Battersby Unleash New Single & Video “Arrows”, A Stirring Reflection on Growth, Habit, and Letting Go.
South African indie-rock outfit Battersby return with their commanding new single and accompanying video, “Arrows”, a track that captures the band’s signature blend of nostalgic storytelling, heartfelt lyricism, and soaring instrumentation.
Fronted by seasoned songwriter John Battersby, the project brings together a group of accomplished musicians: Marc Klein (Red Tape Riot) on drums, Tristan Bell (BRYNN) on guitar, and CJ Duckitt (Murray) on bass. Since forming, Battersby have built a reputation for their authentic sound and compelling live performances, drawing influence from the likes of The Killers, The War on Drugs, The Black Keys, and classic icons such as Dire Straits, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Fleetwood Mac.
“Arrows” marks a poignant step forward for the band. Born from an unfiltered jam session at Misty Cliffs, a place that has become central to their creative process, the track evolved organically before being refined in their rehearsal space and brought to life in studio.
“Lyrically, Arrows was inspired by recent events, frustrations and realizations in my life,” says John Battersby. “The music came from a completely open jam session at Misty Cliffs. We were just freely experimenting and letting the moment guide us.”
At its core, “Arrows” explores the internal struggle of being held back by old habits and self-imposed limitations. It’s a deeply reflective piece about confronting those barriers and allowing one’s full potential to emerge.
“It’s about keeping yourself trapped in old ways and not allowing the best version of who you are to shine,” Battersby explains. “But it’s also about resilience and how we choose to face tough times and move through them.”
The single was recorded at the legendary Sunset Recording Studios in Stellenbosch, under the guidance of renowned engineer Jurgen von Wechmar, known for his work with Francois van Coke and a wide range of respected South African artists. The result is a polished yet emotionally raw track that captures the band’s dynamic energy and sincerity.
Described in five words as punchy, melancholic, reflective, heartfelt, and surging, “Arrows” encapsulates everything that has made Battersby a standout act on the local circuit.
Over the past two years, the band has toured extensively, performing at some of South Africa’s most respected venues and festivals. Highlights include sharing stages with Prime Circle and Dan Patlansky at Daisy Jones Bar, as well as appearances at Darling Brew Festival, Greyton Beer Festival, and sold-out headline shows at Deus Ex Machina.
With “Arrows”, Battersby continue to cement their place as one of the country’s most compelling indie-rock acts, crafting music that feels both timeless and immediate, inviting listeners to return again and again.
