Tribute to African sounds
There are some very impressive ladies on stage at Jazztown this year and they are changing the musical landscape one note at a time by inspiring the youth.
The collaboration between Zenzi Makeba Lee and Amanda Tiffin was a tribute to the sounds of Africa, featuring songs by Makeba Lee’s famous grandmother Miriam Makeba, and fresh compositions by both.
New York-born Makeba Lee channeled some Mama Afrika magic, but she performs with a more subtle energy. A dip of the shoulder, a twist of the hip and she charms the audience with understated ease.
Zimbabwean-born jazz composer and educator Tiffin’s composition Consideration was impressive, displaying her vocal dexterity to the fullest. Her gentle rendition of Neria by Oliver Mtukudzi was a highlight.
Pianist Afrika Mkhize is jazz roy- alty too – the son of legendary Themba Mkhize has carved out his own legacy as composer and producer. His solo in Jolinkomo had the audience spellbound. His onstage chemistry with wife, Makeba Lee, really shows in songs like Bandi Jongile.
Drummer Marlon Witbooi uses every imaginable sound on the kit without overwhelming the singers while percussionist Tlali Makhene's subtle whistles and bird sounds provided atmosphere and colour.
Bay jazz bass export Romy Brauteseth’s lyrical solo in the ballad Ingoma ye Nkedama deserves a mention. She moves effortlessly between sensitive lines and driving grooves throughout the show.
A lovely touch was including some young students in the last two songs. It was a shoutout to the youth to rise up and effect change. Sharing a stage with jazz royalty certainly went a long way towards realising that dream.