As the stage lights at The Blue Room dimmed, the audience held its breath and the announcement echoed through the room… DreamEATER had won the On The Bill Studios competition!
The Cape Town-based band stood out among a lineup of incredible talent, captivating the judges and the audience. DreamEATER, who draws influence from soft rock, indie folk and delta blues, took the opportunity to showcase their unique style during the competition. Their vibrant stage presence and heartfelt performances struck a chord with everyone present. We caught up with them to chat about their journey and what lies ahead for this dynamic band.
A moment of recognition
Reflecting on the win, drummer Callula Jane Clay-Smith shares the emotional journey leading to this milestone:
“When we were announced as the winner, it felt like all of that effort was finally recognised. It gave such a sense of validation for what we’ve been trying to do,” Clay-Smith says. “This band is something so precious to all of us. It gives us a space to explore our instruments and creativity with friends who are nothing but supportive.”
For DreamEATER, the competition wasn’t just about performing but about connecting. From the judges to the audience, the band’s music resonated deeply. “Having that vulnerability received with such love and enthusiasm is probably the most encouraging, uplifting and validating feeling I’ve ever felt,” Callula adds.
Defining a unique sound
DreamEATER’s sound is hard to pin down – and that’s precisely the point. Bassist Jared Gordon explains the band’s approach to creating music: “Everybody in the band has a diverse blend of influences and musical styles we grew up playing as individuals. Together, all our vibes are oddly different yet similar. That blending of eclectic influences will always deliver something unique and tough to describe.”
While Gordon jokingly considers DreamEATER a funk band, their music explores various genres, delivering something fresh yet familiar.
Energy that sparks connection
When it comes to performing, DreamEATER doesn’t overthink it. Guitarist and vocalist Dave Glover describes their approach to engaging audiences:
“…Audiences are like sharks. They can sniff out the smallest drop of blood in the water as soon as the performers become self-aware or stale,” Glover says. “The trick is to remember that you and the audience want the same thing. We all want to melt away and experience the magic of a performance that makes us forget parts of ourselves.”
Glover adds that DreamEATER’s high-energy shows reflect their passion for creating music that makes people move.
A stage filled with talent
DreamEATER’s victory came after an incredibly competitive event featuring some of the finest up-and-coming talent the Mother City offers. The finalists – Unathi Mahlalela, Rendani Mufamadi, Kelsey Paige, JazzyFeeling and Ziev Kzanksky – each delivered unforgettable performances that showcased their unique artistry and energy. From soulful ballads to theatrical acts, these artists demonstrated the depth of talent in the local music scene.
“Ziev captivated the audience with a theatrical performance that left everyone in awe. Rendani impressed as an excellent entertainer, seamlessly blending singing and rapping. Unathi stood out as a phenomenal vocalist with the rare ability to create songs on the spot. Kelsey delivered a stunning performance with her beautiful voice, showing loads of potential,” shares On the Bill CEO Jody Abel.
“There’s so much potential in general, and we still intend on harnessing this talent to see how we can book these artists for our network of restaurants and venues,” Abel adds. “The finalists are cool, they look the part, and their sound is amazing. Their professionalism really blew us away.”
This competition was a celebration of musical diversity and a vital platform to uncover and support exceptional talent. On The Bill looks forward to seeing each finalist’s journey unfold and helping them take the next steps in their promising careers.
What’s next for DreamEATER?
Winning the competition comes with a coveted prize: a recording session at On The Bill Studios. Vocalist and percussionist Alex Collett shares their vision for the upcoming track:
“Our vision is to record a song that is representative of our band aesthetic and to have it sound as organic as possible. We want our listeners to feel like they are there with us, as if they are hearing us live.”
For DreamEATER, the journey is just beginning. Saxophonist and flutist Aidan Macleod Reynolds hints at exciting plans. “It’s been such a crazy year since starting the band in February. The number of amazing opportunities that have popped up has been incredible. We’ve already gigged with a few of the big bands in Cape Town, at iconic venues like the Brass Bell, Armchair and Trenchtown.”
Beyond live shows, DreamEATER recently recorded their own ‘teeny desk’ concert and teased potential merchandise in the pipeline. “Keep an eye out for the name DreamEATER,” Macleod Reynolds urges. “Even for us, it’s been insane to keep up with how quickly things happen and develop.”
A community effort
DreamEATER’s win wasn’t just about the band. It was about the people who supported them every step of the way. From the judges and the audience at The Blue Room to their growing fanbase, the band acknowledges the collective effort that brought them this far.
As Clay-Smith explains, “Music is not something you can do alone. This community of people we’ve found through this entire competition is the reason we do what we do in the first place. People want to hear our music, and as long as they do, we’re going to keep playing.”
With their undeniable talent, infectious energy, and commitment to creating music that resonates, DreamEATER is poised to make waves across Mzanzi and beyond.
For more information or bookings contact us or email hello@onthebill.co.za.
