Crimson House lights up the creek
Namibian musicians continue to make their mark beyond the country’s borders, with Swakopmund-based artist Riaan Smit leading the way after headlining one of South Africa’s largest and most iconic music festivals, Up the Creek.
Smit, frontman of the band Crimson House, delivered a high-energy performance that festivalgoers described as one of the standout acts of the weekend. Known for their distinctive gypsy-blues sound, powerful horn section and theatrical stage presence, the band once again proved why they remain firm favourites on the festival circuit.
This year marked Crimson House’s eighth appearance on the Up the Creek main stage — an achievement that cements their reputation as one of the festival’s most consistently re-booked and popular acts.
In a memorable highlight, Smit climbed onto an inflatable boat and crowd-surfed across the audience as the band powered through a rousing finale. During the set, he also welcomed fellow Namibian group The Ells onto the stage for a collaborative performance that included an electrifying drum solo, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
Sixteen years of Crimson House
Formed in 2010, Crimson House is now entering its 16th year. With four studio albums released, the band has built a reputation as one of Southern Africa’s most dynamic live acts, blending blues, rock, cabaret and ska into an energetic and genre-defying sound. Three of its six members are Namibian, including Arno van Zyl and drummer Christoph de Chavonnes Vrugt.
At the centre of it all is Smit, who continues to build an international career while remaining firmly rooted in Swakopmund.
Following their festival success, Crimson House has announced a South African tour, with performances scheduled in Somerset West (28 February), Knysna (7 March), St Francis Bay (5 March) and Gqeberha (6 March).
Beyond the band, Smit has also released his fourth solo studio album, Electric Nomad, a genre-spanning project that blends surf rock, blues and funk influences. He is expected to tour the album in South Africa later this year.
