The Arrows >>> by Amy Reinecke
Introducing The Arrows: Daringly passionate with purpose, descending into a backdrop of darkness and despair! This is anti-aimless music with a mission of original intention.
It is not often you hear a 5-track CD you just can-not get sick of. Like the rest of the world so desperate for fine music, once I hear a catchy song it is inevitable… I will kill it by perpetually pressing repeat on my CD player. Problem (or not)…the Arrows debut CD will not die.
The Arrows trio has burst out of Durban, breaking into the South African music scene. They have been rocking together since 2006 and are progressively re-appearing on the national scene – particularly after touring Joburg, Cape Town and landing airtime on 5FM. Self-described as new jazz-pop-experimental and comprised of an extremely passionate Pam on keys/vocals, Christie punishing the drums and a smooth Bongani on bass. Add a hint of disco look and feel and you have an unpredictable and undeniable fresh talent.
Whilst on tour in JHB in May I went to check out this band whose songs were replaying in my head. From the first fearless note out of Pam’s lips, I was impressed. Pam Demendes unashamedly began the set with boldness and, after an upbeat song, effectively slowed down to a ballade…
Their performance in the small smoky basement of Cool Running’s, Melville, was top class. The Arrows do exactly as their name implies – they aim, shoot and pierce their audience with penetrating lyrics and a lively show. Each member of the band has their own stage presence – this is not a sad case of lead singer with supporting musicians. Their energy and excitement charmed the crowd, particularly when Pam and Bongani broke out into a funky feet whipping number – part cool part kitsch – I loved it either way.
So far I have read only positive reviews of their music, despite a few comments on the religious nature of the lyrics. The Arrows are bringing the name of Jesus and catchy charismatic tunes into the spotlight.
The Arrows openly profess their faith but choose not to classify themselves as ‘gospel’. Their music is classified as it is and the lyrics speak for themselves. You cannot listen to ‘In the words – (of Satan)’ and not understand what they are proclaiming — hard hitting gospel! Each song is a story, a journey and an open journal sketching their walk with God. This is reality, and reality is what the world craves today, even more than (to misquote Pam) ‘…jewellery, cars and things…’ that bombard us ‘on the TV’ screens…’
The Arrows are seeking to be light and life in a dark place that needs Jesus…Their first EP self-titled; ‘The Arrows’ is available from their website http://www.thearrowsband.com and their full length album ‘Make Believe’ is available early 2010.