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7TH SON BRINGS 'RUDE ROCK SHAKEDOWN' TO EL
	7th SON BRINGS RUDE ROCK SHAKEDOWN TO EL 7th Son, the highly rated six-piece roots-rock-reggae group from Cape Town, played at Buccaneers just two months ago. The diverse audience loved them. The band has just released phase 1 of their much anticipated third album ‘Rude Rock Shakedown’. Due to the popularity and success of their July show here, East London has been included on their current national tour schedule to promote the ...album. 7th Son will play at Buccaneers on Thursday 15 September. You can buy tickets for the show from Lee Gold (opposite Checkers Nahoon) for a bargain R50. Alternatively phone 083 797 3546 or 082 660 6586, or pay at the door. Local band Jason Gladwin and the Daytime Dreamers will open the evening for 7th Son. 7th Son’s modus operandi is as follows – phase 1 and 2 of their album release will see them launch two seven track EPs, with the first seven tracks being made available online, for free. The final phase will culminate in the release of an album that will include five bonus tracks, as well as a DVD Documentary featuring a short “Making The Album” video and a few music videos to boot. This novel approach to launching an album mirrors what 7th Son is all about as a band, as it presents a little bit of everything rolled into one, slick package. 7th Son has always had a work ethic second to none, which is evident in the release of their debut album ‘Fire in the Rain’ right up to their second full-length album ‘Ontology’, released under Musketeer Records. It was after the success of their singles ‘On my Holiday’ and 'Tokyo' that 7th Son’s dedication to their craft paid off in both local and international airplay, as well as an extensive tour of Germany. ‘Rude Rock Shakedown’ sees the band returning to their ska/reggae roots, but the listener never settles into genre complacency with this EP. On the musical diversity of their tracks, lead singer Nic Gaud commented, “I have so many influences, that I used to start on one genre, then change tack midway through the writing process and try and fit a song into the ska genre. Now I just write what comes and the hell with it.” From the heavily reggae influenced ‘Oceans of Time’ through to the ‘Ontology’ inspired ‘Backdoor’, Nic and the boys have thrown down the gauntlet at an industry that relies too heavily on commercially pleasing tracks and radio grabbing 40 second chorus lines. The first seven track EP (Phase 1) is available (from 1 September) for free download from www.7thson.co.za Come out to Buccaneers on Thursday 15 September, and show your support for good South African music. It's a great venue, whether you want to listen up-close or chill on the deck.
January, 2011 \| 466 Views \| Read More...

NIBS VAN DER SPUY Internationally renowned guitarist, singer, songwriter
	Saturday 10 September 2011: 20h00 at Nahoon Lifesavers Shack, East London. Tickets from LEE GOLD MUSIC and at the door (unless sold out). Internationally renowned, guitarist, singer, songwriter Nibs van der Spuy has been touring the world with his brand of insightful acoustic guitar mastery and poignant lyrics over the last 4 years. Journalists from all over the globe and predominantly Europe have cited Nibs as a fresh voice in the ‘Nu folk’ movement. With his virtuosic acoustic guitar style and mesmeric voice he has enchanted listeners from small intimate theatres to large festival stages. With the release of his latest offering, ‘A House across the River’, France’s leading newspaper ‘Liberation’, wrote a full page article on Nibs and back on the home front, Keith Tamkei from the Sunday Times, praised it with a rare 5 stars. He is currently promoting the release of his first live DVD, ‘Live at the Vagabond Café’ which has been nominated for this years SAMA awards. EDITED ROAD TRIP 2006 -2010 October 2006- Tour of Australia supporting Hawksley Workman. April 2007- Nibs plays Blues & Roots Festival in Byron Bay, Australia. (with Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt and Ben Harper) February 2008 -South African tour with Piers Faccini. May 2008- La Maroquinerie show, Paris with Piers Faccini. May 2009- Support for Emily Louizeau in Dijon. August 2009- Ravello Festival, Italy. April 2010- Printemps de Bourges. June 2010- Bush Fire Festival Swaziland. June 2010- Rio Loco festival, Toulouse with Piers Faccini. PRESS REVIEWS: *5 Star review for ‘A House across the River’* ‘Pervasive traditional African storytelling craft, carried aloft Nibs’ creative music writing and lively maskanda guitar mixed in with acoustic folk sounds make this a remarkable album. From the opening harmonica, deep base and tinny riffs of the picturesque title track, to the hymnal Nieu Bethesda and solemn Celtic instrumental Apple Tree Wick, this album propels Nibs as a foremost proponent of the fine weave of cultural sounds that are this country. \| Sunday Times, South Africa (Aug 2010) *Reviews for ‘A Bird in the Hand’* ‘a Bird in the Hand’ is expressed through beautifully weighted and filigreed acoustic playing and van der Spuy’s use of compelling metaphors in sensitive appraisal of his homeland’s pain and traumas. Magisterially persuasive. \| UNCUT (Jan 2009) Nibs has set out to produce the most sensitive and breathy songs on the continent with instrumental pieces showing off his classy, gently sturdy guitar work \| The Guardian, UK (Dec 2008) Nibs van der Spuy may well have succeeded in creating a future classic of the genre. \| 5/5 JAZZTHETIK, Germany (Nov 2008) This is an absolute gem of an album that will draw you in from the very first listen \| Bradford Telegraph (Dec 2008) A discovery, His guitar playing with classical touches and Zulu melodies and his thrilling airy voice is Folk Rock from out of this world \| Le Monde, France (Aug 2008) Elegantly composed guitar work set against an African backdrop \| 4/5 The Star, South Africa (Oct 2008) Without a doubt one of the albums of the year \| 4/5 Die Beeld, South Africa (Oct 2008)
January, 2011 \| 210 Views \| Read More...

