Crystal Park are playing at Oppikoppi again this year and I must say that I’m really looking forward to their set. This alternative country band from Benoni has been around for the past 6 years.
According to their Facebook page, their music roams the deep, dark, dangerous world of the suburbs, streets and myths of their hometown – from the famed “Benoni Werewolves” of the 80’s, to the most popular pubs, drinking holes and take-away joints, to the ladies of the night (if you’re looking for a good time). I tend to agree with this assessment (but I’m skeptical about ladies of the night from Benoni).
I’ve seen Crystal Park live a few times and I really enjoy watching them perform. The free stuff that they give away at the their shows is always a bonus. Those “Cane Rats” (something mixed with Cane in a glass) went down pretty damn well that one time and those free boerie rolls that Braaiboy made during their show at Otterlake Easter Festival one year saved me from starvation.
I recently had a chat to Steve East (a man with a beard that’s so awesome you simply can’t ignore it) from Crystal Park about Oppikoppi and a few other things. This is what he had to say:
When you think of Oppikoppi, what comes to mind?
It’s like a Human Dust Stew Recipe: 20 000 Humans, 10 tons of Dust, stir with a big wooden spoon of Top International and SA Music, add in about 40 000 shots of Jose Cuervo, at least 50 000 cans of Windhoek. Sprinkle with 100 tons of Good Times. Cook on high for 3 days.
What have you guys been up to lately?
We’re busy recording new material. We will have some teaser demos released soon online. The album is going to be released in 2 parts, the first part to be released in Nov then the 2nd part early 2017. Working title for the album at the moment is “Long Bucks & Tall Stories”.
What is the funniest things you’ve ever experienced at a Oppikoppi festival?
You can spend hours at the Red Bull stage – or by the rope at Skellum Stage – just watching people fall down the hill. Top class comedy.
What is your favourite quote about Country Music?
Not really quotes, but you always get great Country song titles. Like “Get Your Tongue Outta My Mouth Cause I’m Kissing You Goodbye” or “I Still Miss You Baby, But My Aim’s Gettin’ Better”.
What can music lovers expect from your set at Oppikoppi 2016?
We’re going to have a ton of fun. We are part of the “Oppiboosh” lineup on the Saturday on the Bruilof Stage, along with Shortstraw, Tidal Waves, Rambling Bones, The Hip Replacements and more, so it’s going to be a great day, we’ll be playing some new tracks and giving out a bunch of free shit like we always do.
I’d like to thank Steve and Crystal Park for this interview and I wish them all of the best with their set at Oppikoppi this year. I’m definitely swinging by for a good time and you should be doing the same.
Watch this space for regular updates in the Music and Interviews categories on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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