Ubunye
“A joyous celebration and proof, should it be needed, of the creative energy and unitypossible when cultures meet through the medium of music.” Steve Mead, Artistic Director, manchester jazz festival.
Ubunye is a vibrant seven piece Afro Jazz/dance band based in the UK, featuring threevocalists from Kwa Zulu Natal in South Africa and a four piece rhythm section. The music isan inspirationalblend of jazz, Isigqi-traditional Zulu music-and Afro-pop. High energyAfrican beats and traditional sounds morph into more contemporary musical styles. Telling stories of human struggles with themes of universal resonance, Ubunye haverecently completed a successful tour across the North of England including sell out shows at jazz clubs and festivals.
Ubunye is currently in the studio and on the verge of releasing their debut album, which will showcase a blend of Jazz, Dance and Afro Beat blended uniquely with the soul of South Africa. Highlights of the recent tour included headlining the Manchester Jazz Festival showcase, Lancaster Jazz Festival and also a week long residency at Opera North for songwriters Thandanani Gumede and Dave Evans.
“In the moment, it seemed hard to believe that anything so propulsive and joyous could cometo a halt. The same could be said about the applause and shouts that followed.no one who hadn't heard them perform before could quite anticipate the ways in which Ubunye would be remarkable.” Wakefield Jazz