Magna Carta Tour: Back on African Soil

On Saturday 16 October the legendary UK band Magna Carta, who have been together since the 70s, will be playing at the Nahoon Lifesavers Shack. This is part of an extensive SA tour. Details of the EL show are:

A show you dare not miss! If you are old enough to remember their tours to South Africa in the early and mid seventies and have not yet seen one of their South African tour shows, you have no excuse for missing this one … and if you are too young to remember them you have no excuse not to educate your ears to a brand of music that you will listen to one day in your wheelchair in the old-age home.

Magna Carta returns to South African shores for the 4^th year in succession

Often described as Britain’s answer to Simon and Garfunkel in the early years, Magna Carta was founded by North Yorkshireman Chris Simpson in 1969. They have toured 78 countries, recorded 30 albums and sold over 8 000 000 albums world-wide. It was the albums Seasons’ and the magnificent classic ‘Lord of the Ages’, (regarded by many in South Africa as up there with ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ and ‘Sergeant Pepper’) and the evergreen single ‘Airport Song’ that put them on the world map. Another absolute classic, reminiscent of Simon and Garfunkel’s Scarborough Fair, is their evergreen “ The Bridge at Knaresborough Town” … but as Chris points out with a wry grin … Paul Simon did not write Scarborough Fair. Chris penned almost all of the Magna Carta songs you will hear.

On tour they have crossed the borders of more than 78 countries and played to diplomats and nomads. From London’s Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to the Montreux Festival and Lisbon Opera House and the Canterbury Festival in Ontario, Canada, to the ancient souk in Damascus, Syria, their timeless music has woven its magic across every kind of audience and nationality, culminating in a sell-out concert at the famous Royal Theatre Carre in Amsterdam to celebrate 40 years on the road. Last year's SA concerts were completely sold out!

For this year’s tour Chris Simpson is joined on stage by Nick Hall.

Nick Hall is best known as one-half of the well-loved acoustic duo The Hall Brothers. With this band he has toured the UK, Ireland and Holland and released several acclaimed albums through indie label Confidential Records. Between Hall Brothers commitments, Nick operates as a solo artist, having released the album ‘The Golden Time’ and the EP ‘Undertow’ which was produced by Dave Reilly (‘China Crisis’) and Chris O’Neill (‘George Harrison’ in the hit film ‘Backbeat’). ‘Undertow’ sold particularly well and received reviews that concentrated on his ‘emotive voice’ and unique song-writing style. Nick is currently also working with Michelle Plum (ex-Chumbawamba) in an exciting duo who are getting booked at major UK festivals and are about to release their debut album.

Nick’s association with Magna Carta began many years ago when The Hall Brothers supported the band in a theatre in the UK. A friendship was instantly struck and The Hall Brothers (and Nick solo) have supported Magna Carta many times over the years. Nick has also worked with several ex-Magna musicians. When Chris Simpson was asked to do a solo set for a UK festival a few years ago, Nick was the first person Chris asked to provide guitars and vocals. This worked so well that the new duo also played a local arts centre to rave reviews. It felt natural, then, for Nick to join the band!

On this South African tour Chris Simpson and Nick Hall will take the audience on a musical journey beyond compare. To see Magna Carta live is never to forget them as they will emblazon themselves in your memory as one of the finest sounds ever to cross your ears. Their music will never age and you will never forget the privilege of having seen MAGNA CARTA LIVE!

Date: Saturday 16 October

Time: 20h00

Venue: Nahoon Beach Lifesavers Shack

Tickets: R100 from Lee Gold Music opposite Checkers in Nahoon

Advance booking essential

Cash bar and food on sale

This is one of their last shows in SA, so we are in for a treat - last year they got better and better as the tour went on.

September, 2010 | 0 Views | Read More...

Brian Finch treats us to show before his European tour
	On Friday 3 September, Nahoon Reef Productions hosts South African and international singer/songwriter Brian Finch, backed by local band The Elevators. The show will be at the Nahoon Beach Lifesavers Shack at 20h00. Tickets are on sale to the public for R80 at Lee Gold Music, opposite Checkers in Nahoon. This show will provide local music lovers with a great opportunity to experience the magic of Brian Finch before he leaves to tour Germany, Holland and the UK. He will perform the old classics as well as his new songs. There is no doubt that the legacy of Finch & Henson still lives on in the songs that South Africans have come to love, like ‘Playgrounds in Paradise’, ‘Kokstad’, and ‘Oh Brother’. Finch is one of South Africa's music legends who just must be seen live. There is an uncanny hair-raising quality to the power in Finch’s voice, and the enjoyment evident in his stage presence makes is very contagious. It’s incredibly difficult not to enjoy his shows. Finch at present is preparing to record his eleventh album, with a live DVD in the making. Recent critics rate Brian Finch’s show 'world class’, and “a top SA artist”, whose half hour encore “takes the cake”! His career has captured the interest of a local journalist, who is filming a documentary on Brian’s music career which spans over 40 yrs. “This is all very exciting.” says Brian, who loves performing for his fans all over the country. Local band The Elevators backed Finch on his last visit to East London, and the show was a sell-out success – one of those roof-raising evenings that people talked about for a long time afterwards. This one promises to be every bit as good and better. You would be wise to book soon, as tickets will be limited. Listen to live recordings from the Brian Finch show on 12 March 2010. Right click the links and save to listen to song 1 and song 2 and song 3.
July, 2010 \| 454 Views \| Read More...

