Get ready to swing and groove because Jazz In July is back with an electrifying lineup of musical brilliance. On July 8th, 2023, Kesivan Naidoo, the eminent South African drummer, is returning from Switzerland to South Africa with his sensational Big Band Experience.
Kesivan Naidoo has established himself as one of the most remarkable drummers of his generation. With a list of jazz legends he’s played alongside, from Miriam Makeba to Hotep Galeta and Winston Mankunku, Naidoo’s musical journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His 2014 album, “Brotherhood,” showcased his deep respect for history and his ability to create awe-inspiring sonic spectacles. Now, in 2023, Naidoo is reimagining “Brotherhood” as a thrilling Big Band experience, collaborating with celebrated trombonist Adrian Mears to breathe new life into the Afro-Indo modulations and cinematic improvisations of the original album (source: Miles Keylock, former editor of Rolling Stone Magazine).
For jazz enthusiasts, Jazz In July is an opportunity to witness the heart and soul of improvisation at its grandest. And what could be grander than a full-blown Jazz Big Band? In 2022, Kesivan and Adrian took audiences on a mesmerizing journey, paying homage to the legends of jazz like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller, as well as infusing their own touch into Louis Moholo-Moholo’s big band Voodoo. The first big band concerts in Germany and Switzerland were an unforgettable experience, leaving the audience in awe of the music and arrangements.
Kesivan’s opening concert performance with the Swiss Jazz Orchestra earlier this year received standing ovations. The all-star young big band, with an impressive representation of women musicians, captivated the crowd with their exceptional talent and artistry. It was a testament to the power and tactility of the Big Band tunes.
But that’s not all! Jazz In July brings you another extraordinary ensemble: The Rainmakers. They continue a tradition that few formations can claim today. Their music is not just a display of virtuosity and creativity; it’s a statement of freedom, rebellion, and transcendence. In a world filled with systems of control and oppression, The Rainmakers’ quartet, consisting of Bänz Oester, Javier Vercher, Afrika Mkhize, and Ayanda Sikade, boldly affirms their spiritual aspirations and their need to break free from constraints. Their music resonates with the legacy of spiritual jazz, reminiscent of the likes of John Coltrane and other pioneers of the genre (source: jazzwerkstatt.ch).
When The Rainmakers perform, they become one with their instruments, generating pure joy and creating a sound that seems to influence the very fabric of the universe. Bänz Oester, the band leader, along with Javier Vercher, Afrika Mkhize, and Ayanda Sikade, form an unbreakable unit. Their collective energy transcends individuality, and their music becomes a powerful force that unifies listeners. This formation embodies a spirit of equality, collaboration, and boundary-breaking. Oester, fascinated by Africa’s rich musical culture, emphasizes the importance of mutual communication and the absence of hierarchical thinking in their music-making process. It’s all about breaking boundaries and embracing the collective power of music.
Jazz In July promises an international music experience like no other. With Kesivan Naidoo’s Big Band Experience and The Rainmakers’ captivating quartet, audiences will be transported to a realm of pure musical bliss. So mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of jazz.
Tickets are available at the following prices:
– R200 to R300 per person
– Special promo tickets at R120 per person (when purchasing four or more tickets)
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable musical extravaganza. Jazz In July is where the magic happens, where music comes alive, and where your soul will find its rhythm.
Note: For further details or ticket inquiries, please visit the official Jazz In July website or contact the organizers directly.
Stay tuned for more updates and let the jazz spirit guide you!