The local musician, 29, who lives in Krugersdorp and records in Allen’s Nek wrote and recorded the album at HIT LAB, a recording studio at Marshall Music.
The Joburger jokingly described the album’s sound as “acoustic funk reggae folk”. Before recording his debut album as a solo artist, Combrink has played for Johannesburg-based bands including New Academics, Mel-Funktion, Gang of Instrumentals, Chili and Lime, Soil 7t7 and One Day Remains. In 2012 he joined Watershed, a multi-platinum selling ensemble and remains their drummer, having also performed as part of Craig Hinds’ solo line-up, according to thebeard.fm.
He is nominated for the titles of Best Newcomer of the Year and Best Adult Contemporary. In the Newcomer of the Year category he is up against Beatenberg, Cassper, Duncan and Jeremy Loops. His album will be judged against that of Arno Carstens (Lightning Prevails), BlackByrd (Home), Josie Field (S’bongile) and Niemand (Back Again) for the Best Adult Contemporary title.
On facebook he lists his creative influences as that of Jack Johnson, Bon Iver, John Butler trio, the Dave Matthews Band, Ben Howard and Matt Corby.
About his nomination Combrink said, “I’m so excited to be nominated in the two categories at the Samas this year.”
“I’m a huge fan of all the artisits that are nominated in both those categories, so to be on that list amongst the likes of Jeremy Loops, Beatenberg and many more is such an honour.
“I wish all of the nominees the best of luck.”
He will next perform on the West Rand on 30 April, when he will be performing alongside Justin Serrao at Parker’s Comedy Club, Silverstar Casino, Muldersdrift. Tickets are not yet available.
