Australian rock band, Hands Like Houses, are going to tour South Africa in March this year and guitarist Alex Pearson, had a chat with Potchefstroom Herald regarding the upcoming tour, thier new album and what SA fans can expect from the tour.

1.Hi guys, congratulations on a superb fourth album, “Anon.” Really liked the production and overall sound of the album. How has the reaction to it been on tour?

It’s been getting such a great reaction and huge support as we start playing more and more of the songs live! It’s nice to see people singing along such a spread of favorites not just focusing on one song

2. “Anon” was made with the intention to relate to people with a number of various topics. Do you feel that music should first and foremost be relatable? How has the band’s song writing evolved over time?

I think a huge part of songwriting and especially with lyrics is telling a story or explaining a feeling and this has to be easy to digest. As we’ve recorded more songs and focused in on this I think people have been able to really connect with what we’re saying. After you’ve record four albums you start to see a pattern of what people enjoy but also become more comfortable and confident in who you are as an artist/band

3. It made my heart happy to hear that you guys are coming to South Africa in March. Has it always been a must visit spot for Hands Like Houses? What is your knowledge of South Africa and its music scene in general?

Hahaha our knowledge is pretty Limited really but when we were presented with the opportunity we were over the moon!! We all love traveling and it’s such a wonderful experience being able to combine that with music as well!

4. What do you like to do as a band when visiting new countries and places? Do you have a list of things you would like to do whilst in South Africa?

We love trying new foods and experiencing different cultures to what we get in Australia. Fortunately we have the ultimate guide in Craig from JamPacked productions and he has been so generous with booking so many activities it’s actually shaping up to be the trip of a lifetime!

5. One of the main aims of JamPacked Productions on the SA Tour is to aid Rhino Conservation in South Africa. What are your knowledge on rhino conservation and what is your opinion regarding using music events to generate funding for worthwhile causes? 

We’ve had some knowledge from news articles and Craig has given us even more to get on top of as well but I think it’s a great avenue to raise awareness with. Music can be such a powerful tool of communication and understanding so to use it for something like conservation work is perfect. A few of us have been to Kenya in 2015 to the ‘Save the Elephants’ conservation and it was really eye opening so we’re looking forward to this being an equally educational experience

6. South Africa has a very passionate fan base and have waited long to see Hands Like Houses live. What do you bring to the live environment as a band that distinguishes you from other acts in your genre?

I think we’re really laid back and approachable. We’ve been to shows like everyone who already has tickets and watched bands we looked up to perform and I feel like the more grounded and engaging you are with the audience the more enjoyable it is for both us and the people who’ve come along. I’m so excited to hear everyone singing our songs back, crowd surfing and having a good time all the way across the other side of the world!

7. You have toured extensively as a band, what would you pick as your favourite cities or countries to tour in and why?

Australia is always a top favourite with Melbourne taking our heart! It always feels like a second home for us and the shows are crazy!! After that Manchester, London, New York, Boston and Philly are magnificent. Honestly the list could be endless we’re really grateful for everyone that comes to see us!

8. How has the music scene changed in Australia since you’ve started and what are you most proud of in the past decade as a band?

I think the Australia scene has always had a very high standard and won’t accept any gimmicks so in order to gain any recognition you have to be authentic and hardworking. I think that’s what makes Australia bands so hard working, genuine and thankful!

9. Can fans expect a mix of old and new track on the set list come March? How do you balance out your set list?

A set list balance is one of the hardest parts of preparing for a tour – honestly we’ll be trying to mix it up as much as possible between the album but we’re so excited about releasing ANON so there will be a fair bit of that!

10. As a band from Canberra, what three things that are quintessentially rooted in your upbringing that South African fans might be aware of?

I think Australia and South Africa both have a real love of animals and the land. I also think from all accounts we are both very friendly cultures and nations, hopefully meaning we both like to have a quiet beer and soak up the atmosphere! We can’t wait to get over there thank you so much for having us.

Facebook Events::
2 March – Hands Like Houses Live in Cape Town 2019
8 March – Hands Like Houses Live in JHB 2019 
9 March – Hands Like Houses Live in PTA 2019

Get tickets for the shows here: