About

I am a journalist. Michael Maurel is a pseudonym that I use to write for publications whose interests conflict directly with those of a media organisation that I already currently work for. Contractually, I am prohibited from writing for other publications, thus the pseudonym.

I have been passionate about music since the start of my teens (1992), and have always wanted a platform on which I could share my views. In early 2006 I was approached by a Johannesburg based newspaper, the Saturday Star*, to critique new music releases for its entertainment section, 48 Hours. This subsequently led to the formation of this blog.

The blog aims to provide visitors with an honest, independent take on new music releases, and live performances, from South Africa and abroad. Furthermore, it will provide some exposure for local musicians and emerging artists. It also facilitates a certain amount of longevity for my work, provides broader reach, and helps to develop my profile.

I am based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

I enjoy many different genres of music, but have a penchant for rock and its various guises.

I am a musician and play the drums, guitar and bass guitar. I occasionally perform with the band Rusty’s Revenge.

Contact me: michaelmaurel [at] gmail dot com

Musicians I highly rate: Dave Matthews Band, Smashing Pumpkins, Springbok Nude Girls, The Beatles, Vusi Mahlasela, The Pixies, Nirvana, Oasis, Steve Vai, Coldplay, Johnny Clegg, Jacques Brel, Pearl Jam, Bob Marley, Miles Davis, Tony Cox, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against the Machine, Kyo, Jimi Hendrix, Tryo, Kaya, Primus.

Artists I have watched perform live and highly recommend: Iron Maiden, Stereophonics, Placebo, Springbok Nude Girls, Smashing Pumpkins, Zwan, Vusi Mahlasela, Johnny Clegg, Tony Cox, Seether, Just Jinjer, Metallica, Lifehouse, Ministry, Audioslave, James, Evanescence, The Prodigy, Stone Sour.

 

* The Saturday Star owns the copyright to all reviews that were originally published in the newspaper and those reviews may not be re-published under any circumstance, unless otherwise credited to The Saturday Star. The newspaper is owned by Independent News & Media. Visit IOL.co.za for more information.