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Biography
SacriFist is one of the longest running metal bands in SA history ever, with some of the
highest selling album and merchandise sales in the SA metal industry. But it is live
where the energy that is SacriFist is revealed!
In 1993, Sammy F. Simegi, Michael Kiefer, Paul Verster and Andre Liebenberg formed
SacriFist. Bands such as Children of Bodom, At the Gates, Dark Tranquility, Slayer and
In Flames were the musical influences for the material written by SacriFist, and in 1995
the first album “The Tides Have Turned” was recorded, although not released until a
few years later.
1997 saw SacriFist, Metalmorphosis and Jaded Jane take the “Agony and Ecstasy Tour”
across the country backed by Jack Daniels and Old Kimberly, in a blur of hotels and
motels, highways and byways, aspirin and a truckload of bourbon.
The same year SacriFist joined Agro on the “Death before Disco” tour, spreading havoc
wherever they performed and leaving each town with a rapidly expanding national fan
base. In December 1997 SacriFist embarked on a headlining tour of South Africa “The
Summer Blast SA Tour” backed by Nuclear Blast.
By 1999, SacriFist released their second album “Liquid Seasons” and Andre Liebenberg
persisted to target the mainstream markets, and in 2002 Sammy F. Simegi, Michael
Kiefer and Paul Verster brought the band back to its original sound and heaviness with
Shaun Moseley joining on bass.
2004 sadly saw Paul Verster leaving the band to attend to his business. Byron Meyers
took over on lead and it was in 2004 that SacriFist finally entered the studio once again
to record their best album to date “The Well of Sacrifice”. Dwayne Coetzee was brought
in on vocals.
2005 has seen SacriFist gigging from Pretoria to Durban to Nelspruit. Their powerful
melodic metal has regained their original fan base and gathering an increasing number
of new fans, not only locally but across the globe. The live shows have an ever
increasing amount of energy and are an experience on its own to watch. The songs
online have had over a thousands of downloads, and SacriFist is finally taking back the
original metal glory.
In 2005 SacriFist signed a distribution deal with Alter Ego Records. The DestrucTour
was planned for early 2006 seeing SacriFist and Mind Assault with many other friends
rip across the country.
Today SacriFist is seen as one of the biggest and most successful metal outfits in SA
history and is fortunate enough to be part of the headline bands at all major metal
festivals across the country.
In September 2007 SacriFist entered the studio again to record their fourth full length
album, Surrealist Plague. The music has evolved to be more progressive and melodic,
but still retaining the original power that is associated with SacriFist. Surrealist Plague
was released April 2008 with great success, and work has already started on their 5th
album.
Sammy, Byron, Dwayne, Shaun and Michael have one aim - to keep the heart of
Melodic Metal beating strongly in South Africa!!
2
Discography
1997: When The Tides
Turn (Demo)
1999: Liquid Seasons
(CD, Self-Production)
2004: The Well Of Sacrifice
(CD, Self-Production)
2006: Orgazmatracks 4
(Compilation)
2008: Surrealist Plague
(CD, Self-Production)
3
Just a few Gig Reviews
Music Maker Magazine March/April 2007 Issue:
.....by now there was no stopping this metal machine called “Motherfudd” plowing
forward into the night as it became time for the fathers of SA Metal to teach the rookies
a few lessons in shred. SacriFist and Agro!
Established in 1993 SacriFist’s roots run deep into African soil with their debut album
being released 12 years ago, and the countless performances and tours that followed.
Their dominating melodic metal sound along with an exhilarating stage persona makes
SacriFist an act that is not to be missed. Watch out for their next album due for
release later this year which promises to be the best SacriFist album to date!
Zazone February 2006:
…..they were a difficult act to follow, but SacriFist held their own, keeping the molten
metal volcano erupting. The fiery vocalist growled and screamed in perfect harmony
with the grinding of BC Rich Warlocks. At one point he leaped off the stage into the
ecstatic moshers while the lead guitarists’ fingers flew over the frets in controlled
madness. This band puts blood sweat and tears into their music and it shows. Their
album ‘The Well of Sacrifice” can be found in most cd stores, and is well worth having.
Absolute Tabs January 2006:
Sacrifist’s melodic metal has
been honed to perfection over
the years. The growling vocals
and rich melodic guitars are a
tribute to the talent we have
in this country. They drove
the crowd into a frenzied
mosh. Sacrifist is definitely at
the top of the metal list in SA.
Keep a lookout for their
countrywide tour starting in
the middle of February.
Bass Players Who’s Who June 2004:
Sacrifist is still making brutal metal after 10 years. I recently heard some raw mixes
from their album, and can assure you that if you enjoy the likes of Hypocrisy and In
Flames, Sacrifist will do nothing but impress you
4
Some Album Reviews
The Well of Sacrifice
The Zine
Reviewer: Jo Day
"The
Well
of
Sacrifice"
(10-track
ALBUM,
recorded
at
B#
Studios,
Jhb)
Snarling like an escaped tiger, "The Well of Sacrifice" comes tearing out of my speakers
with relentless fury. Tight, hooky riffs, masterful guitar solos and simply magnificent
double bass-drum work keeps me riveted - staring at the computer in disbelief that is
hasn't
exploded
yet!
These ten tracks are some of the most well-constructed I've ever heard in the Metal /
Screamo genre. Lyrics cover anger and angst from a judgmental angle that would seem
arrogant except that they're so sincere. Production is large (though I did have to tweak
the bottom end a bit - no biggie). Performances are skillful and tight - convincing me
that I have to see this band live (though I should probably book an appointment with a
chiropractor in advance!) I also enjoyed the added sound-effects and conversations in
the intros of some tracks, adding another dimension to this already enormously
interesting
album.
The power that Sacrifist conjures on "Well of Sacrifice" is so hugely aural that it's
almost visual, and I suggest you get a copy asap in order to experience the
phenomenon for yourself.
E-Metal Reviews #13 June 2007
Reviewer: Chase Smith
I honestly thought that I was going to have to kick Nick in the nuts. Last month he
gave me death metal from France (RE: Bloody Sign) that I was iffy about at first. And
this month he gives me melodic metal from South Africa! And I must say, once again,
that I am pleasantly surprised! SacriFist's newest release, "The Well of SacriFice" is a
fist pumping, ass kicking, shove you hand up your rectum and out your mouth, metal
album! It's a solid metal album. I guess this means that I should stop judging bands
by their county of origin. :)
Bottom Line: Melodic Metal at it's finest!