The spellbinding Nibs van der Spuy

On 14 August Nibs van der Spuy played at the Lifesavers Shack to a decent-sized audience who loved his beautiful and mellow music. He also presented a really interesting and useful free Guitar Workshop. We look forward to his next visit.

Nibs van der Spuy is an acoustic guitarist, singer songwriter phenomomen from South Africa. His virtuosic acoustic guitar style and a mesmeric whispering voice have attracted a widespread following for its intelligent folk, world and African overtones. His latest international offering, ‘A BIRD IN THE HAND’ has received accolades and 5 stars from across the globe. Germany’s JAZZTHETIC publication has cited it as a future classic of the folk genre while the GUARDIAN has praised Nibs for producing the most sensitive and breathy songs and instrumentals on the continent.

He has just returned from tours of the UK and France (where he enjoys his biggest international popularity.) Nibs also recently played the prestigious Blues and Roots festival in Australia where he shared the bill with Jack Johnson and Ben Harper.

His latest offering, “A HOUSE ACROSS THE RIVER” was released in April in South Africa with all international releases to follow in September. In July Nibs had a full page article in one of France’s newspapers, LIBERATION and won a Standard Bank Silver Ovation Award at the recent National Arts Festival in Grahamstown.

GUITAR WORKSHOP: Exciting news for guitar enthusiasts is that Nibs will be giving a free guitar workshop at 2.30 pm on the afternoon of the 14 August. Nibs says that the guitar workshop is for anyone interested, no matter how much of a beginner or how advanced you are. He will provide some creative and inspiring ideas in a relaxed atmosphere, where nobody need feel intimidated. He will talk and play and each person attending will get a handout to take home. Even non-guitar players can attend this workshop. In KZN recently, a number of people who could not get into his sold-out show attended Nibs’ guitar workshop instead, in order to hear him play! Please book by email: minkley@nahoonreef.co.za

REVIEWS:

A Bird in the Hand

'A Bird in the Hand’ is expressed through beautifully weighted and filigreed acoustic playing and van der Spuy’s use of compelling metaphors in sensitive appraisal of his homeland’s pain and traumas. Magisterially persuasive. | UNCUT (Jan 2009)

Nibs has set out to produce the most sensitive and breathy songs on the continent with instrumental pieces showing off his classy, gently sturdy guitar work | TheGuardian, UK (Dec 2008)

Nibs van der Spuy may well have succeeded in creating a future classic of the genre. | 5/5 JAZZTHETIK, Germany (Nov 2008)

This is an absolute gem of an album that will draw you in from the very first listen | Bradford Telegraph (Dec 2008)

A discovery, His guitar playing with classical touches and Zulu melodies and his thrilling airy voice is Folk Rock from out of this world | Le Monde, France (Aug 2008)

Elegantly composed guitar work set against an African backdrop | 4/5 The Star, South Africa (Oct 2008)

Without a doubt one of the albums of the year | 4/5 Die Beeld, South Africa (Oct 2008)

Beautiful Feet

Spare simplicity and the sheer radiance of his playing is done to heart rendering effect | Uncut, UK (Jan 2008)

This is a terrific recording that no fan of music at its most unaffected should miss out on. | Billboard (March 07)

Understated folk borrowing from Mali's guitars and the mbaqanga tones is loved … melodies and especially the voice tone, are as soft as an embrace | Les Inrocks, France (Nov 2007)

An album of disarming beauty | Fly.co.uk, UK( Oct 2006 )

A real charmer **** | Dominion Post, New Zealand ( Feb 2007 )

One of the most unexpected releases of the Year | The Guardian, UK (Dec 2006 )

Remarkably beautiful | Sydney Morning Herald, Australia (Dec 2006)

‘Beautiful Feet’ named album of the week on FIP, national radio station in France ( May 2007 )

‘Beautiful Feet’ named album of the month in four major German publications (2007)

BIOGRAPHY:

Nibs van der Spuy

Nibs van der Spuy’s spellbinding acoustic guitar style was first taken notice of, with his band, Landscape Prayers, performing live and on their four highly acclaimed Acoustic/Instrumental albums, between 1993 - 2003. His diversity as a songwriter, singer and finger stylist, reached a broader audience with the release of his solo albums; 'Lines on my Face' (1999) and 'Flower in the Rain' (2002). Both these acoustic gems were nominated in the best instrumental category at the South African Music Awards.

Nibs' versatility to cross pollinate various musical styles from African, Classical, Celtic, World, Maskanda, Indian and folk can be fully appreciated on his first International release, 'Beautiful Feet' (2007). It has received rave reviews from the London Guardian to the Sydney Herald, and in May 2007, was album of the month in four major German publications. This has been accompanied by intensive touring across the globe with a highlight being the prestigious East Coast Blues & Roots festival in Byron Bay, Australia. Here Nibs shared the stage with such luminaries as Ben Harper, Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt, Bela Fleck and Piers Faccini.

