(Tlale
Makhene)
One of South Africa’s most remarkable
drumming talents, Tlale Makhene has been in the music business for about 20
years. Highly regarded by musicians and musical fans alike, he has been
featured in more than 300 jazz and world music albums and is a much sought-after
indigenous music teacher, session musician and performer.
He will appear at UKZN’s Centre for Jazz and
the KZNSA Gallery this week with his band which comprises Bongani Sokhela on
bass guitar, Paki Peloeole on drums and Sibu Mashiloane on keys. The
performances are supported by Concerts SA and SAMRO Foundation.
Gentle, focused and extremely wise for his
years, he renders his listeners calm with his confident, soft-spoken voice. One
of the finest jazz album releases around, one can sense his strength of a
character through the music. With many Latino influences, beautiful piano
pieces and soothing African vocals, the album is a far cry from simply a
drumming album – it is a celebration of musical styles. A fusion of raw talent
and honed skills, blending with the traditional elements that make these songs
some of the best loved around.
His spiritual album, The Ascension of the Enlightened, is a sincere offering from a
truly enlightened man. Born in Soweto, Tlale moved to Swaziland at a young age
and began drumming at the age of four. Tlale Makhene has indeed been blessed.
As a debut album, the quality and sophistication of the Ascension of The Enlightened is ageless and will be loved by many
generations to come. The album was nominated and won the MTN SAMA award for
Best contemporary Album. He was contending this category with established
artists such as Hugh Masekela, Paul Hanmer, Water + Lights and Themba Mkhize.
“My ancestors remain close by to guide and
protect me as long as I honour them and respect people” he says simply.
Makhene will perform on October 9 at the UKZN
Centre for Jazz & Popular Music. Tickets R35 (R20 pensioners and R10 UKZN
Students)
He will also appear on October 11 at the KZNSA
Gallery in Glenwood at 18h00. Tickets R60 booked through 031 201 9969.
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