Pump your SacriFist!
5
Twilight-X
Reviewer: Crymyth
What if you were in the mood for some raw talent music; technical composition and
songwriting, enjoyable solos, growling vocals that makes you want to scream yourself,
hard crunching riffs complimented by a bass guitar on Ecstasy, and who could forget
the intimidating sound of a double bass pedal knocking on the kick drum.
I would easily expose myself to Sacrifist's album “The Well of Sacrifice”. It gives you
everything I described earlier on and more. For me, the best thing about an album is
how it takes you on a journey, and I don't mean telling a story. Look deeper. I'm
talking about the state of mind it forces you into. Not many albums like that are out
there, but one thing's for sure, “The Well of Sacrifice” is definitely an album I'll add to
that category with No Questions Asked.
For the album “The Well of Sacrifice”, Sacrifist's display of professionalism and passion
for music is unmatched, and in hearing their previous albums “Liquid Seasons” and
“The Tides Have Turned”, you'll immediately realise that Sacrifist has moved from
strength to strength. The outcome clearly shows what happens when 5 musicians come
together, bringing along their passion for music. The quality of the recording, as well as
the unique technique and composition of the album, shows that a vast amount of effort
and hard work was put into “The Well of Sacrifice”. I'll happily give a rating of 5 out of
5 stars for effort and professionalism, and a 9/10 for the Album.
Laermbelaestigung
http://www.laermbelaestigung.net/mag/reviews/reviews.php?&letter=S
Da haben wir wieder mal ein feines Stückchen Stahl, das uns die Südafrikaner von
SACRIFIST zum Fraß vorwerfen. Die fünf vom Kap servieren uns mit „The Well Of
Sacrifice“ ein erstklassiges und melodisches Death Metal Album, bei dem sich Melodie
und Härte die Waage halten. Die zehn Stücke des Werks leben von der ausgesprochen
vielseitigen, ausgefeilten und erstklassigen Gitarrenarbeit der Axtmänner, allen voran
Lead Gitarrist Byron Myers. Die Leads und Solis haben Hand und Fuß und wissen zu
begeistern, ja reißen einen mit. Man könnte schon sagen die Tracks haben dadurch
einen leicht progressiven Einschlag. Jedoch sind die Stücke jederzeit nachvollziehbar,
eingängig und gehen gut ab. Dass schwedische Death/Thrash Bands einen ziemlichen
Einfluss auf das Quintett ausgeübt haben, kann wohl nicht geleugnet werden, denn
unüberhörbar siedelt sich das Material in diesem Dunstkreis an. Auch schimmern
dezente SLAYER Einsprengsel bei Riffing immer wieder durch wie z. B. bei „Dark
Angel“. Der Track „One Day“ lässt bei mir, aufgrund der stilistisch ähnlichen
Vorgehensweise, Erinnerung an alte CEMETARY (zu „Godless Beauty“ Zeiten) wach
werden. Stücke wie „Beyond Time I Stand“, „Cadence“ (cooler Refrain), das flotte
Titelstück „The Well Of Sacrifice“ oder das schnelle, bereits erwähnte „Dark Angel“
machen einfach nur Spaß, da das Material wirklich Spielfreude vermittelt und auch den
nötigen Drive und die Klasse besitzt. Die Produktion das Albums ist sauber, klar und
dennoch druckvoll ausgefallen. Mit ihrem zweiten Longplayer haben die Südafrikaner
eine sehr solide Scheibe abgeliefert und Fans von melodischen Death Metal sollten hier
durchaus einmal reinhören. Eine Kuriosität am Rande: Schlagzeuger der Band ist ein
gewisser Michael Kiefer, seines Zeichens ein Verwandter der deutschen Schauspielerin
Dorkas Kiefer. Na wenn das kein gutes Omen ist?
6
Liquid Seasons
In Music We Trust
Reviewer: Jeb Branin
Deep in its dark core this is a metal album but there are so many other layers wrapped
around that core that it would be a misnomer to try and dismiss it that easily. There
are elements of black metal shrieks and dark metal melancholy. Doom metal is evident
in the lyrical themes and the complexity of the songs brings to mind progressive metal.
But metal is at the heart of it all and is the sum of its many parts. "Liquid Seasons" is
also a classy album from start to finish. Intelligent and poetic lyrics, highly melodic
even at its heaviest (and it is plenty heavy), and layout and packaging that can only be
described as artistic all contribute to the class of SACRIFIST. Hailing from South Africa,
it won't be long until the rest of the world takes note of this band due to the strength of
this 14 track goldmine. It has everything it needs, including stellar production, to
appeal to a broad spectrum of metal fans. The only liability with the entire project is
that it is a limited edition of 500 copies. Some other label needs to step up to the plate
and license this disc before it is allowed to fade away.
December
2000
Metal Rules
Released:
Rating:
Reviewer: EvilG
1999,
X-Plosive
Records
4.0/5
Name a metal band from South Africa....can you? Maybe if you're lucky you can think
of one or two but for those of us here in North America it's hard. Well now you can say
you've at least HEARD OF a band from South Africa and they are SACRIFIST! I was very
impressed with this CD from the sound to the musicianship to the songwriting talent.
The style of metal is diverse, ranging from the melancholy depths of Paradise Lost to a
looser thrashing version of Carcass. The vocals are somewhat black metalish with a
touch of Carcass. The music is ALL melodic with excellent guitar phrasings, clean
guitars and harmonies. The drumming is also something of interest, especially on my
favorite track on here "Last Embrace Part 2 - Winter's Grace" where there are some
very neat fills happening. There's also some very cool bass lines in "Last Embrace Part
1 - Frozen" which sound like they were tapped out. These two songs are what really
grabbed my attention when I first skimmed through this CD. As I've listened to this
album more and more, I come back to these two songs still as being what I really like
about this band. The CD's opening track "Forever Remains" is also one of the strong
points with it's savage vocals yet melodic chunky riffing. The upbeat section in "Liquid
Seasons Part 2 - The Waters of Life" has an In Flames influence without being the least
bit derivative. As you've noticed many of the songs on here represent parts. I'm not
sure
why
they
did
that,
but
it
works.
If you like older Paradise Lost, Sentenced and Carcass then the mixture of those bands
that these guys deliver along with their own style will knock you cold! At the time of
writing, the band are working on their new CD and I look forward to hearing it!
