Monark releases Negatives

Could you give us some insights on the recording process for the new album, "Negatives"?

Ewald Jansen van Rensburg: Our process relies on a type of synergy where the original impetus for a song is provided by one of us in varying degrees of completion or vision. From there we bounce off of each other creatively until we have clear picture of where the song should go, production and arrangement-wise.

Photo by Waldo Pretorius

Why the title?

Just as a negative on a piece of film is used as a blueprint to recreate copies of a picture, so is this album almost like a snapshot in time for us. It will always show what we felt and thought here in 2014, and although that picture might change in future, this particular negative will always hold what is true to us and what caused us to go down this path.

If you could some up the album in one word, what would it be?

Espressos

What's your favourite track off the album, and why?

Smiling, because on this track we discovered our chemistry as a band; we were friends for many years prior and always made music together in one form or the other, but a lot of elements came into focus when we finished it.

Any tricks or treats planned for the national tour starting in August?

We'll be leaving the trick or treats for our October shows ;) However, come August we'll be playing our hearts out for you guys. A brand new show, look and feel. You have to come see it!

Where will you be touring?

All the major cities including Cape Town, Durban, PE, Bloemfontein, Joburg, Pretoria, Potchefstroom and Stellenbosch.

What is the meaning behind the band name MonArk?

a) Monark the Swedish bicycle.
b) Monarch Butterfly.
c) Monarch (a sovereign head of a state).
d) None of the above

A lot of c) with a bit of b) -because who doesn't like butterflies?!- and a touch of a) -for good health.

You have had quite a lot of radio success with previous releases. What do you think are the magical ingredients or are there any in getting national radio play?

It's hard to pin it down to one element or formula (otherwise everyone would be doing it, all the time!), but having some form of universality, either in the theme, emotion or lyrics is certainly a great starting point. Dropping phat beats never hurt either!

Your best and worst things about the SA music industry?

Best: People are really welcoming and open, no credentials needed. If you prove to be credible and trustworthy, fans, radio stations, industry execs etc. will become your biggest friends and champions in no time. South Africa is still really old-fashioned and organic that way.
Worst: The industry is a real small place, word gets around quickly for better and worse. No off days allowed :)

If the band Monark could be characterised by an animal, what would it be and why?

The Gray wolf- rugged, a little misunderstood, hard working, will howl a nice little tune if the moo(n)d is right!

Quick Fire Questions

Q. What's the first thing that comes to mind when hearing the following words?

Camembert: An old English fellow, Sir Camembert presumably, with an affinity for croquet.
Rebel: Liquor store.
2013: Hover skateboards?
Jumping Castle: 1990.The year of champions

To pre-order Negatives got to iTunes

www.monarkband.co.za