Seether to bring ‘The Surface Seems So Far’ tour to Cedar Rapids
Seether is a rock band consisting of frontman Shaun Morgan and bassist Dale Stewart, who relocated from South Africa to the United States in 2002, unaware of the successful musical journey that awaited them. Their iconic tracks have gained them recognition in front of massive arena crowds, leading to multiple gold and platinum albums produced by renowned figures in the hard-rock music scene. Their latest album, “The Surface Seems So Far,” marks a return to their early days of do-it-yourself music-making in Johannesburg. Stewart shared insights into the creative process they embraced while working on this album, highlighting their freedom in crafting music without external constraints.
The band’s decision to take control of their production process while engaging the expertise of renowned engineer Matt Hyde offered them a newfound sense of creative liberty. Stewart acknowledged their past collaborations with top-tier producers like Howard Benson and Brendan O’Brien, whose guidance played a crucial role in their musical evolution. However, Seether’s approach to this album mirrored the spontaneity and experimentation typical of a garage band, reflecting a fresh chapter in their musical journey.
Stewart praised the album’s second single, “Judas Mind,” for encapsulating the dynamic essence of the album within a single track and emphasized the unique vocal style of Shaun Morgan, reminiscent of Kurt Cobain’s sound rather than Chad Kroeger’s from Nickelback. He acknowledged the band’s early years, shaped by influential artists like Nirvana, who left an indelible mark on Seether’s music.
Reflecting on their journey, Stewart mentioned the band’s musical influences from their high school days, where bands like Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, and Pantera left a lasting impact. His transition to bass guitar in Seether marked a pivotal moment in his music career, triggered by the passion and energy inspired by bands like Metallica and Sepultura. As Seether carved out its unique sound, they quickly garnered a loyal fan base that propelled them into the international music scene.
Despite the challenges of relocating to the United States and navigating a new cultural landscape, Seether’s hunger for success and unparalleled dedication kept them driven. Stewart emphasized their willingness to embrace any opportunity and push through obstacles, a trait that has enabled them to thrive in the ever-evolving music industry. With over two decades of experience, Seether remains committed to sharing their music with audiences worldwide, showcasing a blend of nostalgia from their past and excitement for the future.