Apparently this four-piece band replaced two of it's members since Liquid Seasons was
recorded. No doubt this will have a great impact on the next album. Lets hope it's for
the better.
7
Members
Personal Biographies
8
Sammy F. Simegi
Guitarist and founding member of Sacrifist
Since I can remember I loved music more than the average Joe... it started when I
was toddler, I always use to sing and make up tunes, also really loved singing to
whatever tickled my fancy whether I was alone or with anybody. My father was not
really one for pop music or any form thereof in which music was created for
anything less than the love of it… He was into classical music and I guess by saying
that he did not like the norm was indeed true.
My mother was the musician, she used to compose and perform for all who were
interested in what she did. As you can imagine I was always interested in what she
did after all “mother is the word for God on the heart and lips of all children”.
She never forced anything musically on me and in truth it was me who asked her to
teach me the basic principals of music. How to compose, what elements should be
involved, the mood you want the specific song to be created in. Basically taught me
how to listen, which I must admit was not really easy at the time!
This musical experience kind of died down during the later stages of primary school.
I was really very involved with sports and did not really pay to much attention to
creating music in any form and it went on until I reached 15. I started getting into
the 80’s rock bands like Motley Crue, Iron Maiden, and still an all time favorite of
mine WASP. At first I wanted to become a vocalist but I fell so in love with the
almighty sound of the electric guitar. I begged my parents to buy me my first guitar
and I got it. It was probably the biggest piece of shit but it meant so much to me.
Later in my 15th year I met a girl called AXE who used to live in the same town as
me. She introduced me to one of heavy metal’s most influential bands – Metallica!
Axe and I ended being good friends and spent a lot of time together sharing our
love for music. She was also a composer and a brilliant vocalist and when I say
brilliant I mean soprano like you do not hear about in SA. I decided to let go of the
vocal dream because it was obviously very hard to compete with someone like Axe
even as a mentor!
9
I decided to pursue guitar playing, but I knew VERY little about guitars. Axe taught
me the basics and the rest is history. I started learning things for myself and always
tried to keep my mother’s advice at heart.
Axe went on to get a record deal with Inhouse records and thus her dream of
playing in a band came true. At Inhouse records she met a guitar player named
Paul Verster. They got married a while later and Paul and I started to jam together
He introduced me to Michael Kiefer. Paul was a great influence on me and jamming
with him has taught me a lot about playing. Sacrifist was born!
We started writing new material together and soon we had 2 two songs completely
done. When I look back what we did I keep thinking “Did we write that shit”! But
everything has a beginning. I surely had the knack for composing songs but it was
not always easy… Still is not always easy…
I remember a picture of Blackie Lawless where he was playing a BC Rich Warlock
and that was it for me. I really wanted a guitar like that But seeing that we live in
South Africa, it was almost an impossible object to get hold of UNLESS you had
about R15000/R20000. Hello, TOMS Music shop! I think at one stage most guitar
players in South Africa played the Ibanez brand which could be purchased at TOMS
as this was only guitar readily available in Johannesburg. I got myself one and it
really was not bad to jam on BUT I could not help thinking about owning a Warlock!
So when traveling to the UK on a job assignment I purchased my first BC Rich. Yes,
God Save The Queen!
Today, I am the proud owner of three Warlocks and will continue to purchase more
It’s a disease but I don’t need no doctor or cure!
Sammy’s Equipment:
BC Rich NJ Series
Jim Dunlop 3mm Stubby plectrums
BOSS GT6 Guitar Processor.
KUSTOM Amplification.
Shure PG14 Wireless System.
Didario 13 gauge strings.
Coffin Cases
10
Michael Kiefer
Drummer and founding member of Sacrifist
At about the age of 8 was I think the first time I started to understand where music
comes from, and that people actually create it. By blowing horns or pulling horse
hair across a stringed thingy, I later found out to be a violin and not a guitar, and
the piano to my mom’s dismay was also one of my favorite work-out instruments.
At this age I realized that I wanted to play drums. I remember it was a very
conscious decision. I am not sure if it was based on any facts whatsoever or merely
passion, but then again what it music without passion? Everyone asked me, ‘why
drums? Rather the guitar, or sing’, sing? me?! Not a chance!
It does not make sense to be a singer or a guitarist over a drummer simply to be in
front, to be more in the lime-light. You do what you do because you love it, it’s that
simply. Don’t fake it! This I learnt from my dad.
Musicians my dad never understood. He used to say ‘how is it that a man who sings
and prances around on stage can make so much money, and the person who lets
say performed the first heart transplant, who effectively had a much larger more
significant long term effect on the worlds population, gets merely a fraction of the
recognition of the other?” I suppose it does really not make sense, but how many
things in today’s world do actually make sense?
It must have taken about two years of nagging, but eventually it paid off. On my
10th birthday I got my first kit. A four piece Premier kit, a 20” Zildjian Earth ride
which I still use today, live and in studio, and a set of hi-hats. I must admit that I
was a little sad in that I did not get the monster that Nico McBrain played, but still
it fluffed feathers. I think this was the start of something the entire neighborhood
will never forget. I can almost describe my technique as total catastrophe. A
butcher at the chopping block had more grace and finesse, and my rhythm was
virtually non-existent.
I don’t think I actually wanted to go for lessons but it was probably a case of my
mom thinking ’this poor kid desperately needs help.’, and so started a seemingly
endless search for a tutor. I realized very soon that I was right, with music you
need passion! And this is the golden rule at all levels, if you are the teacher or the
learner, without it you music is lifeless.
11
I must have gone to half a dozen teachers over a period of about two years without
having learnt much. Let’s say by now I was on par with the butcher.
Pat Higgins was the next and my drum teacher for years to come. If I could
compare him to an old Japanese master, who knew everything and who had the
wisdom and patience required to teach the art of drumming, this was him. He also
had passion, and plenty of it!
I know now why it did not work with the earlier teachers. With some there seemed
to be no feeling or emotion behind what they did. Others had that same passion but
we did not ‘click’. I think it was at this stage that I learnt, to make a band a lasting
success, you need even more than passion for what you as an individual are doing.
Each member needs an almost blinding desire to be able to do what they do and to
do to the best of their abilities, and each member also needs to be psychologically
compatible with each other, to be a family. In later years I probably got together
with about 2 dozen different people in an attempt to get a band going before
Sacrifist was formed.
