Barnyard Theatre's Presents Alkemi, 8/2

‘Uit die Blou'

In the past Popular music was inhibited by music publishers dictating trends and preferences. They decided which songs would be released for public consumption or not. South Africa was no exception, for too long we were stuck with ‘old fashioned translated songs' from European countries. This phenomenon has changed in a big way with the emergence of some brilliant performers and original songwriters. Artist themselves now dictate the tastes and trends. The success of a new generation of performers such as Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers and The School Musical phenomenon, bear testimony to this.

Undoubtedly it is in our best interests to support and promote this trend. Only then will we witness people from a very young age creating ‘hip' and ‘modern' music which will last for generations to come.
Two rising stars form Pretoria, South Africa, are a prime example of what needs to be done for Afrikaans and South African music to keep if fresh and exciting. The group is Alkemi and truly "everything they touch turns to GOLD". Watch the success of their new album "Uit die blou!"

Both Shannon and Monachè have won various vocal and talent competitions locally as well as abroad. Shannon competed in the world championships in Hollywood and won seven medals as well as an ‘Industry' award. Shannon and Monachè are also very familiar with winning numerous National Eisteddfod Awards over the past few years. Their debut album ‘Uit die Blou' is truly a showcase of their vocal ability and talent.

‘Uit die Blou', Alkemi's debut album has got a very modern, energetic in your face approach with excellent melody lines and great harmonies. The album consists of very pop rock songs. Most of the songs Alkemi wrote themselves. In addition to their excellent vocal ability, Alkemi also showcase their brilliant artistry by writing songs such as ‘Crossroads', 'Delilah' and ‘Humpty Dumpty'. Alkemi is also very comfortable with singing in both languages - Afrikaans as well as English. The song "Onverstaanbaar" has already won a place in the Gauteng Songs Competition. An initiative of the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation designed specifically to showcase local talent during the 2010 FIFA World Cup

The production and musicality on the album is definitely of international standards. The album was produced by Christi Schutte who is also familiar as producer for big commercial S.A artists such as Nicholas Louw, Ray Dylan and Elizma Theron. Guitar virtuoso Jaun ‘Floors' Oosthuzen did his magic on guitar. The song ‘Boerseun' was co-written by Crecendo winner Carlè van Deventer.

To show their diversity, Alkemi included four covers on this album. Their version of Steve Hofmeyer's ‘Waarmaker' and the old classic ‘Great Balls of Fire' will surely attract a wider audience of gender and ages.

Alkemi's vocal talent and writing ability will definitely rise above the flood of mainstream music. Their talent will surely benefit the South African music industry and set an example for generations to come.

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