You thought we were dead.
Think again,
A sneak peak into your favourite new music festival with that old Winston spirit, showcasing local talent in the music and art scene, created by the crew who ran The Winston Pub for 10+ Years.
THE TALENT
The Sisters
The Sisters is a Cape Town psych-rock powerhouse, known for intense, hypnotic soundscapes that pull listeners into a raw, immersive experience. With gritty riffs and swirling energy, they’re redefining the local scene and always leave the crowd mesmerized.
Abahambayo
Abahambayo is a vibrant live band blending Maskandi, Marabi, Afrojazz, and Zulu storytelling to celebrate South Africa’s rich heritage. Through soulful rhythms and powerful narratives, they craft a truly unique soundscape that honors tradition while resonating with modern audiences.
**Mooklion**
**Mooklion** is an esteemed graffiti artist from Durban, renowned for his bold, intricate murals and unique artistic vision. With a style that fuses traditional graffiti elements with contemporary influences, Mooklion’s work transforms urban spaces into vibrant masterpieces. A key figure in the South African street art scene, his pieces reflect a deep connection to culture, community, and creativity, making him one of the most respected names in the street art scene.
DJ BLK OUT
DJ BLK OUT is Durban’s ultimate party starter, renowned for her ability to spin only the tracks you love. With an ear for the perfect blend of genres and an infectious energy, she knows exactly how to keep the dance floor alive. Whether it’s a local event or a major festival, DJ BLK OUT brings the beats and knows how to party.
Lex LeFoy
Lex LaFoy, a celebrated pioneer in South African hip-hop and hailed as “Durban’s First Lady” by Nataal Magazine. Her impressive career includes selection for Red Bull Bass Camp (2013), a nomination in the inaugural South African Hip Hop Awards (2013), and a 15-show tour across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland with the Purple Velvet All-Female Hip Hop Tour (2014), solidifying her influence both on and off the stage.
The Office Koki Club
The Office Koki Club is a captivating two-piece indie folk duo from Durban, South Africa. They were first branded as The Office Koki Club in 2022, with Amber McDonald on vocals and keyboard/guitar and Kai Ramsay on guitar. Amber and Kai complement each other beautifully, painting mesmerising landscapes of texture and feeling with their honest, raw sound every time they perform.
The Kill
The Kill is a high-energy, three-piece grunge-rock band from Durban, blending the raw spirit of 90s grunge with punk-rock twists. Formed in 2017 as an acoustic duo, they’ve since evolved into a powerhouse trio, with members Roth Baney (Guitar/Vocals), Chase Drewett (Bass/Vocals), and Seth Heeger-Parker (Drums). Drawing from their roots in South Africa’s hardcore and metal scenes, The Kill creates a gritty yet melodic sound filled with catchy riffs, harmonies, and songs that explore the highs and lows of love and heartbreak.
Bob Perfect
Bob Perfect is a comedian, DJ, podcaster, and recovering scene kid who has contributed extensively to the Durban creative scene with his website Durban Is Yours, his events company Heat City Nights, and more recently with The Almost Perfect Podcast. Bob spent more nights than he can remember DJing at The Winston Pub so he knows exactly what songs to play to get your Chucks, Docs, and Vans squeaking on the dancefloor.
Barron Harley Band
Barron Harley is an alternative rock musician and songwriter from Durban. Having spent over a decade fronting punk band Hated Related, Barron Harley Band is his current live outfit. Bringing together influences of punk rock, post-punk, folk rock and emo, Barron’s songwriting is at the core of this three (sometimes four) piece band. Joined by Gary Bedingfield on bass and backing vocals, Tal Saville on drums, Barron Harley Band is what critics are calling “yeah not bad” and “who is that”
Your Cynical Sanity
Your Cynical Sanity is Durban’s relentless deathcore force, bringing crushing breakdowns, intense riffs, and raw aggression to every performance. Known for their fierce energy and unapologetic sound, they’ve become a staple in the local metal scene, delivering shows that leave audiences both shaken and electrified.
Imperious Vision
Imperious Vision is a relentless death metal quintet combining the best of modern and classic death metal. The lineup features Deven Phillips on vocals, Kai Stewart and Blake Merchant on guitars, Nathan McKillop on bass, and Brynn Huxtable on drums. Their debut album, Empire of Illusion, released in 2020, garnered both national and international acclaim. Now recording their second album, Imperious Vision continues to redefine the limits of extreme metal with their intense, boundary-pushing sound.
Qhawelentombi
Qhawelentombi is a versatile artist, she is a musician, theater actress, storyteller, facilitator, and writer of songs and stage plays. Known for her R&B and Afro-pop music, she began producing in 2010 with Scelo Gowane. Her acting skills flourished under Jerry Pooe at Wushwini Art Centre, and she further developed her storytelling expertise with Gcinamasiko Heritage Trust under Dr. Gcina Mhlophe.
Early Bird
Standard Winston Festival Ticket
Early Bird + Festival Shirt
Ticket + Festival Shirt
“At least we’re brave enough to go out and do what we want, rather than just sit back and be passive observers.”