I spent the following few years learning jazz. This was by far not my preferred style
but nobody told me it was jazz, so I didn’t know any better. You crawl before you
walk, before you can run. I did not need the monster of Nico to learn how to play.
Drumming is all about teaching you hands and feet to work independently. Speed
can come fairly quickly, but technique is a long road. I remember countless times
hitting myself with the stick across my arms or legs in rage because a simply piece
that was given to me seemed to be undo-able. Looking back there is only one cure.
Slow right down, get it right, and speed will come automatically.
I think probably only after about four years of tuition, did Pat ask, ‘so what music
do you like? What style would you like to play?’ And so began the pounding of my
metal career.
It was time to upgrade. This time a 7 piece Premier, with two added Cymbals
-heaven!
I continued with lessons until the age of 18, when Pat moved, and sadly we lost
contact.
What my lessons also taught me was that you need to experiment. Not only with
what you play, but how you play, what size and make of sticks you use, the
cymbals you use. Everything has got some connection with your individual
personality. I have tried Meinl, Paiste, and Zildjian cymbals of various sizes, sticks
of various shapes and weights, bass drum beaters of various designs, skins from
various manufacturers, drum and cymbal position of various layouts, with and
without shoes, drunk or not, almost every conceivable variation I could think of. I
can honestly say when I play, either live, in studio or at the band room, I am very
comfortable and relaxed, and it helps. I must mention, I do not drink (even only
one beer) before a session, may it be a live performance or at the band room, it
just does not work for me!
12
Michael's Equipment (some present and some soon to be):
22” Bass with Tama Iron Cobra Dbl bass pedal
10”, 12”, 14”,16” Rack toms (possibly 2x 8” effect toms)
18”, 20” Floor toms
All toms with Remo Pin stripe skins
14”x 5.5” Copper Snare, Remo Ambassador skin
14” x 6.5” Maple Snare, Remo Ambassador skin
14” Paiste Hi-Hats
14” Zildjian A Custom – Z Combo Hi-Hats
12” Zildjian K Custom Splash
18” Zildjian A Custom Projection Crash
18” Zildjian A Custom Fast Crash
18” Zildjian A Custom Medium Crash
19” Zildjian A Custom Medium Crash1
20” Zildjian K Custom Ping Ride
20” Zildjian Earth Ride
18“ Paiste Signature China
20” Zildjian A Custom China
Ahead 5A & Vater - Los Angelos. Both Nylon tip sticks. Various others from time to
time to add variety.
I like the sound an feel of heavy sounding toms, thus my leaning towards such
sizes. With regards to Cymbals, I have found the A Customs’ to be exactly what I
am looking for. The clarity and crispness of Zildjian’s A Customs is very musical,
without the harshness (besides for the Projection crash). However Paiste’s signature
series are also extremely clear and defined. For me the Zilgjian’s simply last longer.
A very important piece of equipment that I think is so often overlooked, or
underrated is the drum throne (for those who don’t know – the stool). A crap stool
will make you play crap. They move around when you don’t want them to, and then
the relaxed state is no longer. This does affect your abilities. I use the Tama double
braced Wide Rider.
Another piece of equipment I recently acquired is a set of Shure wireless in-ear
monitors. It makes such a difference when you can actually hear what you are
doing. I was surprisingly shocked when I first tried them, and I realized how out of
time my kick actually was when we played live. That was an eye-opener! Besides
helping me to hear exactly what I want, my ears are not taking the punishment
they used to. All these little things help me to relax and really enjoy what I do.
At the end of it all, isn’t enjoyment what it is all about?
13
Shaun Moseley
Bass player and lyricist of Sacrifist
My love for music started at a very young age. I would often lay in bed playing my
music through my head phones, I would get lost in the fantasy of being on
stage, making and playing music. There could be nothing I wanted more in life. My
brother bought a six string guitar one day. I sat and listened to him for hours. He
would often let me play but I must admit, he made it look a lot easier.
It was only years later that I had actually got a guitar of my own. It was a Bass
guitar with 4 strings and "yes" I can count past 4. The story of how I got my first
bass is actually interesting. I used to walk home from high school and on my route
home I would want to walk past this old music shop. Every single day I would go in
and visit my beautiful bass guitar that was hanging on the wall there. The first time
I picked her up and played her I knew I was to be a bass player. The strong, deep,
powerful sound mixed with the most beautiful body you could ever lay your eyes on
was going to be mine. But I had no money. As it was, my little bit of pocket money
would never be enough to support monthly payments and beer, so I would have to
make a plan somehow. My brother could see that I really wanted the bass but at
the same time my grades were awful. He came up with a plan on how I could finally
get my bass guitar. The deal would be, he would buy the bass and all I had to do
was work hard at school and if I did well I wouldn't have to pay him back but if I
didn't then I would have to pay every cent back. Anyway I ended up failing school
that year, I still don't remember how I failed but it happened. I blame all the beer I
suppose.
We were all very much into the punk scene at that stage and so we decided to start
a punk band called B.O.D. (it stood for "Block Out Destruction" or better yet "Beer
Over
Dose").
We had a gig lined up with a few punk bands down in Durban but my father
thought I was too young to go. I decided I would run away to Durban for the
weekend, do the gig and then come back and deal with the punishment afterwards.
Let's face it, it would be so worth it but the band fell apart before the gig in Durban
happened.
Then a few years later we started another band called "Dementia" but it had the
same outcome as B.O.D. We had a few gigs but nothing huge. After a long while of
putting up shit happening in the band, I needed a break from things. I put my bass
down for a few years.
14
Years later I received a phone call from a friend asking me to join "Sacrifist". I could
not believe my ears. I said yes but when it became time for me to go meet the rest
of the guys I chickened out. Anyway it was only after I realized that I had said "no"
to Sacrifist it hit me, I thought to myself "Shaun you are such an idiot". I phoned
my
friend
back
and
told
her
"I'll
do
it!".
There was a stage when I was becoming very frustrated with my bass playing; it
felt like I was not advancing as fast as I would liked to have, so I went for tuition. I
joined Raymond Johnston and then a year later I joined the "Campus of performing
arts".
In terms of writing lyrics, it all just comes naturally to me. I love writing lyrics.
When we were recording "The Well of Sacrifice" we had a few problems with our ex
vocalist and all the lyrics. So Byron and I rewrote all the lyrics in just 2 days. We
were impressed with what we came up with in such a short time.
