Goldfish. (Credit: Tyler Coplea)
The Evolution of GoldFish: A Unique Musical Journey
For over two decades, the South African duo GoldFish, consisting of Dominic Peters and David Poole, has been carving a niche for themselves in the music industry. Their journey began at the University of Cape Town, where they bonded over their passion for jazz. Now based in San Diego, the duo has melded dance beats with live instrumentation to create a signature sound that resonates with audiences across the globe.
From Jazz Roots to a Unique Fusion
Peters reflects on the evolution of their style: “What works live at the shows doesn’t always translate into repeated listening on an album or single. It’s definitely a double-edged sword sometimes.” Their musical development highlights the importance of live performance. “When we started jamming ideas that eventually became GoldFish, it was the natural progression to take those ideas out of the studio and perform them,” explains Poole.
With the release of their new single “Little Wonder,” featuring Zolani Mahola, GoldFish is once again showcasing their aptitude for collaboration and creative synergy. The trio recorded the track together during Mahola’s visit to San Diego, demonstrating the camaraderie that fuels their creativity.
The Impact of Live Performance
GoldFish’s performances are more than just a showcase of musical talent; they are immersive experiences that connect with their audience. Poole emphasizes, “Many of our songs have actually been sparked from these live improvised moments.” The challenge lies in remembering those fleeting inspirations to develop them into full tracks later. This improvisational nature is exemplified in songs like “Soundtracks & Comebacks,” which originated from a riff that emerged during a live concert.
Signature Elements and Unique Sounds
The band’s sound is characterized by an intriguing blend of genres—jazz-infused house beats mixed with pop hooks. Poole’s saxophone work has become a defining element in several tracks, with past hits such as “Washing Over Me” setting the standard for their energetic performances. Peters articulates their studio philosophy: “The collision of analogue and digital is the X factor for a good sounding record.” Their album Live in Amsterdam embodies spontaneous musical exchanges that set them apart from many contemporaries reliant solely on electronic elements.
A Soundtrack for Every Season
Euphoric warmth permeates GoldFish’s music, evident in titles like their 2023 album, If Summer Was a Sound. With a rich history of oscillating between Cape Town and Ibiza before settling in San Diego, they have embraced a lifestyle of perpetual summer, as Poole explains. Their record label, 33 Degrees, symbolizes this North-South duality, cleverly named after the 33rd parallel where both cities lie.
Engaging with Diverse Influences
Over the years, GoldFish has incorporated darker textures and rock influences into their works. An interpolation of the White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” in their Live in Amsterdam version of “If I Could Find” illustrates their versatility. Their interpretive cover of Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box” further showcases their capability to traverse genres and reinterpret classics, reflecting their own rock roots.
Collaboration with South African Stars
GoldFish recently collaborated with Zakes Bantwini, a celebrated artist who won a Grammy in 2022. Their track “Born A Miracle” draws on the momentum of Bantwini’s triumph, which Peters notes is part of a broader trend of South African artists supporting one another. “It’s great to see the world sit up and take notice of the insane talent that’s always been there,” he says.
A New Creative Philosophy
“Little Wonder” represents a pivotal point in GoldFish’s journey, introducing their “Get Busy Living Vintage” approach—a philosophy that extends beyond mere albums or concerts. Their commitment to performance and live interaction remains unwavering, as Poole affirms, “We love performing and still can’t get enough of it.”
As the duo takes the stage for their upcoming performance at the Toulouse Theatre in New Orleans, they invite fans to join them for a night filled with renewed energy and creativity. Tickets for the event, occurring on April 23 as part of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, are already on sale, signaling yet another chapter in their ever-evolving musical saga.
Explore More with GoldFish
GoldFish’s dynamic journey reverberates across multiple continents, seamlessly blending diverse musical elements while remaining firmly rooted in their South African origins. Their story illustrates the transformative power of music—a force that not only entertains but also brings people together in celebration of culture and creativity.
With their unique approach, the duo continues to innovate and connect, paving the way for a bright future in the music industry.