Besides his own solo career, Nibs got to record a beautiful duo album, 'Sweet-Thorn' (2004) with Mozambican, Gito Baloi and 'Hadeda' (2004) with drummer extraordinaire, Barry van Zyl, from Johnny Clegg's band. He has also got to perform and record with folk legend, Shawn Phillips and Italian band, the Modena City Ramblers.

Mostly touring as a soloist, Nibs also plays across the globe with his young virtuoso guitarist/multi- instrumentalist friend Guy Buttery. In 2008, Nibs toured South Africa and France with Piers Faccini and finished recording the international follow up to 'Beautiful Feet', called - 'A Bird in the Hand' – which was released in September. This album promises to spread Nibs to larger audience around the world. He has just returned from a second tour of France where he was pick of the prestigious Rocheford en Accord festival reviewed by the Le Monde (France’s leading newspaper).

2009 holds many plans for Nibs, kicking off in March with a tour of France, followed by dates in Italy, the UK and Australia.

ALBUM OVERVIEW:

A Bird in the Hand

Nibs van der Spuy’s ‘A Bird in the Hand’ comes hot on the heels of his internationally critically acclaimed, ‘Beautiful Feet’. These eleven new songs have again got the natural, out of time, pacified and rural utopic spirit of the East Coast of Africa.

There is a light that surrounds Nibs which illuminates like a heat wave in his call for redemption, contentment with what one has and shedding off old demons. Previously described byJohana Seban of Les Inrocks magazine (France),as him having the soft disturbing ghost of Nick Drake, in his guitar playing, melodies and especially voice tone. One really has to hear and be touched that on this outing Nibs has truly come into his own. The power of each song talks to the inner soul as if something is intrinsically happening to you like a prophetic anointing.

With his precise organic acoustic guitar playing and his soft mesmerizing voice, one can visualize Nibs walking into the warm Indian Ocean and washing his hands for some kind of atonement of sins, leaving behind a ravaged past. One wouldn’t sing about, ‘I pray the angels put my mind to rest’, ‘have you ever felt the calling of the wind where you pack your bags and heart for everything’, ‘the wars they came to steal your soul’, the metaphoric ocean of ‘Shaded in Blue’ and being face to face with your darkest hour just before the dawn, if you hadn’t walked that journey. Reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen’s call for revelation at the Mexican border in ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad’, Nibs cries out for answers and freedom at the cross roads of Mozambique and Kwa-Zulu.

In January 2008, UNCUT magazine described his uniqueness as ‘Spare simplicity and sheer radiance of his playing done to heart rendering effect’. ‘A Bird in the Hand’ takes that a few steps further in each sonic picture it paints. You can see his dark olive skin, his long plaited beard of a prophet, his hardened feet from the rugged coastline and the holes in his clothes. In his pocket lie the keys of new found wisdom, new beginnings, new love and a positive message for those who want to lend their ears.

MORE REVIEWS:

A Bird in the Hand

“Nibs has set out to produce the most sensitive and breathy songs on the continent with instrumental pieces showing off his classy, gently sturdy guitar work.”

Robin Denselow, The Guardian, UK ( Dec 08 )

“With A Bird in the Hand, Nibs van der Spuy may well have succeeded in creating a future classic of the genre.”

5/5 JAZZTHETIK, Germany

“A discovery, the South African Nibs van der Spuy who originates from Durban. His guitar playing with classical touches and Zulu melodies and his thrilling airy voice is a Folk Rock from elsewhere.”

Le Monde, France ( 23 Aug 2008 )

“Spare simplicity and the sheer radiance of his playing is done to heart rendering effect"

Uncut Jan 2008

BEAUTIFUL FEET

"This understated folk borrow from Mali's guitars and the mbaqanga tones loved by Paul Simon a time ago. The ghost of Nick Drake floats upon the whole album, the similarity in the guitar playing, melodies and especially the voice tone, soft as an embrace, is disturbing."

Johana Seban, Les Inrocks, France (Dec 2007)

"Beautiful feet" offers pure compositions in which Nick Drake's ghost rubs shoulders with Tablas and harmonium echoes and the evocation of mutations current in Africa. With his voice as a murmur, Nibs drones out his memories, softly, like a bearer of good news"

Vibrations Music, France ( Oct 2007 )

"This South African singer intended first to become a stringed instrument maker, and when we listen to his songs, it's a bit as we watched him in his workshop shaping by hand a beautiful wood instrument."

Cyril Sauvageot, France Inter, 23 Jan 2008 )

"Forget your pre-conceived ideas of South African music. If you like a bit of Nick Drake or Richard Thompson, with A little GRACELAND, search out this album and give it a go. You will be very pleasantly surprised."

4/5 Birmingham Post, UK

“This gentle, thoughtful set mixes quiet, sturdy melodies with low-key vocals and influences, from British folk baroque to a dash of India and reggae.

There is even a drifting, piano and viola-backed treatment of Nick Drake's Road. Instrumental Jukskei bursts with township vitality, but for the most part the mood is low-key, tuneful melancholia, with several songs paying tribute to his friend, the late Gito Baloi, a Mozambican singer who can be heard on the gentle, bluesy bonus track Mountain Wind."

The London Guardian, UK

"Beautiful Feet is a showcase of Nibs' skills as a musician and lyricist. Some songs will give you goose bumps and make you want to cry – others will warm your blood with their subtle Latin rhythms. Do yourself a favour, buy this album. It really is special."

