PLUM returns with their deeply moving new single, Reach Out, accompanied by a haunting and visually striking music video. The release marks a bold and introspective chapter for the band, blending raw emotional honesty with themes of spiritual longing and personal redemption.
Reach Out is a reflective and emotionally charged track that delves into the experience of losing one’s way, confronting past mistakes, and ultimately finding a path back through faith, connection, and surrender. With two voices that mirror one another in confession and support, the song captures a delicate balance between regret and hope. At its core, Reach Out speaks to the power of grace, reminding listeners that even in moments of brokenness, healing and restoration remain possible.
The accompanying music video brings this message to life through a compelling and symbolic narrative. It follows a woman racing to save someone in crisis, moving through fragmented glimpses of what her life could have been. As the story unfolds, a powerful realization emerges, the person she is trying to rescue is herself.
Visually rich and emotionally intense, the video explores themes of inner rescue, self-confrontation, and the tension between despair and healing. It captures the push and pull between isolation and connection, panic and peace, ultimately revealing a universal truth: sometimes the most important person we need to reach is ourselves.
With Reach Out, PLUM offers a poignant reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the enduring possibility of redemption.
Director: James Botha Editor: James Botha Concept: James Botha Camera Technician: James Botha Production Manager: James Botha, Warren Leicher Starring: Nicci Niehaus, Warren Leicher Wardrobe: Nicci Niehaus Studio: Smudge technologies Lighting: The Paris Edit
South African alternative pioneers PLUM continue their forward momentum with How The West Was Lost, a powerful new single that reflects the band’s current creative focus and sharpened artistic vision. The track will be released via Mongrel Records.
Since forming in 1996 PLUM has always operated outside of strict genre lines. Drawing from blues, rock, and funk foundations, the band developed an original sound that blended trip-hop, acid rock, nu-metal, drum & bass, and alternative funk a spirit of experimentation that still underpins their work today.
In February last year, the band released Don’t Stop Believing, their first new music in 17 years, a moment that marked not a revival, but a reset.
Now operating with renewed clarity, original members Kevin and Waz are joined by drummer Ryan Greenwood. The current lineup has been steadily building momentum through focused writing sessions and dynamic live performances that reflect where the band is now confident, direct, and creatively energised.
“How The West Was Lost” is a haunting, genre-blurring meditation on civilisational inertia. Drawing a subtle line between the contemporary West and the decline of ancient Rome, the track reflects on how societies often fail to recognise decay until it has already passed into history. Blending indie sensibilities with sharp, rhythmic social commentary, the song explores the paradox of accelerating change, paired with cultural regression a stark reminder of the necessity of awareness in an age defined by division.
PLUM’s live reputation remains a defining part of their identity, with performances at major South African festivals including Oppikoppi and Praise the Loud Fest forming part of a long-standing connection with local audiences. In their current run of shows, the band is establishing a powerful new presence driven by purpose, cohesion, and a clear creative direction.
Currently working on further new material, PLUM are focused firmly on what lies ahead. With momentum building and something meaningful to say, the band’s latest chapter signals a future defined not by nostalgia, but by intent.
After a 17-year hiatus, legendary South African band Plum is making a triumphant return with their brand-new single, Don’t Stop Believing. This marks their first release since 2005 and signals a bold new era for the iconic group, who have been at the forefront of South Africa’s alternative music scene since 1996.
Originally formed by seasoned musicians Kevin Leicher, Troy Dougans, and Waz Leicher, Plum quickly established themselves as pioneers of an eclectic sound, blending trip-hop, acid rock, nu-metal, drum n bass, and alternative funk. Following the release of their last album, All and Nothing, the band members pursued other musical ventures, collaborating with South African greats such as Arno Carstens, Chris Chameleon, Josie Fields, and Wonderboom. Now, original members Kevin and Waz have reunited, joined by new drummer Ryan Greenwood and longtime sound expert Stevie G, rekindling their unmistakable chemistry and passion for performance.
Don’t Stop Believing is a powerful anthem of hope and self-belief, crafted through the band’s dynamic signature approach to songwriting. “The inspiration came from the excitement of writing new material again, particularly after a few live performances,” says Kevin. “While we never stopped writing individually, collaborating again—especially for Waz and myself—felt both natural and creatively fulfilling. The spark to reignite Plum with a new single, the first of many, has been an exhilarating journey.”
The single carries a deeply resonant message: “It’s about owning where you are today. Each thought generates energy, that energy drives action, and those actions shape the decisions and realities we live in, explains Waz. “It’s easy to get lost in the negativity of unintended outcomes. The message is to stay humble, show up even when imperfect, and hold onto the hope that belief can inspire—because, ultimately, everything will be okay.”
The writing process was deeply collaborative. “The verse, bridge, and concept of the track were initially crafted by me,” Waz shares. “True to form, the song was brought to Kevin during a workshopping session. Kevin began experimenting with chords and chorus ideas, which perfectly aligned with the original concept. Once we had a foundation, we recorded ideas and presented the full track to Ryan. From there, the song evolved, gaining depth and texture. The lyrics were tweaked, the beat refined, and intervals adjusted until the song truly became its own unique entity.”
Recorded between Darkstar Studios and Jazzworx Studio, the track was meticulously produced, mixed, and mastered by Kevin, ensuring every detail shines. “Our creative process thrives at Darkstar Studios, where the track began its journey,” Waz reveals. “Kevin produced Don’t Stop Believing from the ground up. A producer’s role is often misunderstood—they shape every bar, beat, and sonic element, embodying the song from start to finish. Kevin also served as the sound engineer for this track, showcasing his exceptional skill and maturity. Drums and vocals were recorded at Jazzworx to capture a professional level of clarity. We’re immensely grateful to both studios for their expertise and professionalism in bringing this track to life.”
Distributed by Mongrel Records, “Don’t Stop Believing” is just the beginning. Plum has mapped out a strategic plan to release multiple singles throughout the year reigniting their creative momentum and strengthening their bond with both longtime fans and new audiences alike.
With a legacy of unforgettable performances at South Africa’s most iconic festivals—OppiKoppi, Woodstock, Wingerstok, and many more—Plum is once again proving their ability to captivate audiences with their authenticity and energy.
“Show up imperfectly, keep believing.” This five-word mantra perfectly encapsulates the essence of Don’t Stop Believing. With fresh energy, renewed passion, and a relentless drive to create, Plum is back and stronger than ever.
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