Springbok Nude Girls

Springbok Nude Girls are a South African rock group from Stellenbosch near Cape Town. They are also known as the Nude Girls or the Nudies. Their music combines rock with alternative, ska and sonic metal, and also draws on jazz and acoustic influences.

History and formation

The band forms in the early 1990s and plays its first major concert in September 1994 in Stellenbosch to a full house. It takes its name from the glamour models featured on compilation album covers for the former South African radio station Springbok Radio. The image is linked to the more conservative social climate of 1950s South Africa.

They emerge during a period of change in post-apartheid South Africa and gain a reputation as one of the country’s most notable new rock acts. They tour extensively internationally, although their strongest popularity remains in South Africa.

Style and influence

The group is known for bringing punk, ska and metal elements into South African alternative rock. It becomes widely recognised in South African households and has a significant influence on the country’s music scene. A radio poll on 5FM names them the best South African rock band.

Albums and releases

The band’s releases include Neanderthal 1, a raw and minimally produced debut; Afterlifesatisfaction, which moves toward a more international sound and contains several hits; Surpass the Powers, often described as the group’s most acclaimed and polished album; and Relaxzor, a heavier and faster record.

They also issue several EPs and compilation albums, including The Fat Lady Sings, Goddank Vir Klank 1994 - 2004, and a UK-only release titled Nude Girls. Peace Breaker is released in South Africa and the UK, with the UK version appearing under the shortened name Nude Girls and including additional tracks. Later releases include Apes With Shades, the single Beautiful Evolution, and Partypocalypse.

Awards and related activity

In 2000, the group receives a South African Music Award for Best Rock Album for Surpass the Powers. Lead singer Arno Carstens later pursues a solo career, while the band continues with a changing discography and long-running presence. The listed members are Arno Blumer, Adriaan Brand, Arno Carstens, Theo Crous and Francois Kruger.