I have never looked back since joining Sacrifist. I have a special feeling about this
brotherhood that I’m involved in. It's not just another band, it's my family!
Shauns Equpiment
Ibanez SR700 4 string bass
BC Rich Warlock NJ series 5 string bass
Wireless system
15
Byron Myers
Lead guitarist and lyricist of Sacrifist
I take my playing techniques from a vast array of guitarists. There are so many
awesomely talented guys out there. Steve Vai for example…. Wow he is truly a
master when it comes to technique. I have referenced him on a few things such as
his tapping. Of course his teacher Mr Joe Satriani’s speed is a precision through
and through.
The boys of Maiden are my personal best. These guys have probably been the most
influential band in my life. I remember wondering in to my sister’s room at the
tender age of about 8, and being totally in awe of what lay before me. 100’s upon
100’s of METAL posters, flags, LP’s, badges…. Grim Reaper Blackie Lawless! But the
one thing that stood out for me… Mr Edward the great. From that day on everything
I drew was Maiden. My school books were littered with Eddie, I don’t actually think
you could find any work in there. But who cares? School sucked, Metal Ruled, its
true – my school bag said so.
My father played for a band in Liverpool back in the 60’s ( EARL Royce and the
Olympics) alongside the likes of the Beatles, Jerry and the Pacemakers. After a brief
dose of success they eventually packed it in. Years later my family immigrated to
South Africa and my father left the music behind.
He did however buy a cheap Meyer or Maya or something acoustic guitar that
“insolently I still possess”, and my sister would bash away on it if the urge arose.
Not liking the idea of a steel string guitar she took a pair of scissors to it insisting
that she wanted a nylon stringed guitar. This however did not work and the poor
thing lay dormant for years to come. My father decided one day to restring it and
thus I learned to play my first chord. I think it was an e-minor! I bashed away
with a few mates for a few years, writing stoner tunes that completely pissed off the
neighbours, not that we cared! We were Rock stars!
After a few years of that I decided to get myself an electric. So off to the pawnshop
I went where I bought the coolest guitar ever, a R400 Ryan home made piece of
shit! This thing was so bad that the fret spacings were out, the neck was warped
and the bloody thing did not stay in tune for more than 2 minutes.
What a GREAT guitar! I bashed away on that again for another year, this time with
an amp that I had picked up from a mate, which I jammed so loud that I blew it a
couple of times trying to compete with the drums.
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My father passed away in April ’95 in a car accident, I was 15 years old and not
sure how to handle it, and so I started checking out the club scene. Wow what an
eye opener! I began getting exposure to proper Metal bands, guys who knew what
they were doing when it came to thrashing their guitars and beating the crap into
their drums whilst the vocals gutted their way into your soul. This was it man! I
remember going to watch a band that my mates were raving about at a club in
town. That band was Sacrifist. Man I was impressed! These guys kicked ass. I
never for one moment had the idea that my destiny lay before me!
I decided that lessons were the next logical choice and went to a teacher by the
name of Neil Pash. He took one look at my guitar and suggested I seriously
consider an upgrade. So off to the guitar shop I went, intent on buying a “starter
pack” guitar and amp set. Blow that idea, for what lay before me was the type of
shit you see your idols playing. After perusing for about 5 hours drooling, I
managed to locate a guitar within budget. A beautiful bleached purple Samick
equipped with a Floyd Rose system. My teacher who was relieved to see the ass end
of my Ryan, set the new baby up and off we went. After learning a bit I became
inquisitive. What the hell was Steve Vai doing that sounded so great, how did
Randy Roads pull off such amazing solos. What was this sweeping thing Joe was
doing? All these questions, I needed answers.
I asked Neil to show me things like tapping and harmonics. And I was bitten by the
lead guitarist bug. I wanted more. And who better to get me on track than Neil. He
is a truly amazing guitarist, nothing escaped him, ask and it shall be given unto
you!
I began playing for a few cover bands. The first I joined was a band called The
Alleged. I then moved on to playing here and there with this one and that until I
eventually decided to start my own project Dream State. We played various pubs
and clubs but after some time we all started to go our different ways.
There I was once again, guitar in hand with no-one to jam with!
One day I got a call from Shaun who was now playing with Sacrifist. I had known
Shaun for many years, so he was asked to give me the call. He asked me if I
fancied playing for Sacrifist and I said cool man. And the rest is history!
Although they played a different style of metal to what I had been playing, I had
committed to this so there was no way I could let these guys down – especially
since they were planning on going into studio in a few months time to record The
Well of Sacrifice.So I applied myself and 2 months later we were in studio. I
pressed on and did my thing, and lo and behold the album was done. And here
were are preparing for the next phase of Sacrifist and getting ready to record the
next album.
This has been one of the greatest achievements
of my life, especially the close relationships
I have developed with everyone involved with
Sacrifist. This is a close family and it is going
to take one hell of an explosion to blow us out of
the water! Thanks guys. Keep it METAL!
Byrons Equipiment
B.C.Rich and Ibanez guitars
Cuton and Peavey Amps
Zoom Digital pedals
Morley wha.
Excalibur Cables
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Dwayne Carmichael Coetzee
Vocalist and lyricist of Sacrifist
I started playing guitar at the age of 16 when my parents bought me my very first
guitar. It wasn’t the best on the market but for me it was heaven in material form.
I played for about 2 years and joined my very first band – Lemuel. It was mostly a
cover band, playing songs from Nirvana, Metallica, Megadeth with a couple of our
own songs. We played our first gig for a bunch of friends at a party in the garage,
and I immediately knew that this was what I was made for, the bug bit me and bit
me hard!! Unfortunately the band broke up soon after the death of our guitarist’s
brother, also a very dear friend to me. I still miss his presence to this day.
For about a year I was just messing around with projects, until I met a few people
and started the band – Silence. We played only original songs, influenced by bands
like Sound Garden, Alice in Chains and Metallica . We even had a cello player. But
this band also didn’t last long.
This gave way to yet another band – Serpent Moon. This was also the very first
band where I played live, in front of 100 people at “Tequila Sunrise” At this time I
was so influenced by bands like Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, Agathodaimon and
Satyricon, our music was purely Melodic Black Metal, a style I hold dear up to this
day. We had a good following of fans and played at various venues. Released a
Demo “ Past Ages in Shadows” But before the band could hit it off, politics and
tension saw the end to it all.
