2021 vs 2023
In this episode of the podcast, Marcel interviews 3’s and 7’s, a three-piece Alternative Rock band from Johannesburg South Africa. They discuss their journey since their first interview with Marcel during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when they were trying to figure out how to record and release songs.
Matt says, ‘Back then we tried to be a four-piece then COVID hit and we hadn’t really done much at that point of the year and at that time we were also trying to figure out how we were going to start recording songs. There was a lot of planning, trial and error and things not working. Throughout 2021 people would get COVID and studios closed down because restrictions had changed, it was crazy trying to be a band around that time.’
KZN SYNESTHESIA TOUR
They chat about their recent touring experience and the strain touring puts on artists, with Matt saying:
‘Touring was both fantastic and very tiring. It’s exhilarating playing at these new places we’d never thought we’d play and meeting a whole bunch of people that we’ve known over the years who are down in Durban. At the same time we played the first show, that was pretty damn awesome and then the second night you gotta do it again and I’m not gonna lie I was feeling so tired and I was like how do you guys do this if you’re touring?’
THE CHALLENGE OF MAKING THINGS WORK DURING MURRAY’S ABSENCE
3’s and 7’s also talk about having a member overseas for nine months, and how they managed to stay in contact and come up with ideas.
‘While I was over in the UK, it was really challenging not only just to keep the band going but also to keep in contact as friends. I felt like we managed to keep coming up with ideas and send them through to each other. Matt and Lorenzo were working behind the scenes quite a lot and really took the mantle and ran with it. I don’t think there are many bands that would be able to stick through the trials and tribulations we’ve been through. It has been really awesome to have that communication and a common goal, we just want to continue making music and continue being a band,’ says Murray.
THE SWEDEN, 3’S AND 7’S AND SATURN RETURN CONNECTION
To round off, in the most unlikely connection, they mention their music miraculously reaching Sweden through Durban favourites Saturn Return.
‘There’s one fan we have in Sweden, who also happens to be a massive fan of Saturn Return and by extension of them, that fan found our music. That person has said our second single ‘Subliminal Skies’ is still their favourite since the day they heard it and they’re always adding our songs to their monthly favourite playlists and it’s such a validating feeling knowing that someone in Sweden digs our song that much, so I’m glad it’s getting around,’ says Matt.
KEEPING THE MUSIC ALIVE
3’s and 7’s are reaching new heights, and their story is one of resilience and determination. They have faced many challenges, but have managed to stay connected and keep their music alive. Plus, with their recent tour having been a success, they are sure to make a lasting impression on the South African music scene and they’re only getting started. Check out the full episode here and for all things 3’s and 7’s, click here
