Local Intel: David Derman

I spend a lot of time there, usually with a cappuccino in hand, working on demos or tweaking mixes of my next few releases. It’s got such a comfortable vibe. On warm days, I sit by the open windows at the bar, soaking up the city with a cool sea breeze, and when it’s chilly, you’ll find me tucked in next to the fireplace. The staff are honestly what make it, just good people, super friendly and easy to connect with. Whether I’m meeting a producer, reviewing new songs, or just hanging out with a friend, it always fits the moment. I also really love the vintage playlist that they have, full of classics.

206 Main Rd, Sea Point

My favourite place to wind down and catch a wave [It's also on the TimeOut list of Cape Town's best surf spots!]. Being in the ocean clears out the mental clutter and helps me come back with a fresh perspective, especially during a creative block. There’s something about this beach [It's also on the Time Out list of Cape Town's best beaches!] that brings me back to myself. It’s where things slow down, and I can get a bit of clarity, rework an idea, or rethink a lyric. 

Llandudno Road, off Victoria Road  

This festival has a special place in my heart. I feel that the lineups are not only top-notch, but what sets it apart is the genuine musicianship at its core; it feels like a place that truly values artists.  To be a part of it and play at Up the Creek was always a dream of mine. Next year I get to tick the box of playing the River Stage for the first time, and hopefully 2027 I’ll do the same for the mainstage. I can’t wait to bring the energy!

Breede River, Swellendam

I’ve always felt a deep connection to the foster care community for rescued dogs and cats. Most of the animals in my family were adopted from the Domestic Animal Rescue Group (DARG), a non-profit organisation that rescues and re-homes previously abused, neglected, and abandoned cats and dogs. These companions have brought incredible joy and meaning to my life. Giving a bit of time and energy to these animals goes a long way for them, even if you’re not in a position to adopt.

Main Rd, Hout Bay

Given my history of academia in the wine industry at Stellenbosch University [Derman holds a Masters degree in Wine Biotechnology!] I want to name at least one wine farm that I both enjoyed as a performance venue over the years and produced one of my favourite wines: ‘The Owl Post’ [Also try these other Cape estates crafting excellent Pinotage!]. A special mention must also go to Cavalli Estate.

 Polkadraai Rd, Stellenbosch

During my time at Stellenbosch University, once a week I would make my way through the beautiful hiking and running trails and take a cold plunge under the waterfall in Summer. It was a sacred escape from the chaos of university life.

Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch

The Sentinel Café is one of my favourite stops to grab coffee and admire one of my favourite views in Cape Town; of the ocean and mountains while having a stroll on the beach.

Main Beach, Hout Bay

If you’re a cat person and need some quiet time away from the humans, a visit to this cat heaven should be on your bucket list.

Noordhoek, Cape Town. 

My childhood dream was to play a show at Kirstenbosch Gardens and hear the crowd sing the lyrics of my songs back to me. I’ve watched some of my favourites, such as Passenger and Of Monsters and Men play there, and to be on that stage will be a great moment for me. The combination of music, nature and people is magical.

Rhodes Avenue, Newlands

This sandy bay near Oudekraal is my favourite place to snorkel and observe the underwater world on a summer’s day. The cold water favours the brave.

Victoria Road, between Camps Bay and Llandudno

One of my favourite places to get a refreshing start to the day: a cool dip in the tidal pool while watching the sun rise over the False Bay mountain range.

[Need more tidal pool inspo? Here are the Best tidal pools in Cape Town!]

Main Road, Kalk Bay