Rebecca Khan, SL Magazine, South Africa

"The album as a whole is really brilliant. It's rich and warm, filled with genuine sentiments and honesty, all brilliantly delivered in a masterful way by a truly gifted musician"

5/5 Matthew Christensen, www.mio.co.za, South Africa

"An extraordinary album where the singing recalls very early Cat Stevens. i.e. Mona Bone Jakon), where the musicianship of both van der Spuy and young guitarist Guy Buttery is reminiscent of Davey Graham and Bert Jansch, where there are moments of pure, idyllic 1960's innocence and where the lyrics are full of peace and love and hope for the harmony of the world. This is the third album of van der Spuy, a South African. He might be about 40 years too late to catch the first hippie wave, but the sound he makes and the sentiments he expresses are still remarkably beautiful, touching and gloriously optimistic."

Bruce Elder, The Sydney Morning Herald

"Van der Spuy masterfully evokes the sense-soaked experience of living in South Africa's Kwa-Zulu Natal province in particular and South Africa in General, on his latest release that once again confirms his status as a Songwriter and performer of substance. But even though songs like 'Hiding in the Sugar Cane', and 'Jukskei' locate Van Der Spuy on African soil, this is Folk music at its most far-reaching - the set of songs on 'Beautiful Feet' will float easily into the lives of a global audience, drawn in by the distinct acoustic melodies, sparse production, subtle influences (African roots, Eastern) and emotion-laden stories. Certainly, this is a terrific recording that no fan of music at its most unaffected should miss out on."

Diane Coetzer, Billboard

“Nibs van der Spuy is something like the South African Ben Harper. He made a name for himself with his band Landscape Prayers. As an instrumentalist he effortlessly mixes, Blues, Reggae, Folk, Pop and a bit of Indian music. What forms the bulk of these songs is the gentle voice which reminds of Ben Harper. Musically, van der Spuy acts almost reserved to put his virtuosic playing in the centre, but rather the song. So what distinguishes the album is its rather relaxed, peaceful atmosphere and exciting musical display."

Amazon, Web, Tontrager, Germany

“It will be a shame not to know Nibs van der Spuy on his great album, "Beautiful Feet". One will discover a brilliant acoustic/slide guitarist with a restrained voice who writes soft and warm songs, as well as instrumentals that partly refer to British Folk Roots (like Richard Thompson) or acoustic songs of the Allman Brothers Band. He sings with Nick Drake's soft melancholy seriousness and Cat Steven's pop – like sensitivity. These collections of songs represent a natural sound culture that leaves every instrument its authentic timbre in a homogeneous sound, and pictures details clearly. It is an ideal combination of artistic inspiration and musical brilliance."

Audio Live, Germany

"I just discovered: Nibs van der Spuy, a South African guitar player and singer. His CD "Beautiful Feet" has just been released in Germany and was presented on Bayern 2 radio on Pentecost Monday. I was driving, on my way back from an old friend's wedding, everyone in the car was a little sleepy and it was raining cats and dogs on the motorway. And then this wonderful music came from the car stereo, a rough, but endearing voice, a filigree acoustic guitar, which sometimes sounds like folk, or jazz and always wonderfully playful, and the whole world plays along on ethnic instruments of all kinds: "Nibs who? What's the spelling? Spy? Nipps? A few days later, I discovered via allmusic.com how the new and better Jack Johnson is spelled correctly, and: Amazon sells the CD already. Now I'm sitting at home and listen to an album, of which today I am already sure that it'll accompany me for a long time. As if an old friend has returned and plays the guitar while it's raining...". 5 stars

Customer review, Amazon, Germany

July, 2010 | 218 Views | Read More...

Napalma at Gonubie Festival on 29 May

Don't miss a great opportunity to party to Napalma at the Gonubie Festival on Saturday 29 May.

Napalma is a musical inspiration born out of the interaction between Brazil and Africa. Created in 2004 in Vitoria, Espirito Santo, Brazil they are discovering new ways to incite dance floor fever using melodies using electronic programming, exotic vocals and hypnotic drum beats.

The show is the result of powerful electronic dance grooves, percussions and rhythms from the rich Afro Brazilian musical heritage of samba, baião, western African mixed with a performatic impact and inspiring vocals in Portuguese, English and Shangaan (from Mozambique).

Napalma have been on the road for five years, travelling around Brazil, Europe and Africa. They have done numerous shows in Mozambique and South Africa, including the Awesome Africa Music Festival in Durban, Vodafone New Years Eve Party in Inhambane and Vortex New Years Festival near Cape Town. They have almost reached the 500 performance mark.

Napalma is:

Ivo Maia: Mozambican . Vocals.

Rafael Jabah: Brazilian. Electronic programming and percussion.

Cid Travaglia: Brazilian. Djembé and electronic percussion.  

Napalma visited East London in December and those who were lucky enough to hear them were blown away by their energy and vibrant sound – as they played their first notes, the dance floor was full – with no age restriction evident amongst the dancers. Napalma is difficult to describe – not simply a live electronic music act or a world music band – they are all that and much more.

Website:
www.napalma.com

MySpace:
www.myspace.com/napalma

Photo by Mia Davila

May, 2010 | 0 Views | Read More...

