Graffiti Lounge

For those who remember the '80s like yesterday, this album will be a nostalgic, back to the future trip where the issues of today are explored through the talents of an iconic band from the past.

eVoid still bears much of its original "junk jive" sound. The melody and vocals are reminiscent of Credence Clearwater Revival, attributed to the smoothing of rough edges through experience. What makes it current is the presence of a versatile energy similar to that of Chris Chameleon and the ethno-rock, African passion of Johnny Clegg, peppered with an ex-pat perspective.

After hits like 'Shadows' and 'Taximan', eVoid left the country at the cusp of the '90s, in pursuit of international success and to avoid being conscripted to fight for a political cause they didn't ascribe to. The Windrich brothers have been abroad for just under twenty years, living 'Under Blue Skies' through their music although their sound never grew roots amongst the British. The familiar longing of ex-pats echoes in their lyrics: "Now I'm at the crossroads, the only way to go: nkosi sikelele, sikelele Afrika" from 'Mix it Up'.

Some tracks sound a bit dated, whilst others embrace the vision and cultural shifts of current day South Africa through their lyrics.

'Not in My Name' was written in outrage at the inattention of the American government to the people's opinion of the Iraq war. This track embodies the conviction of people united for a cause, whilst baring the despair of a people left unheard. Another cause eVoid is concerned about, the green movement, is raised in 'iKologi'.

Although this album won't be acknowledged by the mass market and rocket to the top of the charts, it certainly will stand as a firm favourite amongst those who savour South African giants like Clegg.