Halloween arrived last month, but not with candy and costumes. Instead, it was a raw occasion that conjured the spirit of Samhain. It was a night to honour past struggles, to celebrate what’s been gained and to face the future. Smoking Kills turned into a raucous temple as Planet Karavan hosted Hate City Motel, a show that felt less like a gig and more like an invocation of the spirits.
A diverse crowd filled the vibrant, cosy venue, clearly there for more than the typical Halloween festivities. The energy was infectious, drinks flowing all round, anticipating the chance to watch some of the country’s best punk bands.
Twenty One Children kicked things off, bringing a gritty energy that showcased their commanding presence. For vocalist Abdula, the show was personal. A few years ago, he was working for Smoking Kills. That day, he had the privilege of gracing its stage.
He also got to perform alongside bands he’s long admired. Reflecting on the opportunity, he said, “The first punk gig I ever went to was a Ruff Majik show, and that was the moment I fell in love with punk. So, it’s really special to be playing with them now, it’s a full-circle moment for me.”
He continued, “I first saw Man Motels at the tattoo convention in Joburg at 1 Fox, and I was hooked. I used to work events just so I could watch bands for free. I’m glad Man Motels was one of those bands. Tonight is really special. I’m super blessed to call the people I look up to my peers.”
The band’s set left a lasting impression, earning what I’ve come to call Johni Holiday eyes—a look of visible awe from the Ruff Majik frontman, who was impressed by the trio.
The Man Motels took over, shifting the energy to something even darker. For the Cape Town-based band, Halloween in Jozi has become their kind of ritual, drawing on a spirit of rebellion and resistance. “This wasn’t just a set, it felt like a harvest,” the band reflected. “Each band poured everything out, conjuring something electric.”
Ruff Majik wrapped up the night with the kind of raw intensity only they could bring, leaving every last drop of energy on the Smoking Kills stage. Fresh from a gruelling European tour, they weren’t just playing a show—they were celebrating their hard-earned moment in the sun, finally back home.
“The tour was a huge success,” Johni Holiday said, exhausted and fired up. “25 shows in 26 days, crazier festival crowds, more traction at headliners—it’s real growth. And yeah, 26 shows without a limo or private jet is a whole other kind of achievement.”
For Planet Karavan, Hate City Motel was a glimpse of Gauteng’s underground at its absolute peak. “This scene is built on passion, not profit,” they said. “It’s not just alive, it’s unstoppable.”
For the fans, bands, organisers and venue owners, the show was nothing short of incredible. In many ways, it echoed the origins of Halloween—a feast celebrating accomplishments, and a testament to resilience in the face of uncertainty, all while holding onto hope for a terrifyingly bright future.
Photos courtesy of Ruben Grobler-Bothma.