Farryl Purkiss comes to EL because he likes the Eastern Cape a lot

Farryl Purkiss will play at the Nahoon Lifesavers Clubhouse on Saturday 1 May around 20h00. Tickets are R60 prebooked at Lee Gold, or R80 at the door.

Farryl Purkiss is a South African born singer-songwriter. Farryl first picked up the guitar when he was fifteen years old and began writing songs shortly after his sixteenth birthday. He self released an EP in 2005 that created waves in Durban and later that year began talks with 2Feet Music. He was signed to 2Feet Music soon after and started performing heavily outside of South Africa leading up to the release of his full length debut album, released in South Africa in 2007, to high acclaim, chart success and award nominations. He has since spent most of his time touring the world with over 140 gigs in 2007 and early 2008.

“Fruitbats & Crows” (2009) is the long awaited follow up to Farryl Purkiss’ 2006 internationally critically acclaimed self titled album. In the past three years, Purkiss has toured Australia three times, Europe, USA and of course, South Africa. He’s had radio success in all of the above territories including Japan and a #1 in France with “La-Di-Da”. His songs have been used in campaigns by Nissan (Greece), Audi (UK), MTN (South Africa) as well as placement in the international film “Adopted” (featuring Pauly Shore). In 2007 he was voted the most popular musician by Heat Magazine (South Africa) and has been featured by every major newspaper, magazine, TV show and radio station in South Africa as well as an ambassador for Woolworths.

This album was produced by one of South Africa’s most successful producers, Brian O’Shea, who is responsible for albums by Watershed, Arno Carstens, Saron Gas, Sugardrive and Jesse Clegg, to mention a few. The album contains 12 brand new tracks and feature international guest musicians such as Ash Grunwald (Australia) and John Ellis (Tree 63).

· Over 5000 units sold in South Africa (Debut album)

· SOUTH AFRICAN CHARTING –

5FM - Top 40 with “Better days”, peaked at #3 with “Ducking and Diving”. (Approx 1.4 Million listeners)

Highveld 94.7 - Top 10 with “Ducking and Diving” and “Better Days” (Approx 1.1 Million Listeners)

“Playlisted on Key AC station, Jacaranda FM (Approx 1.5 Million listeners)

All key Campus Stations - Top 10 on TuksFM, UJFM, PUK FM, MFM, UCT Radio

“A Million Grains Of Sand” currently playlisted on stations such as Highveld Stereo, RSG, Campus Stations nationally (combined listenership of approx 4 million)

· #1 hit on French national radio (FIP) with “La-Di-Da” and OUI FM (Paris)

· Used for Audi TT’s Remastered (UK) advertising campaign in 2007 with his cover of Bob Dylan’s “Positively Fourth Street”. His cover was personally approved by Dylan.

· Toured Australia, UK, France and Germany in 2007 and USAin 2008

· Performed at Musexpo in 2008 at House Of Blues on Sunset Boulevard

· Played at Hofstra University’s Spring Day Festival to over 10 000 people

· Supported Amy Speace at The Living Room (NYC) and Goldhawk (New Jersey)

· Video playlisted on MTV Pulse (France)

· Playlisted on national and regional stations in Australia including NOVA

· Performed at Big Day Out in Perth, and Blues and Roots in Byron bay in 2007

· Play listing on 82 radio stations in Germany

· Charted on Tokyo FM in Japan

· Featured artist on Tokyo FM in Japan

· Reviewed in Q, Uncut, Huck, Mojo, Hit Sheet, Rock n Reel and TNT in the UK

· CD of the month in Live Magazin Saar (Germany)

· 5 movie placements and 3 sync’s for TV advertising campaigns

· “La Di Da” used in a TV advertising campaign for MTN (South Africa’s second biggest mobile phone service providers).

· Nominated for Best Adult Contemporary Album at the South African Music Awards

· Heat Magazine (South Africa’s biggest celebrity magazine) Hot 100 #19 most popular celebrity and #1 most popular musician (as voted for by the public)

· Toured with Donovan Frankenreiter, Ben Lee , Bob Evans (in Australia) and South African dates with Missy Higgins

· Headlined Highveld Stereo’s Homebrew gig (Sold Out – over 1000 people)

· Invited to support Joe Jackson on South African tour in 2008

· Performing at the Goldcoast Festival (Devon, UK) alongside Donovan Frankenreiter

· Headlined South African Festival, Woodstock 9 (2007). Played to over 10 000 people.

· Played 23 gigs in 30 days on Australian tour with Bob Evans. The pair performed in major and surrounding cities, including Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Tasmania, to more than 7 000 people collectively.

www.myspace.com/purkissmusic www.farrylpurkiss.com www.2feetmusic.com

April, 2010 | 267 Views | Read More...

