PLUM Continue Their Creative Resurgence With New Single, “How The West Was Lost”
PLUM Continue Their Creative Resurgence With New Single, “How The West Was Lost”
(Photographer – Sherene Hustler)
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.
