The Parlotones, one of South Africa's most beloved rock bands, continue their fascinating journey into the archives with the release of their latest project, “Forgotten Songs EP 3 - Raw & Unheard”.
This third instalment in their acclaimed “Forgotten Songs" series sees the band sharing an array of previously unreleased tracks and unheard demo recordings that have been carefully unearthed from an extensive collection of old hard drives and CDs.
The band took to Instagram to announce the EP's release, stating: “The Parlotones continue their captivating journey into the past with the release of ‘Forgotten Songs EP 3 – Raw & Unheard’.
"This third EP brings fans a collection of previously unreleased songs and unheard demo tracks, rediscovered from a treasure trove of old hard drives and CDs. Now, these hidden gems are finally making their way to streaming platforms for the first time.”
Among the treasures featured in this collection is “Let’s Start a Fight”, a track recorded in the early 2000s with famed engineer Ludwig Bouwer at One Big Room studio.
Although the band had previously laid down live demos for tracks like “Radio Controlled Robot” and “A World Next Door to Yours” at the same studio, this particular song remained unrecognised until now, finally joining its brethren in the spotlight.
The EP also boasts demo versions of familiar hits such as “Giant Mistake”, “Life Design” and “Bird in Flight”, all of which were similarly recorded at the same studio.
These live demonstrations offer fans a fresh perspective on songs they already know and love, revealing creative trajectories that diverged from their polished album counterparts.
For example, “Bird in Flight” began as a heartfelt, acoustic recording made casually on a couch, later evolving into the more joyful version produced with the help of Theo Crous at Bellville Studios.
Likewise, “Life Design” transitioned remarkably, shifting from a minor to a major key, resulting in the anthemic track known to audiences today.
Adding depth and intrigue to the EP, two recordings from Openroom Productions with Darryl Torr emerge as gems from the making of the band’s well-received album “Stand Like Giants”.
While “Chinese Vase” successfully cut the album, the haunting “Pick Your Poison” found itself omitted, until now, as it finally gained a rightful place in the collection.
Another noteworthy inclusion is “Slow Assassination”, co-written with Jon Savage; a stripped-back piano version featuring Jane Elizabeth, which remained hidden from fans until its release on this nostalgic EP.
With the EP, The Parlotones once again extend an invitation to their dedicated fanbase to explore an unfiltered journey through their past, unveiling the raw and intimate moments that have shaped the tapestry of their musical story.
∎ “Forgotten Songs EP 3 - Raw & Unheard” is out now on all major streaming platforms.