Spaza : Performing Makhanda Suite

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Event:Mushroom hour half hour presents

“SPAZA performing Makhanda Suite ” live at Untitled Basement.

Date: 17 May 2024

Time: 7pm

Venue: Untitled Basement 

Door: R300 @Quicket & R350 at the door

Mushroom hour half hour presents “SPAZA performing Makhanda Suite ” live at Untitled Basement.

SPAZA is a band with no permanent personnel, curated by Mushroom Hour Half Hour, with each lineup assembled for the express purpose of recording once-off improvised or workshopped material.

This edition of Spaza was workshopped and birthed at the National Arts festival (Makhanda), over a period of five days, with the musicians working from the iconic The Black Power Station. The music was then presented to audiences at the festival over three shows, after which, the band went on to present the work at international festivals such as Roskilde festival in Denmark, and the Banlieues Blues Summer Camp festival in Paris, 

This project is inspired by the story of Makhanda Nxele, a warrior and prophet of Xhosa and Khoi descent, after whom the town Grahamstown was renamed. Their project touches on themes of revolt and reclaiming. 

Spaza features trombonist Malcolm Jiyane, vocalist Nosisi Ngakane, drummer Lungile Kunene, saxophonist Linda Tshabalala, percussionist Gontse Makhene, bassist Ayanda Zalekile and keyboardist Nkosinathi Mathunjwa. They were assisted by curators Nhlanhla Mngadi and Nhlanhla Masondo.

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