New Academics is a four-piece Funk rock band formed in Cape Town, South Africa. They are currently based in Johannesburg. They are known for their mixture of Afro-beat, Jazz, Hard rock, Funk and Hip hop in their music and have built a solid a following in South Africa and Europe with their debut album City of Strange. In 2008, the New Academics were nominated for a SAMA (South African Music Award) in the category of "Best Alternative Album". Members Current Joe Penn — vocals (2004–present) David Baudains — guitar (2004–present) Jacques Du Plessis — bass guitar (2016–present) Rob Storm — drums (2014–present) Previous Richard Broderick — drums (2004 -2005) Martin Labuschagne — bass (2006-2009) Damian Staz — drums (2006) Howie Combrink — drums (2006–2007, 2009–2010) Brendon van Rooyen — drums (2007-2009) Sean Strydom — bass (2010) Hugh Hunt — bass (2014–2016) Discography 2016 — "Growler Front" 2006 — City of Strange, Seed Music/Sheer Sound 2008 — The Apple References South African rock music groups