Ubunye

This concert is presented by Jazz North East in association with The Globe

Xolani Mbathe – vocals, vocal percussion, Thandanani Gumede – vocals, Nokuthula Zondi – vocals
David Evans – keyboards, synths, Kenny Higgins – bass guitar, synths, Alex Wibrew – drums, percussion, Nik Rutherford – guitar

Ubunye is a seven piece ensemble featuring the instrumental talents of Leeds based musicians David Evans (keys), Kenny Higgins (electric bass), Alex Wibrew (drums) and Nik Rutherford (guitar). It is fronted by three vocalists from the Kwa Zulu Natal region of South Africa, Xolani Mbathe, Thandanani Gumede and Nokuthula Zondi. The group’s music fuses jazz with Afro-pop and traditional ‘Isigqui’ Zulu music.

The band name can be loosely translated as ‘Oneness’ or ‘Unity’ and the group has its origins in a festival collaboration between co-leaders Evans and Mbathe at a festival in Leeds. The success of the Festival project resulted in Evans and Mbathe recruiting musicians and vocalists from their individual musical circles to create a unified working band.

As a collective Ubunye have acquired a considerable reputation for the quality and energy of their exciting stage shows. They have headlined at the Manchester and Lancaster jazz festivals and performed a sell out show at the Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho, London.

Tickets for venue: £10.00 advance, £12 door
Tickets for livestream: £7.50, £15.00, £20.00

 

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