Can of Worms
SOUTH AFRICA

Can of Worms SA brings you feisty live music performances - original tunes written and arranged by the group themselves. Music features vocals from charismatic lead singer Kerry Hiles, as well as lyrical lines from April Bosazza on the saxophone and clarinet, and Dalena Mostert on electric violins and keyboard. The sound is driven by Steve Meise on drumkit and djembe, James Mallinson on bass and Dylan Durant on electric guitars. 

 

The band's members all hail from different musical backgrounds and the resulting sound is a fusion of various genres including World Music, Afro-fusion, Pop and Folk Rock. Think Zap Mama, Freshly Ground, and The Waterboys. A refreshing and catchy musical style that you will soon learn to recognise as Can of Worms SA.

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Even if you've never heard the songs before, you'll leave with an ear-worm!

 

Performances are suitable for a range of venues and events including large-scale music and lifestyle festivals, theatre and arts shows and even intimate gatherings. Their performances include interactive elements – you will be invited to sing along, dance, and lose yourself in the music. This cohesive group of musicians present authentic, original South African music for all ages to enjoy.

 

Career Highlights to Date

- Featuring on the 'Legends of the Fen' line up at Splashy Fen Music Festival (2025)

- "Shine On" our 2024 show at the National Arts Festival was awarded a Standard Bank Ovation Award. This show features individual members of the band 'shining' during extended solos and songs featuring particular instruments. The award is special recognition for our original music and authentic performance style. 
- Our show "On the Flip Side" was recognized with a Standard Bank Ovation Award at the 2023 National Arts Festival, for live performances at the Thomas Pringle Hall, monument

- Entertained festival goers at the SAfm Sundowners Free Concert in the foyer of the Monument building in Makhanda, at the National Arts Festival 2023

- Performances on the ECPTA Main Stage at the 2023 Kirkwood Wildsfees Lifestyle Festival, Friday & Saturday

- Our show "Out of the Can" received a Standard Bank Ovation Award at the 2021 National Arts Festival online
- Regional finalists in the AfriMusic Song Contest 2020 with single Titambe

- Self published and released 5 singles to date: Titambe (2020), Funk It & Destiny (2021), Pillow (2022) and Spirit Man - Live (2025). Our singles are available on all major digital distribution channels. 

- Performance at the National Youth Day Celebrations, 16 June 2022, Mthatha Stadium, King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality within the OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, where the President addressed the nation.

- Performance at the Vulture Klub as part of the VryFees 2022, Bloemfontein

- Entertainment at the Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism (ECPTA) opening function of the 2022 SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees.

- Entertainment at the ‘MUCHO LOCO BOS BISTRO’, 2022 SPAR Kirkwood Wildsfees.

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Shout Outs!

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Doc Maclean: "A world class band"

 

Don Clarke: "Can of Worms SA fills the void left by 'Freshly Ground"

 

Michael Kimmings: “Can of Worms SA is another level unique band. South Africa must be exposed to this level of talent.”

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Danny De Whet: "My flabber is ghasted! I was focused on you guys the whole way through the performance."

 

Kerry-anne Allerston: “Very cool”

 

Gary Tait: “…your “sound” is just so unique, and I am convinced that only a bunch of seasoned professionals can put so much originality into those compositions… we enjoyed every second of your shows… well done and thanks to each and every one of you… brilliant”.