Inter-Alia (sometimes styled as Inter Alia or Inter-Alia) is a long-running Durban-based musical duo consisting of husband-and-wife team Jane Candow (lead vocals, occasional guitar) and Paul Candow (guitar, backing vocals, and programming of backing tracks).
The name “Inter Alia” is Latin for “among other things,” reflecting their versatile style. They have been professional performers since the mid-1980s and are well-known in the Durban and KwaZulu-Natal live music scene for high-quality cover sets and engaging stage presence.
History and Background
- Jane and Paul met in 1983 in Pietermaritzburg when Jane auditioned as lead singer for a 6-piece band in which Paul played lead guitar. They married in 1989.
- They started as part of larger bands but transitioned to a duo in 1987, performing their first professional gig at Garfunkels in Durban using an MC500 sequencer for backing tracks.
- From the late 1980s to 1997, they were regulars on the Durban pub and club circuit (venues like Idlers, Derby’s, Shunters, Thirsty’s, and Easy Beat), playing rock-rooted sets.
- After 1997, they shifted toward supper theatre, cabaret shows (e.g., Girls Luv To Rock, Rock this Country, Natural Women), corporate events, theme nights, garden concerts, and festivals. They have performed on national TV (twice), at the Royal Show, Spogweni Music Festival, and even shared a stage in the UK.
- They remain active in the 1000 Hills / Botha’s Hill area and greater Durban, often playing at venues like Lindisfarne B&B, The Pot and Kettle, and various restaurants or events with live music and roasts.
Paul was born in Shildon, North East England, moved to South Africa in 1982, and is a self-taught guitarist influenced by players like Larry Carlton, Steve Vai, and Allan Holdsworth. He plays Fender Telecaster and Stratocaster live and has released a solo album (Until Now, 2021). Jane, originally from Zambia, has a powerful, versatile voice and handles much of the duo’s marketing.
Music Style
Their repertoire is broad and versatile: light jazz, power rock, country, rock ’n’ roll, and pop covers. Jane’s vocals often channel artists like Stevie Nicks, Annie Lennox, Pink, Alison Moyet, Carly Simon, or Lewis Capaldi, while Paul adds intricate guitar work (including classical pieces like his take on “Nessun Dorma”). They use programmed backing tracks for a full sound as a duo and are praised for solid musicianship and a “classy” professional delivery. They also incorporate original or styled interpretations that reflect their rock roots.
They have tracks available on their site (e.g., “Keep On Shining,” “Pool Hall”) and have appeared in local gigs alongside acts like Parable Fifteen and Zazz.
Where to Catch Them
Inter-Alia frequently plays at local events, Sunday lunches, garden concerts, and venues in the Durban / 1000 Hills area. Check their website (inter-alia.co.za) for music samples or updates. For bookings or inquiries, Jane’s contact number has been listed in past event promos as 083 362 7059.
They’re a Durban institution with decades of history, hilarious and heartfelt stories, and a loyal following from the old circuit days. If you’re in the area and enjoy live covers with strong vocals and guitar, they’re worth seeing—versatile, reliable, and full of character.
