Reviewed by Veronika van der Walt.
Mensdom, founded in 2018, is an Afrikaans Rock band that delivers a unique blend of raw energy, heartfelt passion, and authentic storytelling. Since our inception, we’ve aimed to push boundaries in the music scene, creating a sound that is both distinctly Afrikaans and universally resonant. Mensdom is not just a band—it’s a movement, a voice, and a testament to the power of Afrikaans Rock.
Translated to English Mensdom means humanity but the band’s name is actually ‘Mens’, which means human, and ‘dom’, which means stupid. Mensdom is an unapologetic, in-your-face Afrikaans rock band that throughs the apple cart completely over lol.
Photo by Rayden Van Den Berg
1. Mis Jou Nie
This track is about a woman breaking up with a man because he’s not good enough for her. He thinks about their memories together and maybe wants to kiss her one last time. But he gets over her eventually. He then wonders if he can be alone, and if the Creator will forgive his sins. Very interesting – could it maybe have been an affair?… I’m sure some can relate lol. I see a connection with the song ‘Bid Vir My’.
2. Absoluut Perfek
When I listen to this song I see in my mind people looking at their bodies in the mirror feeling ugly – this track is for you, my friend. You are absolutely perfect, whether you’re chubby or disabled, and you will find someone special who knows it.
3. Skaapgenade
You should listen this track if you’re unhappy with your current work situation or mad at your boss lol. I “see” a man getting up early and going to his “nine-to-five” office job which he hates. He pleas someone to save him from the “skaapgenade” (“sheep grace”) – the “system” – serving the money god! I’m sure many people can relate to feeling “stuck” in their job, not doing something that matters. This song goes nicely with the next one ‘Bid Vir My’.
4. Bid Vir My
Since ‘Mens’ means human and ‘dom’ means stupid, I think the message they are trying to get across with their debut track ‘Bid Vir My’ is: “Stupid human, stop and think where you are going to? Are you going to heaven or hell when you die? Where are you going with your life? Why are you put on this earth? Are you busy with something that matters, that is making a difference in the world? Or are you one of the ‘sheep’ following the false herder, the god of money?!”
Photo by Rayden Van Den Berg
5. Wolfman
I like the bass guitar in the beginning and Linus almost howling like a wolf lol. It’s about a werewolf – half human, half monster like a narcissist. Human in public but a monster behind closed doors. Narcissists can inflict extreme emotional pain – “flesh and blood dripping from the walls”. “You don’t know who he is” until he has you in his claws and it’s too late…
6. Wat Ek Is
It also starts with the menacing bass. This track makes me think of personality disorders. It can be suppressed with antidepressants but in the end it is “who you are”. It follows you wherever you go and tells you what to do like parents.
7. Verraai
Love the almost metal guitar in the beginning. This one goes with ‘Wolfman’ for me. You play this track loud if you’re still mad at your ex lol. “You didn’t want to listen.” “F%ck closure. I’m done with you.” lol.
8. Is Jy Okay
Lekker rock song. For anyone messing with you – your boss or your ex. “Are you okay in your head” lol. Absolutely love the guitar “solo”.
Photo by Rayden Van Den Berg
A revolutionary Afrikaans rock album. I see great things for this band in the future. Well done, boys!
Listen to ‘Bonatuurlik’ here
https://hypeddit.com/bonatuurlik
Follow Mensdom here
All Links: https://linktr.ee/mensdom
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMensdom
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialmensdom
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Mensdom
Website: https://www.mensdom.co.za