BOO! and Babu are in Gauteng this week.
- One of the most audacious and talented groups to emerge from South Africa in recent times, Babu are playing at The Bassline on Wednesday 20 October. Babu fuses the complexity and vibrancy of jazz with the long-standing improvisational practices of Indian classical music, which itself has had an extensive history of spirituality in music. Through the coming together off four experienced, diverse, technically-impressive musicians, the band has made a strong impression amongst listeners of different age groups and backgrounds throughout South Africa and have been nominated for two SAMA awards.
- While not exactly a secret, Hotbox Studios have over the past year been quietly going about their business in providing a focus point for the progressive indie and rock music coming out of Pretoria. This week their flagship night – The Dogbox – turns one year old and they will be celebrating in style on Friday 16 October. Doors open at 7pm and the line up includes Matt Suttner, Moejoe, Doctor Khumalo, Nathan Scott Phillips, Makattack and Getafix along with birthday cake, give aways, lazers, raspberry rum and cane train. (And if you bring old clothing then they will donate it to charity and you get R10 discount on entrance). So entrance is R30 if you’re lame.
- Since 2005 Radio Kalahari Orchestra (RKO) have been claiming the hearts and feet all around the country. Led by the beloved Boet (Ian Roberts) the orchestra are purveyors of a lively and sometimes unconventional view of the best that African music can offer. The music is unique and truly South African, with influences ranging from goemma to kwaito to rock. The men behind most of the tunes are Dan Roberts and author-journalist Rian Malan, and the group have just released their album Heuningland to critical acclaim. RKO play Steak and Ale in Centurion on Thursday 21 October.
- At this point there is not much that can be said about Boo! other then it is a relief that they are back on the scene. After several years of absence front man Chris Chameleon has stepped out of the pop spotlight to reform on of the all time great South African rock acts – cross dressing and all.. Expect that crazed mix of rock, electronica and wild instrumentation. Boo! play Tings and Times on Saturday 16 October.