Werner Olckers

Werner Olckers is the leadsinger of the popular country-rock band Wrestlerish.

Olckers was the vocalist and guitarist for the acclaimed Pretoria band SHU for eight years, before he started writing stripped down acoustic songs and formed Wrestlerish in 2006.

Wrestlerish’s highly anticipated debut album “The Rude Mechanical” was received with overwhelming response from critics and fans alike and their second album, “Towns”, was released in 2011.

We met up with Olckers to discuss his love for Pretoria and everything Tshwane-related.

How long have you been living in Pretoria?

This is year marks my 21st year in Pretoria.

When writing music, do you have a favourite spot to sit & write?

I tend to do most of my writing from my couch. But when I need a break I love hitting places like Lucky Rodrigo, Barn 52 or Brooklyn’s Design Square.

What’s your favourite venue in Pretoria to play a live show at?

Arcade Empire, hands down.

Which Pretoria high school do you wish you went do?

I went to Pro Arte and I don’t think I would change that. The alumni from my era is pretty impressive.

If you could live in any country in the world – which one would you choose?

I’d move to America. For Nashville. For the music. But except for that, I’m pretty content here.

TUKS of niks?

I’m a big supporter of TuksFM. So whatever the association is, if it’s link to that station I’m down.

Have you ever been to a Blue Bulls game? If yes, what’s the one thing you shoul leave at home when you go?

Never. But I’d assume a Sharks jersey.

Favourite shop, coffee cafe & picnic spot in Pretoria?

Outer Limits in Hatfield for comics, Lucky Rodrigo for coffee and Park Acoustics for a picnic.

Your favourite Pretoria suburb?

I’m a Menlo Park kid. It’s close enough to Menlyn, Brooklyn and Hatfield to always find some kind of trouble.

You spend a lot of time on the road. What is your favourite destination?

Locally, I always have fun in Cape Town and have made some great friends there. Internationally, I’d love to get back to the United States and Europe soon. Japan is also on top of my to do list.

According to you, what’s the ultimate “must see” Pretoria tourist attraction?

The Union Buildings, The Voortrekker Monument and Church Square are all equal in my opinion.

Wrestlerish’s album, “Towns”, is available in stores countrywide. For upcoming shows and more information on the band, you can check out their Twitter and Facebook-pages or visit their website, wrestlerish.co.za .