From SOUNDGARDEN to Shallow: ZAAC THOMPSON of NONBERK on Nature, Music, and The Band's Evolution

HEAVY Music Interviews

Interview by Angela Croudace
Brisbane-based alternative rock trio Nonberk have made waves in the local scene since their formation in 2019. Led by frontman Zaac Thompson, the band's sound channels heavy 90s grunge influences like Soundgarden, Silverchair, and Alice In Chains. Their powerful riffs and raw lyrics have earned them a dedicated following, with each release bringing something fresh to the table.
In a candid interview, Zaac shared insights into Nonberk's journey, creative process, and new single, Shallow, which captures their evolving sound. The band's origin story goes back to Zaac's university days, where he met drummer Sam Monk. Their shared love for music soon brought bass player Kevin Boga into the fold, who had been active in Brisbane's alternative rock scene. Despite line-up changes and the challenges posed by the pandemic, Nonberk found their groove during lockdowns, using the time to focus on writing and refining their music.
Regarding the band's name, Zaac admits that coming up with something unique was a challenge. "I wanted something original—something you'd never forget," he says. Nonberk is a made-up word, symbolising the band's unconventional approach to music. For Zaac, it represents a "non stupid person" in a playful, self-deprecating way, reflecting their experimental nature and desire to push musical boundaries.
The band's latest album, Elements, marks a significant shift in their sound. After a line-up change, Zaac swapped from bass to guitar, influencing the new tracks' dynamics. The album's theme draws inspiration from nature, with songs written in various outdoor settings, from beaches to forests. Shallow, the first single from the album, exemplifies this connection to nature. Zaac explains that the song's flowing verses reflect the serenity of the beach, while the deeper lyrical themes explore existential questions about loss and the human experience.
Beyond his work with Nonberk, Zaac's musical influences span across genres. From the hard-hitting riffs of Black Sabbath to the quirky humour of Tenacious D, he draws inspiration from a wide range of artists. "I try to pull influences from all kinds of music," he says, mentioning his appreciation for jazz and classical music alongside rock and metal.
Nonberk's music is marked by its emotional depth and sonic texture, with collaborations like the one with cellist Nicholas Tam on their album adding further richness to their sound.
With an album launch on the horizon and plans for a 5th-anniversary edition of their debut album, Nonberk is poised for an exciting year ahead. Zaac says, "It's all about challenging ourselves and pushing our sound to new places." Keep an eye on them—Nonberk's journey is only just beginning.
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