SA’s Queen of rock is strongest when she just tells it as it
is. Karen Zoid is known for her clever and penetrating lyrics; her distinctive
voice and ability to write brave and delicately rendered songs.
Thematically the new album comments on the “destructive
seduction” of the information overload that we have to deal with in the modern
world. Karen comments: “Times are hard. But that doesn’t mean that we must
withdraw. We need to find our way back to ourselves. We must be able to be
quiet before knowing what to say and what to do. And from there go wholeheartedly for what we
want in life.”
“Drown Out The Noise” was written and recorded over a period
of a year. It is her first English album in seven years and Karen absolutely
loved being back in studio with friend and producer Theo Crous.
Every track adheres to robust song writing principles. The
tone switches dramatically between classic rock arrangements, powerful ballads
and deeply moving compositions. Karen says that she wanted to make a full
bellied album with bells and whistles and grand arrangements. She comments that
it was important for her to make an effort to write and record a proper album.
“It will be sad if everyone just records singles. It doesn`t allow for a
complete story to take shape.”
The songs on the album touch nerve and heart. The gutsy
emotion and pop-defying delivery offers an album that sounds like nothing in
the world right now. “Justice Justice” was written in memory of Anene Booysen.
Zoid was deeply disturbed by Anene`s story. She comments “Crime in this country
is a topic we all are concerned about.
The rape statistics in our country are exceedingly high. It troubles me
greatly. We need justice.”
“Troublemaker” is a special Madiba song, co-written and
recorded with Zolani Mahola, lead singer from Freshlyground. Zoid says that
they have been working together on projects for a long time, but this is the
first time that they have written a song together. It was a special time in
studio, as well as very emotional for them, because Madiba died during the week
that they were busy creating this song. Zoid says that she loves the 100 year
old chant that Zolani worked into the end of the song. It is a traditional
Xhosa chant that calls for the revealing of the next Troublemaker/Peacemaker.
Karen also collaborated with Francois van Coke on the track
“Smile.” Their Afrikaans single “Toe Vind Ek Jou” that is featured on Van
Coke`s solo album has had more than 250 000 views on Youtube, in less than a
week and is was the first South African song to debut at no.1 on the Kia Top 40
SA with iTunes chart on KFM and Highveld Stereo.
“We`re all gonna die Someday.” is a dark tongue in the cheek
song. This title ties in with the overall theme of the album. Karen hopes that
the album will encourage people to go back to find the spark within, “that
still place from where we can all dream big again.” She adds: “Stop being so
hooked in by the noise of the world. We are fuelling the fire of mass hysteria.
You have one life. Live it from your gut, not social media.”
“Drown out the Noise” is a lovely jolt of energy-punching
tunes that will fill you with exhilaration. A refreshing album that will stand
out because of Karen`s unapologetic, raw take on things. A must have for your
music collection.
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