Taxi Violence

"Taxi Violence smashed onto the scene as a breath of fresh raw exuberance without the need for any fancy ‘post’ this, or ‘neo’ that or cute little words like ‘alt’ or ‘indie’ necessary to define them. The result is that after seven years together their sound is still a timeless ode to what they do best… rocking out!” – Dave Mac (Muse Magazine)

Taxi Violence was born in September 2004 when best friends Rian Zietsman, Loedi van Renen and Louis Nel invited George van der Spuy to a jam session... at a military base. They played their very first show in March 2005 and the rest, as they say… is history.

Taxi Violence has travelled a long and independent road to proving themselves as one of the best live acts in South Africa. Their sound can be described as blues-infused retro rock with a pinch of sleaze and bourbon for good measure.

Since their inception, Taxi Violence has gone on to rock every significant venue and major festival in South Africa, as well as taking their unique brand of rock and quality live shows abroad.

Taxi Violence has released several recordings:
- Self titled EP (2005)
- Untie Yourself (2006)
- The Turn (2009)
- Unplugged: Long Way From Home (2011)

With their sounds, videos and memorable performances being on high rotation and demand, Taxi Violence’s accolades also include:
- Sharing the stage with 3 Doors Down, Hoobastank, Staind and Evanescence at My Coke Fest 2007.
- Untie Yourself reaching number 4 on 5FM Top 40 (2007).
- Untie Yourself being nominated for a South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Rock Album of 2008.
- Four tracks being playlisted on Fritz Radio (Berlin), while on tour in Germany and Holland (2009).
- Jimi's Revenge being chosen as the theme song for the popular TV show, MAN on SABC (2010).
- Performing at fan parks across South Africa during FIFA World Cup 2010.
- Supporting Australian band, Powderfinger and Canadian band, Billy Talent in Cape Town (2010).
- The Turn music video, directed by Ryan Kruger, winning two awards at Wirral International Film Festival in England. Ryan won ‘Best Director of Music Video 2010’ and Philip Hotz won ‘Vesbin Award for Best Actor 2010’. Ryan has filmed with bands such as Juliet Lewis and the Licks, Black Flag, The Misfits, Slipknot and many more before moving to South Africa in 2008.
- Heads or Tails receiving high rotation on 5FM (2011)