The Lectric Monks are a South African upbeat “Tarantino-rock” outfit from Pretoria, formed in the Spring of 2014. The 5-piece includes, Francois vd Merwe (Rhythm and Vocals), Gary Peacock (Harmonica and Vocals), Henk Oosthuizen (Lead Guitar and Vocals), Finn Mackinnon (Drums) and Arthur Maslo (Bass).

Drawing from rootsy rock ‘n roll, folk, classical, blues, indie, jazz and psychedelic music, the band’s image and sound evokes a nostalgic blend of music of the past with today’s modern styles, creating an upbeat dance experience for all, “a new kind of old stuff” as some have described. They will be one of the acts performing at Oppikoppi 2016 this year.

I had a chat to Gary from The Lectric Monks, this is what he had to say:

When you think of Oppikoppi, what comes to mind?

Dust, Dames and damn good music

What do you think of the current state of South African music?

Befok! Even though we can only speak for the Gauteng scene, local music standards are picking up and the live venues are pumping now. Long gone are days where you wondered what is happening in the evenings…

If you could create a super group, who would be in the band?

It is good that you asked that, because we are busy putting together a group like that. It is called

The WTF’s with: Finn AKA Archie kingpin operating the water cannon, Arthur AKA Mr Box on trampoline, Henk AKA Peggy Sue on Stilts, Francois AKA Franza Bonanza handling the animals and Gary AKA Fucking Gary on background interpretive dancing.

What is the funniest thing that you’ve experienced on stage?

Gary’s interpretive dancing!

What can music fans expect from your set at Oppikoppi this year?

High energy groove and debuting some new material!

I’d like to thank Gary and The Lectric Monks for this interview. If you’re going to Oppikoppi this year, make sure that you check their set out at the Top Bar stage on Saturday at 3 PM.

Watch this space for regular updates in the Music and Interviews categories on Running Wolf’s Rant.