In February of 2009, four Cape Town boys of similar musical backgrounds formed the group Holiday Murray. With a shared interest in a variety of musical styles and a mutual passion for sound and expression, the group began writing their own material in the months to follow.

All studying at the same university, the four found plenty of time to ruminate on absurd topics and listen to music together. In November of the same year they played their first show in a small Cape Town bar. Their sound draws from a strong affinity for acoustic instruments and vocal work, an interest in folk melody and rhythm, and the inescapable aggregate of rock music. The four youths endeavor to create music that balances sound and silence, stillness and movement; in a project that they believe explains who they are at this time in their lives. Placing a great emphasis on their live performance, the band seeks to produce interesting but highly listenable material, whilst taking care in the writing of the lyrics.

Although approaching the scene with international ambitions, Holiday Murray as a collective is driven by a powerful sentimentality towards their hometown and country and intends to perform as far and wide in South Africa as possible. The naming process was simple, the name Holiday Murray belonging to a tall thin wooden man who aids the writing process, attends every band orientated event, and takes centre stage at every show.

In April 2010 the band began recording their self-titled debut album, due for release in early May 2011.