Biography:

The most common comparisons offered in amongst the crowds following a Simon van Gend gig seem to be some vague vocal reference to Cat Stevens or the less knowledgeable stab-in-the-dark of Jack Johnson, like the guy invented the acoustic music genre and you fall under him by default. I suppose the music does evoke a similar sense of nostalgia, the introspective lyrics and melancholic indie folk-rock leanings from the acoustic guitar of this singer-songwriter do strike a chord not far from the same heart; but this band is from South Africa. The words are from these shores.

Simon’s second album ‘Pocketsongs’ is a Cape Town album with loads of great melodies, harmonies and choice rhythms. It’s a walk around the head and heart of an artist who has spent the last 10 years perfecting his trade, gradually building a name for himself in and around the Mother City as a songwriter and performer. The band, with Simon on vocals & acoustic guitar, features Eric Michot on bass and Ross Campbell on drums.

The album was recorded at Simon's home, in front of a fire, the lounge and dining room filled with recording gear and instruments. For three rainy months the band and producer David Maclean worked, laughed, ate and recorded a warm, soulful album, bringing in guest artists such as Zolani Mahola (Freshlyground), Inge Beckman (Lark), Tony Cox and Alex van Heerden, to add textures and diversity to the sound.

Simon has a degree in microbiology, doesn't do religion, but talks about the i ching with a certain amount of enthusiasm. A typesetter by day and songwriter between 3 and 4am, Simon likes to get to the bottom of the things that keep him awake at night.

Eric is a French pastry chef for a top notch hotel out Betty's Bay way and makes the best croissants. No one in the audience understands the things he says, but it doesn't seem to matter. He is an optimist and a bit of a charmer.

Ross is a cynic and father of two. He runs a small record company which doesn't sell very many beautifully obscure albums. He's also played drums for Benguela, Fetish, Urban Creep, Landscape Prayers and even Celtic Rumours back in the 80's.

Back to top



Reviews:

“You can actually hear this album was recorded at a peaceful, inspiring home, in front of a fire. the distinctive sounds of the violin, accordion, the giggles and mandolin keep on surprising you while gazing into the fire.”
- Big Issue : Veerle Snijders, May 2006

“This sterling, indie-folk rock album from local strummer Van Gend is such a great find. Laid-back, harmonious with a twist of melancholia and sentimentality (the good kind), this is music which will slip under the skin and into your heart this winter.”
- Femina : June 2006

“Bringing new meaning to words lo-fi and minimal, Simon Van Gend and his trusty guitar deliver 13 real-life and very essential acoustic extensions we should all be playing.. for those who dig deeper to discover what’s real”
- Pulse Mag : June/July 2006

“Unashamedly sentimental songs about love, nostalgia and life as a slightly bemused man in Cape Town. If you want a clue to the album’s sound, the liner notes tell us it was recorded in winter, in the lounge, in front of the fireplace’. The music is beautifully restrained, making Pocketsongs the perfect CD for those introspective, maudlin moments.”
- Marie Claire : Chris Roper, July 2006

“... bevat earlike musiek wat alledaagse voorwerpe, verhoudings en ervarings to smaakvolle kuns verhef”
- Die Burger : Faan Herhold, 26 May 2006

“It’s light, lazy Sunday afternoon acoustic folk.. There are some genuinely beautiful guitar riffs, vocal harmonies and piano sections on the album.”
- SL Magazine : Matthew Freemantle, August 2006

Back to top