{"id":44634,"date":"2025-06-27T15:04:33","date_gmt":"2025-06-27T13:04:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/?p=44634"},"modified":"2025-06-23T15:19:45","modified_gmt":"2025-06-23T13:19:45","slug":"armed-with-harmony","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/blog\/2025\/06\/27\/armed-with-harmony\/","title":{"rendered":"Armed with harmony"},"content":{"rendered":"

Local folk-rock duo Suits of Armour unveil their heartfelt new single and spread soulful vibes this July.<\/p>\n

South Africa\u2019s music scene continues to shine with fresh talent, and few acts channel its emotional depth quite like Suits of Armour. The folk-rock duo, made up of Hillcrest musos Melanie Nash and James Robertson, has just released their new single, Inside Our Pockets. While the track is already resonating with listeners, it\u2019s clear this pair brings more than just melodies. They bring heart.<\/p>\n

Formed in 2023, Suits of Armour blends folk, rock and country with raw, honest storytelling. Their music is like a well-worn denim jacket – rugged, comforting and full of tales. Inside Our Pockets is a character-driven duet inspired by legends like Fleetwood Mac and The Civil Wars, but with a distinct local flair.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s about two broke, deadbeat people from different worlds,\u201d says Melanie. \u201cThey find peace simply being together. It\u2019s a reminder that happiness doesn\u2019t come from things –\u00a0 it comes from connection.\u201d<\/p>\n

The track features finger-picked acoustic guitar, warm harmonies, and a Southern-tinged rhythm that evokes the intimacy of a fireside conversation. It was born during a countryside session, Mel started riffing, James joined in, and the song found its shape.<\/p>\n

\"\"\u201cIt just came alive,\u201d James recalls. \u201cThe lyrics and feel fell into place naturally.\u201d<\/p>\n

And while you might imagine these writing sessions involve tea or coffee, the pair laughs. \u201cRed wine\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Melanie, a vocal coach and experienced performer, has been part of the South African music scene since her 2011 solo debut. Inspired by her mother and icons like Cat Stevens, her songwriting is emotional and rooted in storytelling. James, meanwhile, has notched a No 1 hit on 5FM and once opened for Bryan Adams. His rock background and instinctive lyrics give the duo\u2019s sound its punch.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d known each other for years, having crossed paths through mutual connections. The spark came from a shared love of songwriting and a desire to create something meaningful. \u201cWe respect each other musically,\u201d they say. \u201cThat mutual respect helps us push boundaries and find our best work.\u201d<\/p>\n

Their name, Suits of Armour, reflects the emotional contrast in their music.<\/p>\n

\u201cLike a soldier in battle, performing your own songs makes you feel strong but exposed,\u201d they explain.<\/p>\n

Beyond music, they\u2019re also passionate about giving back. On Saturday, July 26, they\u2019ll perform at the Ngoje Trail Run fundraiser at Brocklee Dam in Eshowe – an event that raises funds for Holy Childhood School.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe both enjoy trail running,\u201d they say, \u201cand this event supports a cause close to our hearts – giving children access to quality education.\u201d The day includes 5km, 10km and 24km routes, live music and a community-centred atmosphere.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s proof that music can uplift, inspire and bring people together, no matter their background.\u201d<\/p>\n

Suits of Armour has played some unforgettable venues, from the glow of the Oyster Box lighthouse to the top floor of Elangeni Hotel with its sweeping ocean views.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s hard to beat that mix of atmosphere and sound,\u201d James says.<\/p>\n

Spend a few minutes with this duo and it\u2019s clear they don\u2019t take themselves too seriously, even as their music delves into emotional truths. When asked what\u2019s always in their pockets, their answer is refreshingly human: \u201cXXX Mints, guitar picks\u2026 and a hole.\u201d As for early mornings? \u201cWe\u2019re both night owls. No early birds here!\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"Their dream is to take their sound to Nashville. \u201cIt\u2019s the heart of country-folk and we\u2019d love to perform there one day.\u201d<\/p>\n

For now, though, they\u2019re focused on live gigs, writing songs that matter, and staying grounded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSongwriting is our therapy,\u201d they say. \u201cIt\u2019s how we process life. It\u2019s our blueprint.\u201d When challenges arise, they turn to their music. \u201cWe love being different. Struggles help us grow. They make us stronger.\u201d<\/p>\n

To aspiring artists, they offer this advice – \u201cWork on your craft daily. Accept feedback. Be authentic. And save your money – instruments, recording, and touring all cost more than you think.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ultimately, Suits of Armour makes music as a form of healing, for themselves and for others. \u201cOne song can trigger a thousand different memories for a thousand different people,\u201d they reflect. \u201cThat\u2019s the power of music.\u201d<\/p>\n

Whether you see them at a local market, trail run or on your favourite playlist, keep your ears on Suits of Armour. Their harmonies are moving, and their message is even more powerful.<\/p>\n

Details:<\/strong> Listen to Inside Our Pockets now on all streaming platforms. Follow Suits of Armour on IG: @suits_of_armour | FB: suitsofarmourmusic | YouTube: @SuitsOfArmour<\/p>\n

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Catch them live this month at:<\/strong><\/p>\n