As far as distinct voices go, that of aKING alum Laudo Liebenberg is one of the most recognisable of any South African frontman. AKING’s well-known discography is rooted in Liebenberg’s grave vocals, so his solo endeavour was always going to be an interesting listen–whether he was going to stick to what he knows or venture down a more experimental path.
Under the moniker of Run Into Waves, Liebenberg is exploring an alternative pop soundscape that suits his introspective songwriting, and his debut EP Night Owls is an intriguing first offering. There’s something to be said for putting together a release without any pressure from external forces, and with that in mind, Night Owls feels original and brutally honest.
Take the title track “Night Owls”–Liebenberg said that someone was held up at gunpoint at his local beach parking lot around sunset and he imagined himself in that situation. Just another day in good ol’ RSA. But its broody undertone of a sped-up “Nightcall” gives it warm-toned layers and makes it one of the most interesting tracks that he’s ever written.
There’s also a great yin and yang situation happening with “Same Old Mistake” and “Get Back”. With “Same Old Mistake” brilliantly featuring Taxi Violence alum George van der Spuy, the two seasoned frontmen play with the intricacies of a relationship where one person wants to change but the other can’t seem to break out of their destructive habits. “Get Back” takes this idea further, touching on the cycle of abusive behaviour from all angles, and how hard that can be to shake.
If you joined the party hoping for more aKING-sounding jams, you’ve got single “The Wire” which will make a great melodic anthem live, but there’s way more to love on this EP, you just have to listen a bit harder and longer.
