Amidst the bustling landscape of alternative indie rock, a new chapter unfolds as The Fismits, hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, unleashes their latest single, 'Halen'. Led by the passionate founder, vocalist, and guitarist Mark Biagio, The Fismits break their silence after their 2020 album ‘Before the Hindsight’ with this new track that bears the weight of untold stories. The Sound Café had an opportunity to chat to Mark Biagio to delve into the genesis of this release and the impassioned journey that drove its eventual release.
Q: 'Halen' marks The Fismits' first release in 4 years. Can you share with us the catalyst behind the decision to break the silence and unveil the track ‘Halen’ to the world?
Mark Biagio: “Everyone has a plan until you get punched in the face”, I believe Mike Tyson said. The plan was never to be silent, but we died. It’s difficult to explain, but in a nutshell, there exists a conflict between the energy that is required to exist as an artist and the energy to simply exist as a person, father, husband, whatever. The conflict in turn consumes more energy. Like Eskom there is only so much energy, so, yes, Fismits output was shed. (Apologies, for non-South African readers, the power producer here, Eskom, has basically collapsed and we get power in intervals or stages, its off and then on, so I could not resist the simile). However, in my studio I kept going. Late in 2023, almost a new year’s resolution, I said the music will return. Halen stuck up its hand.
Q: The Fismits have been characterized by their raw authenticity and unwavering spirit. How does 'Halen' encapsulate the essence of the band's ethos, both musically and thematically?
Mark Biagio: Its simple, to the point and has an attitude. Sometimes we can over complicate, over produce, put lipstick on a pig. I think having to work with someone else’s song forced me to stick to the brief.
Q: As a musician rooted in the South African music scene, how do you see 'Halen' resonating with international audiences, particularly those unfamiliar with the socio-political context that motivated bands like Live Jimi Presley?
Mark Biagio: I don’t know. A good song is a good song and can resonate for many reasons. I don’t necessarily understand, and was definitely not around, when the violence was happening in Ireland in the late 70s and 80s, but I relate to Stiff Little Fingers tracks. Songs need to be interpreted by the listener and enjoyed or disliked. It can be a directly connection, as in “I was there”, or it can be overlayed over your own circumstance, or I can just be a catchy tune. I think, the question is, “is ‘Halen’ a good song?”
Q: 'Halen' carries a sense of urgency and passion, reminiscent of the tumultuous times in which it was conceived. How did the socio-economic climate of 90s South Africa influence the sonic landscape of this track?
Mark Biagio: I don’t think it did in the way you think it did. The original is quite different, it is on YouTube, check it out. I think the urgency and other stuff you mention from my version is probably a fact of it been pre-programmed into me. I am a product of the 80’s/90’s times in South Africa. I think Halen allowed me to “let it out”, a colour by numbers template and I got to colour it in.
Q: In your collaboration with Live Jimi Presley's frontman and your subsequent decision to release 'Halen' in tribute, what role does nostalgia play in shaping the contemporary version of this track?
Mark Biagio: The nostalgia is in the making of it. The memories it invoked. I would hear Marc shout “Harder! Faster!” as I was doing parts. I never set out for it to be nostalgic.
Q: Reflecting on your journey with The Fismits, what have been some of the most defining moments that have shaped your artistic vision and direction, particularly in the creation of 'Halen'?
Mark Biagio: I can honestly say that I don’t know how to answer this. It scares me to think that I am probably clueless. Direction? Artistic vision? Defining moments are really born out of the tough times, those I have. Fismits was born out of frustration of 15 years of failed musical projects. In itself, it can be described as a failed project. However, when I look back at performances, demos or released tracks, I am proud as I know where it came from and the effort it took. I am not embarrassed or wished I could do it another way. It is now what it was then. Its genuine. I think that is what I have learned to do, back myself, my gut and my limited ability and go for it. I did that with Halen.
Q: As The Fismits prepare to reintroduce themselves to the world with 'Halen', what can fans expect from the band in terms of future projects or collaborations?
Mark Biagio: I am always working. New songs are being finished and newer songs and ideas are realising. Right now, the energies are in balance. New tracks will follow Halen and they will be presented and stand on their own. Collaborations, mm, I wonder – there are many that would scare me, but I would give my eye teeth to do. Maybe “Halen” might open a few more conversations. Live shows would be awesome but, I cannot ask my band mates to spend the energy and time in rehearsals when I cannot honour them for their effort. Music can quickly turn from a joy to being an evil. Like a drug addiction that quickly takes all in your quest for single high. I have been there (not the drug addiction bit) and I will therefore guard the joy and ignore the temptation. My days of pounding the pubs at night to get noticed, for now, given the risk, are over.
Q: As an artist driven by passion and purpose, what legacy do you hope to leave behind with 'Halen' and your continued musical journey with The Fismits?
Mark Biagio: Legacy? Really? I think those things are often unintended, but not guaranteed, consequences of doing a good job. How do you evaluate a god job? By being honest with what you got in your hands and what you are doing with it. People will be disappointed in me, but worlds like legacy, purpose, approval are way overrated - you’re better off looking for the gold at end of the rainbow. In my book, ask many others for their opinion, don’t seek their approval, be purposeful in what you do, but don’t seek a purpose. As an older guy this all makes sense to me, sadly a twenty-year-old might freak out. I hope some people enjoy what we do and that will in turn produce more for people to enjoy. In the case of ‘Halen’, it may lead them to discover something they never knew they needed. It’s as simple as that.
In a world where music serves as both a mirror and a beacon of hope, Mark Biagio’s efforts and commitment with 'Halen' stand as a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and unite hearts. Let us join hands in welcoming this sonic masterpiece into the tapestry of our collective consciousness, as we embark on a journey of discovery, passion, and unwavering resilience with The Fismits at the helm.
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