Another Universe

South Africa's golden boy of rock, Arno Carstens, has taken a deep breath and returned from the wilderness, older, wiser and ready to take the local music scene by quiet storm. Teaming up with an old friend Albert Frost (Dorp, Blues Broers, Frosted Orange), the ex-Springbok Nude Girls frontman has embarked upon a new project called 'New Porn', a concept that entails creative expansion, new musical philosophies and what seems to be a whole lot of soul-searching. The journey thus far has resulted in the release of 'Another Universe', Carstens' solo album, and a stunningly put-together one at that.

After the much-chronicled break-up of the Springbok Nude Girls at the end of 2001 — as confusing as it was, given that they kept on performing — many fans were left asking, "Now what?" The question is finally being answered. "With a new take on religion, new technologies, new moral standards, my artistic topics remain the same, but the stories and how they have been told have changed," writes Carstens in the album's notes. "I decided to go back to the guitar for good solid song writing."

The album is a huge departure from the Nudies days. Fans used to quaffing Tassies and jumping up and down at the varsity gigs or music fests of yore, may be a little disappointed. But then I don't think this album was made for them. This album was made for those serious about music, or as Carstens puts it: "Everyone who listens for listening sake". But that's not to say that the album is completely 'soft' — there is still that driving presence of heavy guitar work, courtesy of Frost with his Blues background, and in numerous songs, Carstens also lets rip with his familiar yodel.

'Another Universe' showcases Carstens' masterful voice like never before. There is no doubt that this artist has matured in a number of ways. His voice is stronger, and seems richer, as he paints each song with soulful harmony. Or it could just be that he's found his ultimate niche — it makes sense that when one focuses on going deeper and ultimately writing better songs, the connection resonates within the voice. Interestingly though, and this is a personal observation — others may disagree — he sounds a lot like Dave Matthews on a few of the album's tracks. Which could just be a coincidence, of course…

But the sole credit for this album cannot lie with Carstens alone. As a musical package, the album is wonderfully layered with rousing guitar interplay — Frost works his instrument like a man with a vision and undoubtedly plays an important part in Carstens' self-proclaimed "new musical dream". From hardcore rock in 'Woman', to lilting melodies in 'Another Universe' (receiving a fair amount of radio-play at the moment) and 'Neon Girl', to even Spanish-sounding riffs in 'Hiroshima', the sound of the guitar is ever-present.

A very clever inclusion, I think, to the mix is that of Brendan Jury, the violin-player well known for his involvement in Urban Creep, Transky and Ohm. His violin adds such an aurally interesting element to the album, taking it to another level, and at times, making it quite dark and reflective. Barry Van Zyl (plays with Johnny Clegg) on the drums and Concord Nkabinde (also played with Johnny Clegg and Family Factory) on bass provide strong backup. Altogether, the musicians present a potent formula and one that we'll hopefully get to hear more of.

Interestingly, the album is also distinctly South African, particularly when it comes to the guitar instrumentals. And therein lies another message. In the most powerful song on the album 'African Sun Rise', Carstens defiantly declares, "This love is no surprise/This is an African sunrise/Up, up whole world." He also asks in the chorus, "Is the rhythm coming home?" and the answer is undoubtedly, yes. At last!

With an all-out emphasis on all things "new" — New Porn, new music, a new philosophy — 'Another Universe' is bound to do well. Carstens can trade on his well-established popularity to haul in the old crowd, but he will also win over even more fans with his freshly-found sincerity. Some may complain that he has lost his edge, and perhaps he has — there's no sign of the Nudies' trademark aggression. But it seems to me that Carstens has found a new identity, one that fits him better and is ultimately more fulfilling. It shows in the music — less swagger and more soul, and it's very refreshing.

Click here to read about the concert on September 22 at Cape Town's Baxter Theatre that launched 'Another Universe'...

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