Dan Patlansky Guitar Assault!
	Dan Patlansky and his band will play at the Old Selbornian Club (cnr Pearce Street and Old Transkei Road, Stirling) on Wednesday 31 March at 19h30. Support Act: Meri-Ke. Tickets from Lee Gold Music, Old Transkei Road (opp Checkers Nahoon) from Wed 17 March. Phone 043 7351586. For more info: Cheryl 083 797 3546. What Dan Patlansky can do with a six-string Fender Stratocaster at the age of 26, most critically acclaimed guitarists will never quite achieve in a lifetime. In only ten years on the music scene, Dan Patlansky is one of the busiest and most respected blues artists to ever come out of South Africa. Constant touring as a teenager, won Dan the hearts of even the most hardened blues critics. In the winter of 2001, “Standing at the Station” was released, being a completely independent album, many were surprised at its amazing success. After receiving word that “Readers Choice” had voted him “Best Blues Guitarist in Southern Africa”, it was time for a second release. “True Blues” was produced and released by EMI on the famed “Blue Note label” in 2004. Dan is one of the only South Africans to ever achieve “Blue Note” status. In February 2005 and again in July 2006, Selwyn Miller, New Orleans based manager of David Gates and Bread, Randy Crawford, and Petula Clark amongst others, brought Dan to New Orleans to showcase this amazing talent. In his time living in the city of the Blues, Patlansky performed at legendry venues (Maple Leaf, Rock & Bowl and Checkpoint Charlie) with many Blues giants such as Henry Gray (Howlin’ Wolf’s Pianist), Snooks Eaglin, The Batiste Family, Rockin Dopsie Jr and many more. Whilst abroad, Dan performed live on both television and WWOZ radio. What this South African boy achieved in a few months, and the following he built up, many thought would have taken years. Touring was cut short due to Hurricane Katrina and he was deprived of the opportunity to play with legendary and world renowned slide guitarist, Sonny Landreth, which performance was scheduled to take place a week after Dan and Selwyn were forced to evacuate New Orleans. Patlansky moved back to his home country leaving a lot of equipment behind. Dan is still in contact with Grammy award winning producer, David Z, with whom he spent two days writing and arranging on his first trip to New Orleans. Fender recognised Dan’s fiery playing and offered him an endorsement deal to promote Fender Guitars and amps. Dan is one of only six Fender endorsed guitarists in South Africa. Dan has played, and more often than not headlined every major venue and music festival in the South Africa eg Oppikoppi, Aardklop (with Arno Carstens’ guitarist Albert Frost), The Durban International Blues Festival (where he performed with veteran New York blues guitarist, Phillip Walker and Pat Savage), The North Sea Jazz Festival (CT), Southern Cross, the Walking the Blues Concert, White Mountain Festival, Up the Creek Festival, Cape Town Blues Summit, Splashy Fen, The Catalina Theatre (Durban) and the Sand du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein, BMW Pavilion, Green Dolphin, Die Boer (CT), Blues Room and Tanz Café (Jhb) and many more. Dan continues to extensively tour small towns to big cities. Europe, UK and Australia are on the cards for 2008/2009. In 2004 Dan was invited to perform at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Concert, headlined by Earl Klugh and Lee Ritenoir, but had to decline due to prior tour commitments. At the One World Music Festival (Durban) in 2005 he performed with the renowned New Orleans Batiste family band and shared the stage with the likes of Bob Marley’s son Julian Marley, and past American Idols winner Ruben Studdard. The concert was attended by the President of Parliament of the State of Louisiana. He was so blown away by Patlansky’s performance that he promised him the freedom of New Orleans when next he was there. Unfortunately Hurricane Katrina deprived Dan of this honour. In 2005 Dan performed in Dubai at the annual Coca Cola Company celebration, along with UB40 and Shaggy. In 2006 Dan Patlansky performed with his New Orleans band at the Cape Town International Jazz Fest sharing top billing with Jose Feliciano, Miriam Makeba, Lou Vega and Freddie Coleman. Dan collaborated with top R&B artist RJ Benjamin on one of the tracks of RJ’s recently released and highly acclaimed album “Swimming in the soul of music”, one critic stating that the collaboration took the album to another level. Dan was one of the headline acts with Hugh Masakela and Freshlyground at the newly established international Bushfire Concert in Swaziland in 2007. Similarly he performed at the first Johannesburg Guitar Festival with the likes of Greg Georgiades, Jethro Butow, the headline acts being Dan, followed by Mauritz Lotz. Earlier this year Dan played at the Old Mutual Jazz and Blues Roots concert at Emmerentia Botanical Gardens, with international artist Michelle Shocked and Dan, as the two headline and concluding acts. Dan has recently returned from Mozambique where he headlined the annual STRAB (Subterranean Rhythm and Blues) Festival. His performance was voted best by far in voting polls. Shortly thereafter, he headlined the Tribute to Jimi Hendrix show at Café Barcelona in Pretoria, which included performances by, amongst others, Jan Blohm, Albert Frost and Mel Botes. Dan has also been approached by Danny K to collaborate with him on a song to be recorded by top South African performers in the fight against crime. Dan over the years, has shared the stage many times with legendry blues artists and guitarists such as Larry Amos, Julian Laxton, Steve Fataar (ex Beach Boys / Flames), Cedric Sampson, Valiant Swart, The Late big voice Jack (who performed with Mango Groove and the Dave Mathews Band) and Alistair Coakley. Dan recently performed at The Catalina Theatre in Durban with Vicki Sampson. Dan has been played and/or play listed by many South African DJs and stations such as 5FM, East Coast radio, SAFM Radio 2000, O FM, Bush Radio, countless student stations and Radio To-day (Benjy Mudie, Rafe Levine, Phil Wright, Chris Prior, David Blood, Leon Economedes). This young blues guitarist has now released his third album “Real” which showcases his song-writing abilities using an earthy live blues sound with his own take on it. “Real” has attracted great reviews and articles in most acclaimed magazines. His album “Real” is played in Australia on 101 FM and in America on WWOZ FM New Orleans on which Dan played live and on which he has been play listed since 2005. “Real” and Patlansky received a brilliant review in the May / June 2008 edition (Issue 43) of top Blues Magazine, Blues Matters!, which circulates throughout the UK, Europe, Canada and Australia. Out of approximately 150 CD Reviews of Albums by UK, European, Canadian, Australian and American artists, accredited critic, Merv Osborne had this, amongst other things, to say about “Real” and Patlansky: “I don’t think I’m going to hear a better album all year. ..... It’s gonna have to be a truly superb CD to better this one”. “Real” is also about to be reviewed by top UK music journalist Rhys Williams for intended publication in other UK magazines and some top American Blues Magazines. TV guest appearances: MNET reality show, Project Fame (2004) SABC International interviews Top Billing (2006) Dit is hoe dit is met Steve (Kyknet 2007) Various TV interviews (SABC 2004 – 2008) Music video, produced by Eduan van Jaarsveld of Stealthdonkey Productions to be released soon and play listed on MK. Dan is accompanied in South Africa by Andy Turrel or Theron Peterson (USA) on drums, and Errol “Smelly” Fellows (ex Pleasure Machine P/E) on bass. His sidemen in the US are David Batiste Sr (keyboards), who has worked with Gladys Knight and the Pips and The Meters, Stanley Perkins Jr (bass) and Jamal or Alvin Batiste (drums). “Dan Patlansky is one of the most renowned and fiery blues artists in the southern hemisphere and one of the greatest I’ve ever seen.”- David Batiste Sr.” (New Orleans) “Dan has some of the fastest fingers I’ve ever seen” – Phillip Walker (New York) “Dan is a great guitarist and ranks with the best” – Selwyn Miller (New Orleans) “I love Dan’s guitar playing!” – Dozi (South Africa) Dan Patlansky's Guitar Assault!
March, 2010 \| 0 Views \| Read More...

