Caligula’s Horse on upcoming ‘Africa odyssey’

Grey tells Music In Africa that touring Africa was never on their radar, but when the opportunity arose, they jumped at the chance. “It’s not something I ever thought was possible. Our focus has been on our home country of Australia, and expanding to Europe, North America and Latin America. So when the opportunity came our way, we just jumped on it – couldn’t miss out on a one-of-a-kind experience, coming all the way to South Africa to celebrate our music with you guys.”

Caligula’s Horse is anxious and excited to learn and connect with African metal fans, hoping to find common ground through their energetic and celebratory live shows. “We love getting crowds moving and singing along. If that’s something you guys are into, let’s go! I’m looking forward to sharing the stage with local bands and seeing what they’ve been cooking up,” Grey says.

While the logistics of touring South Africa present unique challenges, the band is no stranger to such obstacles. “We’ll likely spend as much time in the air to and from this tour as we will in your country, which is as hilarious as it is painful! We’re absolutely used to these challenges, though – all part of doing what we do.”

Cultural influences and the African metal scene

Caligula’s Horse’s music reflects their Australian cultural background, with a strong sense of community and influence from the local scene. According to Grey, metal music has the power to bridge cultural divides and bring people together. He believes the band’s Australian roots and ‘larrikin Aussie tone’ shine through in their music, which he describes as blending “storytelling and honest emotion” with a “very relaxed and jovial” stage presence. “There are a lot of incredible bands coming from our part of the world with really original sound – could be due to our isolation and us just cooking away in the distance, but there’s definitely an element of community and influence in the Australian scene.”

He says they are not afraid to put storytelling and honest emotion into their music, but “when we take the stage in a new country, we’re reminded of just how Australian we are – relaxed, jovial, and always up for a good time.”

As for the African metal scene, Grey admits he is unfamiliar and is eager to be educated and discover new music. He plans to engage with local fans and artists, seeking out new music recommendations and insights into the cultural landscape. “I’m always seeking new sounds, especially underground music. I stream a programme on Twitch where I play and review music from artists with fewer than 200 listeners on streaming services to try and get some names out there and find some absolute hidden gold.”

He adds: “I’d love to get some music recommendations and feel out what life is like as a muso (musician) there and how you all feel about music culturally.”

Live show expectations

Fans can expect an intense, physical, celebratory, and emotional live show, with a focus on connection and community. “We’re bringing a whole bunch from our new album Charcoal Grace, which is an album we’re truly proud of. Our fans are always incredibly vocal, receptive and welcoming.”

Their project encapsulates the band’s experiences during the pandemic era, with a focus on hope, love, and celebration. “It was a catharsis for us; we thought we had lost everything – our careers, our hopes, and our livelihoods. But there’s still so much to save, and we can do that together.”

With days before the band performs, Caligula’s Horse is poised to share that unifying energy with South African metal fans, and Grey hopes the experience will leave a lasting impression. “We have and always will carry with us a message of peace, love, tolerance and celebration. There was a point in our career where we actively decided not to celebrate darkness or sadness, and even when we write about harder topics and emotions, we want to present a way out, some light and colour. It’s important for us to share that with our audience as well.”