Plum Release New Single: “How The West Was Lost”

South African alternative trailblazers Plum are maintaining their impressive stride with the release of “How The West Was Lost.” This compelling new single, released via Mongrel Records, serves as a testament to the band’s sharpened artistic vision and current creative evolution.

More info about Plum

Since their inception in 1996, Plum has consistently defied genre conventions. By fusing a foundation of rock, blues, and funk with elements of trip-hop, nu-metal, and drum & bass, they crafted a signature sound rooted in a spirit of experimentation — a philosophy that continues to drive their music today.

Last February, the band ended a 17-year hiatus with the release of “Don’t Stop Believing.” Rather than a simple nostalgic comeback, the track signaled a total “reset” for the group. Now, original members Kevin and Waz have teamed up with drummer Ryan Greenwood to form a revitalized trio.

This line-up has been carving out a fresh path through intense writing sessions and high-energy live sets that showcase a more confident, direct, and energized sound.

The new single is a haunting, genre-defying reflection on the stagnation of modern civilization. By drawing parallels between contemporary society and the fall of ancient Rome, the track explores how decay often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. It blends indie textures with biting social commentary, highlighting the paradox of a world that is technologically accelerating while culturally regressing.

Plum has long been celebrated for their live presence, having commanded stages at iconic South African festivals like Oppikoppi and Praise the Loud Fest. Their current run of performances reveals a band driven by cohesion and purpose, re-establishing their connection with local audiences through a powerful, forward-looking stage show.

With more new material currently in development, Plum is focused entirely on the road ahead. This latest chapter isn’t about looking back; it’s about a future defined by intentionality and a renewed sense of meaning.

Check out the visualizer for Plum‘s latest single below:

I have to admit that I’m quite blown away by this track. I vaguely remember watching Plum live years ago, but I would love to see them perform again one day. Maybe they’ll make a turn in the Capital City in the near future.

You can stream “How The West Was Lost” HERE.

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