For most rock bands nowadays, the only story worth telling is the one they would rather write themselves. Their tale told is one of hardship and perseverance over difficult odds with a (hopefully) triumphant outcome: a platinum record deal, truckloads of sales, worldwide fame and groupies. That would be nice were it the truth more often. Taxi Violence is a band under no illusion.

Since their inception (fittingly a jam session at a military base in June 2004), they have maintained a steadfastly independent attitude, even turning down a prize record contract with a major record label in their quest to retain artistic freedom and integrity.

For Taxi Violence, “Full effort is full victory”, and somehow they just wouldn’t feel satisfied were it any other way. Keeping their fans close at hand is an integral part of this rock band’s motto.

They realise that whilst such things as radio play, A-list air time and high rotation videos are important tools to furthering a career, they are not the be-all and end-all. Taxi Violence will make it: on their own terms. Looking back on their career thus far, everything they’ve achieved has been as a result of their DIY ethic.

When they appeared on the front cover of the entertainment newspapers in three separate cities under the screamer headline of “The next BIG things!” they knew it was justified (and they didn’t even have to pay anyone to get it!)

Whether on stage or in the studio, Taxi Violence refuses to play a mediocre song. It’s got to blow their minds first, otherwise we won’t hear it. They are a rock band in the true sense of the word.

Taxi Violence is George van der Spuy (vox), Jason Ling (bass), Louis Nel (drums) and Rian Zietsman (guitar and backing vocals).

By: Jon Monsoon (Plus 1 Media Productions)

“Taxi Violence - The next BIG things!” – Cape Argus Tonight, The Star Tonight, The Daily News (16 February 2006)

“Taxi Violence…the best thing to happen to South African rock music since The Springbok Nude Girls…” - Miles Keylock (Mail & Guardian, 10/02/2006)

“Like a better, rockier Franz Ferdinand” – Vidzone UK.

“Album Of The Month: Taxi Violence Untie Yourself” – GQ Magazine, January 2007

“Taxi Violence Untie Yourself - No.4 on 5FM Top 40 – - April 2007

“"Taxi Violence...best live act of 2007" – - 24.com

“Taxi Violence Untie Yourself - Best Rock Album: South African Music Awards nomination – - May 2008