Three members of Serpent Moon including me joined Funeral God. The original
sound of the band was Metal. By this time I was also a backing vocalist and had
experience with the mic.
Funeral God, had a huge following, but again just as we were heading somewhere,
the bassist/vocalist had other plans in life and quit. We were 2 weeks away from a
major gig, this left us with no choice but to throw me in the deep end and carry on
doing vocals as well. My very first gig as frontman at Zeplins was a nerve wracking
experience, but in the end, the band decided that I’d be permanent vocals. This was
also the end of our sound, as we decided to concentrate more on the Black Metal
than Purely Death. The band released an EP “Human Failure”, and at this time
Sacrifist asked me to help them out with vocals on their forthcoming album “Well of
Sacrifice” as the current vocalist could not perform in the studio. Unfortunately yet
another part of my dream was shattered when politics got the better of us and I left
Funeral God.
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Then Sammy phoned me up, asking me if I would become the permanent vocalist
for Sacrifist. It took me 2 days to decide and I threw all care to the wind and went
for it.
I joined Sacrifist in March 2006 and it’s the best choice I’ve ever made in my life,
they only needed a vocalist, so I had to put down my guitar and concentrate
completely on vocals.
I have a habit of tapping my feet which is for me plays vital part in keeping track of
the tempo of a song
My vocals range from very low growls to high pitched screaming screeching.
My guitar influences come from Gian – Cradle of Filth, Silenoz – Dimmu Borgir,
John Saffer – Iced Earth, Kirk Hammet – Metallica, Satyr – Satyricon
My vocal inspiration comes from Shagrath – Dimmu Borgir, Satyr – Satyricon, Dani
Filth – Cradle of Filth, Peter Tagtgren – Hypocrisy
Dwaynes Equipment
Shure Mics – there is no explanation needed
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Some Interviews with SacriFist
Music Maker Magazine Online Interview:
March 2007
Illustrate in words your ‘Sound’
We have a very melodic heavy sound with good instrumental work and gripping vocals.
Heavy, hard hitting, with gutwrenching lows and mindblowing highs! Intelligent,
melodic powerful metal music.
Influences
Our influences vary from Slayer, Arch enemy, In Flames, Hypocrisy and Pain to Iron
Maiden, Metallica, W.A.S.P., Cult, van Halen and Judas Priest. Ultimately, everything
that life has to offer can be turned into some form of music….
Best and/or Worst gig
We look at a gig and define how much fun we had. This greatly determines if the gig
was good or bad. We have had many gigs that were really fun. However Mutherfudd
2007 has definitely been the best so far. Simply because everything was organised so
very, very well, and the sound was excellent!
We had a really bad gig at The Winston in Durban, and a gig at Bugsy’s which was
similar to shark shit at the bottom of the ocean. At Vagabonds Byron tripped over an
amp and broke 2 ribs, so that was not a good one either!
Highs and Lows of life as a Rock Star
Rock Stars? We don’t really think of ourselves that way! We are normal people in a
band. Some days are good and some not so good. When we play a good gig and our
fans enjoy what we do, that is always a high. The sheer excitement of watching kids
thrash their heads about to our music causes adrenalin to pump. Not really many lows.
If you allow people to bring you down then it’s your own fault.
Favourite Venue
Blue moon in Nelspruit is a very, very cool place to stay for a weekend gig and it has
great acoustics,and Tempo’s is a great venue too, but it would really be unfair to name
just a few. All venues in this country which cater for live metal and rock should be
praised!
Favourite Radio DJ’s
Phil Wright and Barney Simon. Unfortunately most DJ’s get told what to do, when to do
it and for how long, so those who do their own thing are to be admired!
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Favourite Local and International Artists
International:
Slayer, Arch Enemy, Iron Maiden, Metallica (up to Load), Judas Priest, Hypocrisy, In
Flames, W.A.S.P, so many….
Local:
Mind Assault, Deity’s Muse, Agro … also too many to mention!
What would you like to see more of in Music Maker
Shaun: Catherine Zeta Jones…mmmmmm.
Mike: Pictures, because I can’t read. LOL
Sammy: More exposure for local Heavy Metal and Hard Rock Bands
Byron: Metal!
Dwayne: More reference to metal bands and equipment
Message to the fans or advice for upcoming bands
For the fans:
THANK YOU!! Sacrifist is nothing without YOU!! You’ve stood by us through thick
and thin! You are the stars!!!
For upcoming bands:
Don’t forget the reason why you started playing, it was and is for the love of music.
Don’t fake it, and always love what you do! Or is it, do what you love.
NEVER give up and take no shit!
Keep it metal and the rest will fall into place!
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Magazin.darkness
February 2007
Bitte gib uns eine kurze Zusammenfassung der Biographie. Wie habt ihr
euch zum Beispiel kennen gelernt?
Ganz kurz, ich kenne Sammy für ungefähr 15 Jahre und wir spielen auch schon seit
15 Jahren zusammen, wir haben uns durch Schulfreunde kennen gelernt. Shaun
und Byron kenne ich auch schon seit meiner Schulzeit. Wir haben uns alle durch
Freunde kennen gelernt, so haben wir dann auch Dwayne kennen gelernt.
Welche Ziele habt ihr mit der Band SACRIFIST?
Wir haben alle den Traum eines Tages von unserer Musik leben zu können. Wir
könnten jeden Tag auf der Bühne vor tausenden von Menschen performen. Hier in
Süd Afrika ist die Heavy Metal Szene jedoch sehr klein, daher müssen wir alle
jobben.
Was sind eure Vorbilder und was eure Einflüsse?
Ich glaube wir haben sehr viele Einflüsse musikalisch gesehen, alles von WASP,
IRON MAIDEN, METALLICA, COB, HYPOCRISY, IN FLAMES, CRADLE OF FILTH…und
natürlich beeinflussen uns noch die täglichen Geschehnisse hier in Süd Afrika.
Vorbilder haben wir so gesehen nicht, wir spielen Musik weil es uns Spaß machen
und die spielen wir für unserer Fans.
Ich hatte eigentlich erwartet das auch Dunkelhäutige in einer Band aus
Südafrika spielen? Woran liegt es?
Nein. Bei uns ist kein dunkelhäutiger in der Band. Das liegt daran das unserer
Schulen getrennt sind. Die Dunkelhäutigen gingen zu anderen Schulen als die nicht
so Dunkelhäutigen. Es wird noch viele Jahre dauern bis die Schulen gemischt sind.
