Why This South African Band Vanished For 12 Years
On this episode we sit down with Sabretooth, South Africa's 80s-inspired band, to unpack their 12 year hiatus, and the moment that got them back together. We also touch on their first gig back in Cape Town, and whether or not they'll be releasing music on Spotify given the recent controversy surrounding the platform and other South African bands pulling their music off it. #sabretoothband #southafricanmusic #metalrevival #capetownbands #bandinterview #musicdocumentary #ramfest #synergy...
On this episode we sit down with Sabretooth, South Africa's 80s-inspired band, to unpack their 12 year hiatus, and the moment that got them back together. We also touch on their first gig back in Cape Town, and whether or not they'll be releasing music on Spotify given the recent controversy surrounding the platform and other South African bands pulling their music off it.
#sabretoothband #southafricanmusic #metalrevival #capetownbands #bandinterview #musicdocumentary #ramfest #synergylive
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SABRETOOTH
Band
Origins & Style
Formed in 2009 in Cape Town, Sabretooth embraced a melodic, neoclassical heavy metal sound infused with 1980s-era metal sensibilities. Their compositions drew from traditional metal riffs and melodic flourishes, often edging into classical inspired technicality. Styles include: Melodic, 80s Metal, Neoclassical heavy metal & Progressive Metal. They are known for blending metal’s melodic roots with classical elements and 80s inspired energy.
Active Years & Evolution
The band remained active between 2009 and about 2013, with a return in 2025 with a new lineup.
Scene & Recognition
Sabretooth stood out in Cape Town’s metal scene during the early 2010s. HeavyHops—a South African heavy music platform—described them as a six-piece band dedicated to 80s-inspired metal from Cape Town, noted for their musicianship and dedication to a vintage yet technically proficient sound.
Their presence was still acknowledged as late as the 2025 Metal4Africa Summerfest, where they were listed among recurring local performers alongside other Cape Town stalwarts like Mind Assault, and Infanteria.
Key Releases
Self titled album (2012), Ready To Rock (Single)
Live Presence
Featured in local festivals like Metal4Africa Summerfest, Winterfest, Synergy Main Stage, Synergy Tented Stage, RamFest M4A Stage, RamFest Main Stage….
Legacy & Impact
Though they didn’t achieve international fame, Sabretooth represented a cherished niche in Cape Town’s heavy music community—providing a melodic, technically refined voice during a period when …
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