OCTOBER XPERIA MASHLAB – ROCKTOBER

Following the announcement of the Xperia Mashlab #ROCKTOBER concept, Sony Mobile is happy to reveal the highly anticipated all-star band that will incorporate some of the best South Africa has to offer. Giving fans the opportunity to vote for their all-star line-up, this unique five piece includes a vocalist, drummer, guitarist, bassist and wildcard that will take Xperia Mashlab to a new level.

This supreme collaboration of prominent SA artists and one fan is lead on vocals by iconic South African rock legend Arno Carstens - releasing albums for over two decades, first as the celebrated front man of Springbok Nude Girls and more recently as successful solo artist. Arno has had over 20 top ten singles, won five South African Music Awards and shared the stage with legends of the music world including U2, The Rolling Stones and REM.

Arno will be joined on drums by the impeccable Jade Neebe. Through the years Jade has become a session artist for Melanie Lowe, Josie Field, The Sick Leaves, Chix with Stix, Broadway Screamer and 1st Project. Jade has been ‘zef’ rapper Jack Parow's live drummer since 2009 and has also just recently become the drummer for Jesse Clegg.

Taking the lead on guitar is master shredder Andre Kriel – founder of one of South Africa’s favourite’s, Black Cat Bones. With a background in blues and known for staggering liver performances, Kriel is all set to stagger Xperia Mashlab audiences.

Franco Schoeman adds flair to the band as the bassist. Franco created a name for himself in the bass scene, resulting in him being made a member in Isochronous. With a National Diploma in Jazz and impressive knowledge of the bass, Franco is sure to be an exceptional addition to the Xperia Mashlab Rocktober band.

Completing our five-piece is fan guitarist Austen Ramsay Lewis as the all-star wildcard. Describing his music as progressive instrumental rock/jazz/blues, Austen won the votes by a near landslide.

The newly founded powerhouse band will be sure to rock your October. Tune into 5FM during Forbes and Fix show Monday to Friday between 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM to catch up on all the latest Xperia Mashlab news and behind the scenes insight on the artists also tune in to get an opportunity to name the band.

For all Xperia Mashlab updates and information, go to www.mashlabmusic.com, or follow Xperia Mashlab on 5fm on Facebook, check the @XperiaMashlab twitter page and #XperiaMashlab hashtag, as well as the @xperia_mashlab Instagram page. You can sign up to the newsletter to keep up to date on all things Xperia Mashlab.