Trenton and Free Radical

Trenton and Free Radical

Trenton and Free Radical is a South African Afro-beat and reggae-infused band led by Trenton Birch, with writing collaborator Marco Weilander. The project begins in London and later continues in Cape Town, where Birch returns after developing the group’s sound and lyrics in the UK. The band combines African musical influences with hip-hop and electro elements, and presents a contemporary African sound built around dance rhythms and socially conscious writing.

Formation and members

Birch has roots in African music and a global outlook, while Weilander, who is raised in Ibiza, contributes guitar work, sampling and layered production techniques. Weilander has worked with Roots Manuva and Killa Kella. In its live form, the band also includes bassist Thabo Mobo and drummer Andre Swartz. Mobo has played with Ill Skillz, Archetypes, ShapeShifting and Calabash, and works across hip-hop, funk, jazz and soul house. Swartz has roots in gospel and also works in jazz, rock/ska, hip-hop and hip-hop metal crossover.

Style and themes

The group’s songs deal with war, social injustice, love, Mandela and broader questions about responsibility, awareness and social change. Their music is described through a blend of acoustic, urban and anthem-like elements, with lyrics intended to engage listeners as well as move dance floors. Birch presents the band as African in origin and inspiration, even though it starts in London.

Career background

Before moving to the UK, Birch is active on the South African live scene as a member of electro-rock band Anti-Gravity, which supports South African shows by The Prodigy and Faithless. In Europe, he promotes Johnny Clegg, heads the African hip hop website and label Afrolution, and runs Black Mango Music, the label that helps launch Goldfish internationally. He also founds the community outreach organisation Breathe Sunshine, which raises funds for schools and community centres in needy parts of South Africa.

Recording and collaborators

The group’s debut album, Giant Step, is produced by Dean James and Craigie Dodds and mixed by Gripper. It features guest vocals from Maxi Jazz of Faithless, South African hip-hop MC Ben Sharpa, and Senegalese hip-hop artist and activist Sister Fa, who wins the Freedom to Create Prize. The album gives the project international connections through these collaborations.