Early Life and Formation
Goldfish is a South African electronic music duo composed of Dominic Peters and David Poole. Both musicians were born in Cape Town, South Africa, and met during their studies at the University of Cape Town, where they pursued degrees in jazz performance. Their shared passion for music and live performance led to the formation of Goldfish in 2004.
Musical Style and Influences
Goldfish is renowned for its unique blend of electronic dance music with live instrumentation. Their sound incorporates elements of house, jazz, trip hop, downtempo, and electro swing, often featuring instruments such as saxophones, flutes, keyboards, double bass, and vocals. This fusion of genres and live performance sets them apart in the electronic music scene.
Career Trajectory and Notable Accomplishments
Goldfish released their debut album, Caught in the Loop, in 2006, which garnered significant attention in the South African music scene. The album’s success led to opportunities to open for international acts like Basement Jaxx, Faithless, Fatboy Slim, and Paul van Dyk.
In 2008, they released Perceptions of Pacha, which received critical acclaim. They set a new record at the South African Music Awards with eight nominations, including Best Duo or Group and Album of the Year. They won Best Dance Album and Best Engineer for this release.
Their 2010 album, Get Busy Living, continued their success, winning Best Global Dance Album at the 17th South African Music Awards. The duo’s music has been featured in various commercials, including Kia’s advertisement for the Soul model and Nike’s Nike+ App campaign.
In 2014, Goldfish was awarded Best Pop at the MTV Africa Music Awards, further solidifying their status in the international music community.
Discography
- Caught in the Loop (2006)
- Perceptions of Pacha (2008)
- Perceptions of Pacha Remixed (2009)
- Get Busy Living (2010)
- Goldfish (2012)
- Three Second Memory (2013)
- Late Night People (2017)
- If Summer Was a Sound (2023)
Collaborations and Contributions
Throughout their career, Goldfish has collaborated with various artists and producers, contributing to the evolution of the electronic music genre. Their innovative approach has influenced a new generation of musicians and producers in the live electronic music scene.
Personal Life and Challenges
While specific details about their personal lives are kept private, it is known that Goldfish relocated from South Africa to San Diego, California, to focus on the burgeoning U.S. market. This move reflects their commitment to expanding their reach and adapting to new musical landscapes.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Goldfish has been pivotal in shaping the live electronic music scene, particularly in South Africa. Their innovative fusion of live instruments with electronic beats has set a precedent for future artists in the genre. Their performances at major festivals like Coachella, Glastonbury, and Ultra Music Festival have showcased their dynamic stage presence and musical versatility.