Wie kamst du eigentlich nach Afrika?
Unsere Eltern kamen nach Süd Afrika, daher sind wir alle hier geboren.
Was arbeitet ihr hauptberuflich?
Ich und Sammy arbeiten in der IT Branche, Shaun, Byron und Dwayne sind Grafik
Designer.
Könntest du uns bitte die Themen der Lyrics erläutern?
Ok, das letzte Album „The Well Of Scarfice“ hat viele Themen. „Unforgiven Insanity“
ist über einen Verrückten, „Troubled Minds“ geht über Menschen die vor einem nett
sind und dan hinterher über die Leute lästern. Da Sammy seine Eltern 2003
verloren hat geht „One Day“ über Menschen zu verlieren die man liebt.
Süd Afrika soll ja nicht das sozial ruhigste Land sein. Wie ist die Situation
für die Bewohner wie dich und wie sind deine Erfahrungen mit diesen
„Unruhen“?
Darüber kann ich 100 Seiten schreiben, nur soviel Süd Afrika ist ein schönes Land
aber die Unruhen….sie sind ein sehr großes Problem.
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Mir wurde gesagt das du Deutscher bist, daher gehe ich jetzt einfach mal
davon aus das du auch schon mal in Deutschland warst. Ist Süd Afrika
sozusagen
dein
Traumwohnort?
Wie ist es den von Afrika nach Deutschland zu kommen? Was sind da deine
Haupteindrücke bezügliche der Unterschiede?
Ich bin schon viele Länder bereist geschätzt so 20 verschiedene. Ich war ungefähr
schon 10 Mal in Deutschland und jedes Mal ist es sehr schön. Nur meine Mutter ist
in Süd Afrika, der Rest der Familie lebt in Deutschland. Süd Afrika ist eigentlich ein
sehr schönes Land, gutes Wetter…aber ich würde niemandem empfehlen nach Süd
Afrika zu ziehen. Es ist nur für den Urlaub geeignet.
Wie kommt eure Musik bei euren Fans an? Wie sind die Reaktionen wenn
ihr Live spielt?
Ich persönlich, denke, dass wir live sehr gut sind, weil wir jedes mal super
ankommen. Wir sind sehr aktiv auf der Bühne und die Fans mögen es.
Gibt es eine große Metal Szene in Süd Afrika?
Nein sie ist sehr klein, darum werden wir bald in Europa und Amerika touren.
Ich denke mal es gibt bei euch da unten sicher auch diverse afrikanische
Folksmusik gefällt euch so was? Hab ihr vielleicht sogar vor irgendwann
mal diese Elemente mit in eure Musik zu nehmen oder haltet ihr an den
alten metallischen Klängen fest?
Wir lieben Metal!
Was sind die Pläne für Sacrifist? Ich glaube ihr plant eine Tour die euch
nach Europa und sogar nach Deutschland führt.
Als erstes: Spaß haben! Es gibt immer Leute denen unserer Musik nicht gefällt, aber
solange wir spaß haben ist alles in Ordnung. Ja wir sind dabei ein Tour nach Europa
(und ganz sicher auch Deutschland) und Amerika zu planen. Unserer DestucTour,
letztes Jahr war sehr erfolgreich und wir planen ab jetzt für jedes Jahr eine
DestrucTour.
Wir sind jetzt von Januar bis März im Studio für unser neues Album, aber ich kann
dir nicht mehr dazu sagen.
Vielen Dank für das Interview ich hoffe ich sehe euch mal in Deutschland
auf Tour. Ich freu mich schon drauf.
Nein, ich danke dir. Wir sehen uns sicher in Deutschland
Laura Burkhardt
http://magazin.darkness.de/kategorien/interviews/
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Metal Observer
July 2006
Below is an interview with SACRIFIST, one of the most prominent Metal bands in
the tiny South African scene. Musically the band plays Melodic Metal with Thrash
and Progressive touches. The interview was conducted via e-mail, and the band’s
founder member and guitarist Sammy F. Simegi answered the questions. Read on if
you want to find out a bit more about this band and its comings and goings. Also
try to pick up their “Well Of Sacrifice” album, as it is one great listen from
beginning to end! Enjoy.
Hail! How are ye today?
Hey Neil, very well thank you!
First, please provide a brief background of the band.
SACRIFIST started in 1993, basically just a bunch of “normal” guys wanting to
make music and having as much fun in the process!
What caused you to be a musician, and why a Metal one specifically?
Since I was a child, I kind of enjoyed music that was different and I always had this
dream of playing the most powerful instrument (guitar)! My parents bought me my
first one and that was the start of something that I would probably treasure for the
rest of my life! Why Metal you ask. Do I really have to explain it?
Please name some of your most important influences.
I would have to say Blackie Lawless and WASP, IN FLAMES, HYPOCRISY, SLAYER, to
name but a few… There are just so many great bands out there…
What do you associate the following with: BLACK SABBATH, LARS ULRICH,
MEXICO, SLAYER, BLACK METAL, POLITICS, GRINDCORE?
Black Sabbath: Legends
Lars Ulrich: Funny person (but I respect what they
accomplished)
MEXICO: Chilies!
SLAYER: Sheer intensity
Black Metal: Never got into it
Politics: THE DEVIL! Especially if you live in South Africa!
Grindcore: ?????
(METALLICA)
have
If SACRIFIST ever makes it “big” in the international scene where would
you love to play live (name the strangest, most exotic place you can think
of, e.g. in Nepal…hehe)
In Nepal ! No really anywhere outside South Africa would be awesome!
How have you experienced being a Metalhead/band member in a country
that is not really receptive to this style of music?
Funny enough, people here are slowly but surely getting into harder music which is
of course a great thing for local bands…
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Do you think the underground is thriving at the moment, or do you feel that
its influence is declining? Why?
The “underground” will always thrive; it has been like that since the beginning? I
personally believe that it can only get better!
Please assemble your “dream Metal band” (can’t include yourself..hehe)
Drums = Daniel Erlandsson (ARCH ENEMY)
Guitar = Jesper Strömblad (IN FLAMES)
Guitar = Björn Gelotte (IN FLAMES)
Steve Harris = (IRON MAIDEN)
Peter Tägtgren (The one and only HYPOCRISY)
It has been out for a while now, but how has the Metal buying public been
receiving SACRIFIST’s latest album ‘The Well Of Sacrifice’?