Dino Miranda - a special treat
	MOZAMBICAN AFRO-POP/WORLDMUSIC ARTIST FOR EL Vocalist, guitarist and composer Dino Miranda and his 6 piece band comes to EL on Friday 9 April. Dino Miranda graduated from the Faculty Of Music (Jazz Studies) at the University of Cape Town, and has collaborated with artists worldwide, including Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe, England, Holland, Brazil, Jamaica. He has worked with Stewart Sukuma, Chico Antonio, Jeff Maluleke, Teba, Azania, 340ml, Freshly Ground, Napalma, Chris Hinze, Peter Spencer, Prince Malachi, Starkey Banton, Mama B, Dawit Menalik Tafari and others. His music is described as a fusion of African music with Worldrock, Funk, Reggae, Latin and more, and is influenced by Mozambican and World music. He launches his first album ''Moya Wa Kaya'' on a nationwide tour, which includes East London. Have a listen to some of his tracks on www.myspace.com/dinomiranda or on this Mozambican Afro-Pop/World Music and visit www.dinomiranda.com to find out more.
March, 2010 \| 0 Views \| Read More...

Brian Finch brings the good times back to EL again
	It seems that we East Londoners aren’t all that keen on taking chances. We like to be sure of what we are going to hear before we allow ourselves to go out and hear it. So here is the good news. Brian Finch has been tried and tested by an East London audience and he passed with flying colours last year. He’s back here on his second visit and this time he will be backed by local rock band The Elevators. Now there’s a recipe for a good show. Decidedly worth getting out of the house for. Definitely good value for the babysitter fee. Brian Finch, known to many by his Finch and Henson fame, is a legend of South African music. Kahuna surfers will remember him for the laid back and evocative soundtrack to the surf movie ‘Playgrounds in Paradise’. Anyone who spent time in Durban will recall hazy and enjoyable evenings at local pubs with the duo. And those who were lucky enough to be at his East London concert last year will not have forgotten the passion with which he delivers his songs. He seems to love playing and playing and playing – good value for money (another bonus for every genuine East Londoner). Here is an opportunity to hear a true Country Rock performer at his best. Brian Finch's recorded career began in 1974 when Bringing Back the Good Times hit the shelves. Since then Brian has played on many albums, most notably with Ken E Henson with whom he worked closely for many years. In 2002 he produced the solo album Hero of Heroes, and since then has recorded the compelling Eden and Never Look Back. His show will feature some new songs written for his 11th album to be recorded at the end of March, as well as a decent smattering of very popular golden oldies (like ‘Playground in Paradise’, ‘Oh Brother’, ‘Free and Easy’) and songs from his latest three albums (Eden, Hero of Heroes and Never Look Back). After his visit to East London and current tour of SA, Brian Finch will travel to Namibia, UK, Germany, Cyprus and China. Now that you know what to expect, book the babysitter and get ready to enjoy an evening of excellent music with this ever popular, successful, singer songwriter, a gathering of good friends around you, easy supper on hand and drinks at club prices – what more would you want? And it’s a weekend night! Brian Finch (and The Elevators) will play at the Nahoon Lifesavers Club on Friday 12 March, starting at 19h30. Entrance is R70. Supper will be on sale and cash bar available. Show and sound produced by Nahoon Reef Productions. Tickets can (and should) be pre-booked at Lee Gold Music opposite Checkers in Nahoon, or by phoning 083 797 3546.
March, 2010 \| 0 Views \| Read More...