band live be sure to check them out at the following events:
Saturday, 5 November 2016
Venue: Kamers
Address:
Time: 14h00 – 16h00
Tickets: https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/55e587fc-0a0c-48c0-90ee-75f513f893af
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1405323333100608/
Endless Daze Festival:
Psych Night has joined hands and feet again with Vans to bring you Endless Daze Festival. EDF gives you a chance to get in touch with Mother Nature while shaking your money maker. Froth (USA), The KVB (UK) alongside some of the best local talent will be keeping those hips moving all weekend.
Friday, 11 November
Venue: Silwerstroom Resort
Address: Off R27 / West Coast Rd
Time: 21h00
Entrance: R420 – Book Online: http://endlessdazefest.com/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1760797577536520/
Thursday, 17 November 2016
Venue: Balboa Bar
Address: 18A Andringa St, Stellenbosch
Time: 18h00
Entrance: Free
Saturday, 26 November 2016
Venue: The Nameless Bar
Address: 101 Main Rd, Lionviham, Cape Town
Time: 18h00
Entrance: Free
Sunday, 27 November 2016
Venue: Yours Truly
Address: 73 Kloof St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
Time: 16h00
Entrance: Free
Photo Courtesy : Henry Engelbrecht