Skinflint, who hail from Botswana, just wrapped up an American tour with Soulfly in support of their latest album Baloi that was released last month. We caught up with vocalist/guitarist Giuseppe Sbrana, who fills us in on the album, tour, the challenges of being an African metal band and other topics.
Chad Bowar: Was there anything unique about the songwriting process for Baloi compared to your previous albums?
Giuseppe Sbrana: It was more spontaneous. Recorded and composed much quicker, too. We spent very little time on it because we were happy with how raw and DIY it sounded.
What will be your strongest memory of the recording of the album?
Visiting the regions where the songs tales were inspired by and getting a feel of the nature surrounding those areas and tales. Then coming into the studio and bringinging them to life!
What was the biggest challenge in its creation?
We had to strike the right balance to sound old school but also fresh at the same time. It is a very difficult thing to achieve. Because what is done, has been done, and if you go too far on either side, you are just copying trends. We didn’t want to be a band that copies anyone. We want to be inspired, but never copy trends. It’s important we keep an identity that people can instantly recognize. Otherwise, there is no point in making music for us.
How has your sound evolved from Hate Spell?
This album is shorter, more agressive and direct than Hate Spell.
What inspired the album title?
Baloi is the Setswana term for Witches.
What lyrical topics do you cover on this one?
They are mostly from oral tradition told from the motherland, especially our country Botswana. I will cover some here: “Lentswe la Baratani” means Lovers Hill. Two lovers who were forbidden to marry by the tribes, escaped together up the hill. They disappeared mysteriously. Some believe the hill to be haunted by the two lovers. Some believe there is a giant serpent up the hill. If you look at the album artwork, the hill at the back there with the snake is Lentswe la Baratani.
“Sangoma Blood Magic” is about Sangomas, which can be healers. But not all are healers, some are dangerous, and practice the dark arts such as witchcraft. The song leans on the latter types. “Kishi” is a two faced man/hyena that seduces victims and then devours them. You see him on the front of the artwork. There is also a lot of tales of chameleons, which is also on the artwork. In “Ritual War” the chameleon comes down the hill to bring news to the tribes, that war is about to begin.
What has the response to the album been like so far?
It’s been great, especially playing it live to fans on tour. This album works very well live. We are happy with the response.
How was the video shoot for “Sangoma Blood Magic”?
It was really fun for all of us.
What have been some of the highlights of your Soulfly tour?
It’s our first time visiting the south of the U.S. Seeing new places, traveling, meeting new people and playing to fans have been the highlights.
What do you enjoy most about playing in the U.S.?
The U.S. is huge and there is so much to see and experience. In addition, the fans have been very supportive of us here and we are eternally grateful for that. We enjoy giving them the best every night.
What barriers do you face being based in Botswana that American and European bands may not have to deal with?
Lack of venues and promoters who are willing to book metal. Distances are very far, and travel expenses are insane for bands coming all the way from Botswana. We have to do everything ourselves, build our own studio, our own PA system, stage, literally everything and the scene is much smaller. It’s so much harder for us. But we are also aware that these hardships have brought us the most joy. Because our fans here in Botswana are some of the most passionate and when we tour abroad, you can see that we appreciate every moment on stage. We appreciate the simple things of life much more. We are very simple people and when you have a background like us, you always remember where you came from and the hardships. In a way, it keeps you humble, makes you respect suffering and that’s important.
How has the metal scene in Botswana and Africa in general changed and grown in your nearly 20 years as a band?
It has not grown much to be honest. The scene is small. But we do what we do and are proud of our fans and scene here.
What’s the biggest misconception about African metal?
I don’t think there is any misconceptions. But I do feel it is criminally underrated and overlooked. There are some incredibly talented bands in Africa.
What are some of your non-musical interests and hobbies?
Spending time in nature, reading, writing, tabletop roleplaying games, low budget exploitation films and spending time with my dog Ares and partner Laura.
Anything else you’d like to mention or promote?
I would like to thank you for supporting African Metal!
(interview published November 12, 2024)
Watch Skinflint – “Sangoma Blood Magic” Video