To be very honest we were quite shocked at how well it was received and it’s still
doing great… Keeping in mind that we only sell in South Africa. As you know we lost
Charl Du Plessis which was a great loss but we also gained Dwayne Coetzee as our
new front man, - Dwayne did the vocals on “The Well of Sacrifice”. So it worked out
VERY nicely for us all. So we have started working on a new album and we just
cannot wait to get it out there because we are really excited about the new
material!
What are the band’s plans for the future? When can we expect new
material from the band?
We are planning to enter the studio next year and probably release the album over
the festive season. That’s the plan but you never really know!
Please name your top 5 most underrated and overrated bands of all time
Blind Guardian (In SA there aren’t many fans).
WASP
Bolt Thrower (I LOVE what these guys do. They are really unique.)
Dark Tranquility
Ensiferum
Do you listen to any other kinds of music? Which styles, and can you
recommend any good bands that aren’t necessarily Metal in sound/style?
Yes and no, Metal is really my first and only love! Music like SEETHER, DEITY’S
MUSE (SA band) stuff like that?
What has Metal taught you in life?
True freedom and friendship with my band mates!
Apart from music how do you keep yourself busy? What do you do for a
living?
I am in the IT industry, Software Development, Shaun, Byron and Dwayne are
graphic designers and Michael is involved setting up computer networks
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Please name some of your favorite SA Metal bands (past and present)
I would really have say all of them, simply because they tried so hard, I don’t think
people outside South Africa understand how hard it is to actually keep a band going
here, and thus I salute them all!
What was the last album you heard that really blew your mind and
reaffirmed your love for this great thing called Heavy Fuckin’ Metal?
The new ARCH ENEMY and the new IN FLAMES
If you could resurrect one band from the past, no matter how big they were
or not, which band would it be?
INSURRECTION (SA band). Truly one of the greatest Metal bands of its time!
Well that’s it! Thanks a lot for taking time out to do this interview! One last
question: If ARCH ENEMY, IN FLAMES, DARK TRANQUILLITY, THE HAUNTED
and OPETH were involved in a hardcore battle to the death who do you
think would be the last band standing? Cheers mate!
Thank you VERY much for this I know that the rest of the band will appreciate it A
LOT! As for the battle, Fuck I don’t know, ahh fuck it - I reckon IN FLAMES!
Interviewer: Neil
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Interview with E-Music Reviews
Interviewer: Chase
Thank you for taking time to answer our questions. Are interviews a new thing for you
guys or have you had your practice?
Firstly, thank you for the interview... hmm I wouldn't say that we are professionals when it comes
to interviews but yeah we've had our share..
So are you guys an oddity, or is South Africa teeming with melodic metal bands such as
yourselves?
Hell fucking yeah we're an oddity! LOL We also have great bands of different genres out here
which makes our “smaller” metal scene quite unique and way more accessible than anywhere
else in the world. .
Do you have any plans on touring in the states anytime soon?
YES, but before we can do that we have to get our new album out which would is due during
February 2008, but after the release we are looking to tour extensively and also to wherever we
possibly could play… We have quite a few fans in the states and also in most parts of Europe so
we will probably end up touring your country way sooner than expected which would of course be
fucking AWESOME.
Who or what would you say are your main influences both musically and lyrically?
Lyrically… Oh man we would have to say that it ranges from real life shit to fantasy but mostly
real life… Trust me living in this country gives a person great ideas for lyrics J
Musically… Everybody in the band has their own influences but we all appreciate the next band
member’s poison and yeah it really comes together.
It’s says at the bottom of your website’s bio page that you guys, “proudly play South
African metal.” Would you mind explaining to us the difference between American and
South African metal?
Firstly production.. I don’t think we, in this lovely country called South Africa have the studios that
the states possesses therefore already we sound different…
In terms of song writing I think that bands in SA are on the same level as a lot of bands in the
states and also in Europe… Therefore I think that when you put on a SacriFist album and then
listen to an American band you will clearly hear a difference between the two in terms of
recording and even song writing… I think we sound a bit different and I guess it’s a good thing…
If you could put together a dream tour, who would it be with?
Oh god we love this question!
Sammy would like to tour with W.A.S.P. Hypocrisy and In Flames , Mind Assault (SA).
Michael would like to tour with Iron Maiden, Scorpions, Mind Assault (SA).
Shaun would like to tour with the almighty Slayer , Mind Assault (SA).
Byron would most defiantly tour with Iron Maiden, W.A.S.P, Mind Assault (SA).
Dwayne would like to tour with Cradle of Filth, Hypocrisy , Mind Assault (SA).
OH AND SO MANY MORE!
Now where exactly did you guys come up with the name SacriFist? Paul Verster our ex lead guitarist and founding member read a book while still in college where
he came across the name “SacriFist” he mentioned the name to Michael, I agreed and that was
it…
How do SacriFist fans in America differ from SacriFist fans in South Africa?
I don’t really think there is much difference between the fans I mean they are all EXTREMELY
loyal and they are one of the reasons why the band keeps pushing forward in other words they
fucking rule end of story!?
Is this the lamest interview you’ve had to endure?
LOL We are quite happy to say that we have never had any of those… We are very grateful for
every bit of exposure we get!
Is there anything you’d like to add that I may have missed?
HELL YEAH Heavy metal is one of man’s greatest achievements! We will keep it going for as
long as this life allows it!
Thank you for your time and keep on a-rockin’!
NO! THANK YOU!
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Band Photos
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29
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Information
Email:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Telephone number:
Michael:
+2782 895 7262
Sammy:
+2784 500 7606
Website: www.sacrifist.com
MySpace: www.myspace.com/sacrifistband
Newsletter: [email protected]
PO Box 146600
Bracken Gardens
Alberton
South Africa
1452
Distribution:
Subterania
Alter Ego Records
Online Merchandise Sales:
www.Subterania.co.za
www.rebelrock.com`
Online Reviews:
http://www.twilight-x.com
http://www.bassplayers.co.za
http://www.inmusicwetrust.com
http://www.metal-rules.com
http://www.zazone.com
http://www.tabs.co.za
Online Interviews:
http://www.metal-observer.com
http://magazin.darkness.de
http://www.zazone.com
Other:
www.sadrummer.com – Michael Kiefer profiled
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