Mark Bahlig, a South African-German singer and songwriter, and Argentinian born musician, Gustavo Fasani, initiated a major shift in their lives in 2016 sparking a dedicated transition into the world of music. With their project, NOWAND, Mark and Gustavo’s unremitting passion and commitment to creating music that moves the soul drives them forward in a never-ending quest to explore their inner realms and reveal it to the world. 

 

Together with wellknown Berlin-based sound engineer and producer, Hannes Bieger, they spent several years taking their project to the next level and in February 2022 their debut album “Superhuman” was released. This was preceded by two singles that included remixes by Hannes Bieger and Francesca Lombardo. In the course of the same year the title song was arranged and orchestrated for classical interpretation by composer, John Walton. The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra was recorded at Milestone Studios in Cape Town and “Superhuman Classic” was released in June 2023.

 

NOWAND is centred on music that incorporates elements of new wave, synth pop, dub and blues, as well as the timeless sounds of the eighties and nineties. What emerges from this vibrant cocktail of influences is emotive, accessible and deeply personal. 

 

Mark doesn’t shy away from exploring difficult subjects in his lyrics, many of them autobiographical. His maturity has given him the ability to find a distinct voice from the get go; melancholy synths glide over dour bass lines as heartfelt vocals tap into your emotional centre. Stirring string arrangements combine with crisp beats, and the atmosphere is pensive yet alluring.

 

For both Mark and Gustavo, the NOWAND project has provided a channel for catharsis and regeneration, now their intention is to provide the same outlet for their listeners.