Boho chic and indie tunes: The Motherland
FOURWAYS - Local hipster folk band, The Motherland, gave Fourways Review an exclusive scoop following their successful launch of their latest debut album Three Sheets to the Wind.
The band was founded by Sean Hayz, who started out playing guitar and singing folk songs. Later he found a guitarist and a bassist to accommodate for larger gigs.
This indie band has been around for just over a year, and comprises Hayz on vocals and guitar, Geraint Boje on electric and upright bass, Amber Valentine on lead guitar and Louis Malherbe II on drums.
“We are The Motherland because we are inspired by our country, its cultures and its art. We are proudly South African and therefore represent our own motherland and it seemed like an apt name,” said Hayz.
The band intended to target their music for the older crowds, however as the band progressed, a younger crowd has entered their fan base. “Our target audience, honestly, is anyone who appreciates our music, anyone who we can provide an experience for… we seem to go down well with many people of many ages, and as our sound evolves, there’s no telling where our music will lead us and who it will lead us to,” said Hayz.
Following the release of their debut album, the band is ecstatic and proud of their achievements. The band was able to fill an entire theatre where they showcased their latest tunes. Hayz noted the band has plans to release a music video, go on a national tour and become a household name. “When people sing your lyrics, it’s a pretty amazing feeling to know your music has been the soundtrack to a part of someone’s life; the sounds we created out of our own emotions or life experiences that keep us going. We have some lows, but the highs are so amazing, they’re indescribable, they keep us motivated,” said Hayz.
He went on to say up-and-coming artists and bands should always be true to their music, play as much as possible, whether it be for 20 people or 100. “Never be late, never cancel last minute and basically don’t be substandard, it’s a tough industry so make yourself irreplaceable,” said Hayz.
The Motherland is a regular at the Fourways Farmers Market, and their music can be accessed via Itunes and Soundcloud.
Watch: The Motherland – Forest:
Have you seen The Motherland play live? Share your experiences with Fourways Review in the comments below.
