If you haven’t heard of ALT BLK ERA yet, don’t worry — you will soon. The UK-based duo took SXSW by storm, blowing the roof off of the UK House in Austin with an electrifying performance featuring songs from their debut album Rave Immortal. Their mix of heavy guitars, pulsing basslines, and vulnerable storytelling to craft a sonic experience that’s as rebellious as it is deeply personal. Led by two sisters, Nyrobi and Chaya, their music doesn’t just make you want to move; it makes you feel connected to them and their lived experiences.
The Call to Music
For Nyrobi, the choice to pursue music was never really a choice—it was a calling. “I’ve always known that I would follow a musical pathway. Music and drama are all I’ve ever been interested in,” she says. Chaya, on the other hand, took a different route. “She didn’t know what she wanted to do, so while she’s figuring that out, I encouraged her to join me,” Nyrobi explains. “It’s working out really well so far.”
It’s no surprise that their biggest supporter is their mother, who, rather than pushing them toward a traditional career path, encouraged them to chase their passions. “She tells us to ‘do what we like’ as long as it’s positive,” Nyrobi says with a grin.
Rave Immortal: The Sound of Survival
Their debut album Rave Immortal isn’t just another record—it’s a battle cry. Written in the aftermath of Nyrobi’s struggle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, the album is both a personal narrative and a universal statement. “I was bed-ridden and in agonizing pain for years,” she reveals. “The album starts with the emotional pain of being forgotten by friends and the isolation I felt. But then it moved into defiance and rebellion as I started to get better.”
The result is a concept album that not only channels her personal journey but also resonates with anyone who’s ever felt unheard, underestimated, or left behind.
A Voice for the Unseen
Beyond their own experiences, ALT BLK ERA are using their platform to amplify larger issues. Disability awareness is a major focus for Nyrobi, who only recently became part of the disabled community. “I still have a lot to learn, but one thing is clear—their voices are ignored,” she says. “From a young age, disabled people are placed in a parallel system, separate from the rest of society. There has to be more room for integration.”
Women’s issues also find their way into their music. Some of their earlier work touches on themes of violence against women and girls. “Most people first find our music because of the big basslines and heavy guitars,” Chaya says, “but if you listen closely, there’s a lot of depth to what we’re saying.”
Still, not every song carries a heavy message. “Sometimes, there’s no real message—just wild fun!” Nyrobi says with a mischievous grin.
The Songwriting Process: Titles First, Chaos Second
When it comes to songwriting, Nyrobi takes an unconventional approach. “I have to start with a title. That sets the whole scene and keeps me focused on the message or feeling I want to convey.” From there, the lyrics build organically, often pulling from real-life observations rather than personal experiences. “We haven’t necessarily lived through all the things we sing about, but we listen to the voices around us.”
The Highs and High Costs of Live Performance
For ALT BLK ERA, live performance is everything. “It means the world to be in a room with people who have personally connected with our music,” Nyrobi says. But for her, performing comes at a cost. Because of her chronic pain, she has to take strong medication just to get on stage. “That gives me a short window of time where I am pain-free—and I give it my all. I feel alive.”
Between shows, they keep the connection going through social media, email, and their own Discord group, where they chat with fans about music and fashion.
The Sound of Rebellion
Influences? They don’t chase a specific sound, but they do chase a feeling. “The Prodigy is a huge influence,” Nyrobi says. “We want people to feel the way we feel when we listen to them.” Strome is another inspiration, particularly his storytelling and artistry. “We want to become great storytellers.”
Industry Rebels
In an industry where artists are often pressured to conform, ALT BLK ERA refuses to compromise. “We just stay true to our artistic vision,” Nyrobi says. The real challenge? Finding a team that believes in them as much as they believe in themselves. “The gatekeepers, the naysayers—that’s the hard part.” Their song I’m Normally Like This speaks directly to that struggle.
SXSW and Beyond
Fresh from their first-ever trip to the U.S. for SXSW 2025, ALT BLK ERA are still buzzing from the experience. “We’ve learned so much! The speakers were incredible, and we’ve made amazing connections,” Chaya says. Performing in the U.S. for the first time was surreal, especially when they met fans who already knew their music. “SXSW 2025 has been incredible!”
Next up? Their debut UK tour kicks off in April, followed by festival appearances across the summer. After that, it’s back to the studio—but they’re open to suggestions. “We’d love to hear from your readers — where should we go next?”
With Rave Immortal, Nyrobi and Chaya aren’t just making music—they’re making a statement. And if their debut is anything to go by, the world should brace itself for what’s coming next.
