The highly anticipated Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), which will take place in May, is quickly approaching. This year’s musical gathering takes a temporary break from its usual March slot.
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The 2024 edition of the festival will take place from May 3 to 4 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), following previous postponements and a four-year hiatus.
The 24th edition of Africa’s premier jazz festival promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with new talents, formats and stages.
This year’s CTIJF line-up, featuring international stars as well as local talent, promises to be a sensory treat.
Here are some of the artists who will be performing at this year’s event:
Matt Bianco
The British band rose to prominence with their distinct blend of jazz, pop and spy-themed allure.
The group’s name suggests a solo act, but it is actually the alias of their frontman, Mark Reilly, who formed Matt Bianco with Danny White and the late Kito Poncioni.
The band’s hit songs include ‘Get Out of Your Lazy Bed’ and ‘Half a Minute.’
They evolved their sound over time and experimented with various genres. They have also kept their music fresh by collaborating with other artists.
Benjamin Jephta
The artist’s music reflects post-apartheid South Africa, exploring themes of transformation, identity and unity.
Jephta’s album Born Coloured, not Born-Free investigates the complexities of race in modern South Africa.
His music combines traditional and contemporary sounds, and Jephta, a renowned bassist and composer, uses his craft to inspire hope in the face of social challenges.
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Billy Monama
The guitarist and composer is one of the guardians of South Africa’s musical legacy.
Monama’s music, through his Grazroots Project and the Mayibuye iAfrika initiative, showcases the rich tapestry of South African guitar styles, from ghoema/Cape jazz to gqom and kwaito.
His collaborations and educational endeavours also seek to ensure that the rhythms of the past resonate with future generations.
Carlo Mombelli
This respected South African jazz figure is renowned for blending tradition and innovation into his music.
Mombelli’s project, The Prisoners of Strange, showcases his collaborative approach and diverse influences, resulting in hauntingly beautiful music with global appeal.
The musician’s diverse body of work demonstrates his mastery as a bassist and composer, ranging from musical works like ‘Angels and Demons’ to avant-garde explorations like ‘Sketches of Nowhere.’
Kokoroko
The London-based musical collective exemplifies the power of fusion, seamlessly combining jazz and Afrobeats to create a dynamic musical experience.
Kokoroko, led by Sheila Maurice-Grey and Anoushka Nanguy, captivates audiences with their infectious energy and vibrant arrangements, offering a sonic journey that transcends borders.
The group’s music celebrates diversity and unity, guided by an inclusive and joyful philosophy.
Kujenga
The name of the Cape Town-based Afro-jazz band is derived from the Swahili word ‘to build.’
The band’s mission is to use music to connect people in meaningful ways.
Kujenga’s debut album Nationality and upcoming release ‘In The Wake’ explore themes of community, identity and collective struggle.
Mandisi Dyantyis
Dyantyis’ music powerfully combines Afrobeats, soul and jazz to create a meaningful sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
From his debut album, Somandla to the critically acclaimed Cwaka, the musician’s music seeks to capture the complexities of the human experience.
Dyantyi is also an activist and collaborator who uses music to promote change.
Nduduzo Makhathini Trio, featuring Omagugu
Makhathini’s music is deeply spiritual, evoking the rhythms of his KwaZulu-Natal homeland.
His musical contributions as an educator and performer are international in scope.
Makhathini also supports emerging artists through his label, Gundu Entertainment, which aims to evolve the South African jazz industry.
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Bokani Dyer
Dyer’s music reflects his journey through South Africa’s multifaceted landscape, exploring themes of nationhood and identity.
His album, Radio Sechaba, marks a departure from instrumental work by incorporating vocals to convey his message of unity and optimism.
The Yusef Dayes Experience
The drummer and composer from the United Kingdom is well-known in the South London contemporary jazz scene for his vibrant drumming style.
Dayes’ music is influenced by African rhythms, grime and jungle sounds.
The Yussef Dayes Experience consists of him, Malik Venna (saxophone), Rocco Palladino (bass), Alexander Bourt (drums) and Elijah Fox (keyboards).
Their musical offerings have received widespread acclaim and are eagerly anticipated at CTIFJ 2024.
Zoë Modiga
Modiga’s music combines classic and jazz elements to create a truly unique sound.
She is an independent artist whose music challenges and inspires change by combining storytelling and activism.
With her numerous accolades and collaborations, her musical impact is poised to leave a lasting legacy for audiences around the world.
Details:
- Location: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
- Dates: Friday, 3 May and Saturday, 4 May
- Cost: General admission R950 per night per person for access to Sapphire and Topaz stages | Surcharge tickets for Emeral (Rosies) and Ruby (Moses Molelekwa) R30 per person per show
- Website: capetownjazzfest.com
- Tickets: Ticketmaster
Also read:
Dates confirmed for long-awaited Cape Town International Jazz Festival
Picture: Jens Thekkeveettil/Unsplash