New York (NY), USA – On October 17th, S.O.B.’s presents Afro-pop icon, Oliver Mtukudzi, in his first New York area appearance since the August 2007 release of his acclaimed album Tsimba Itsoka. One of the most powerful creative forces to emerge from Zimbabwe in the last three decades, Mtukudzi carefully balances compelling rhythms and accessible melodies with insightful lyrics, building a vast body of work that is politically and socially relevant, yet entertaining and accessible to a worldwide audience.
Mtukudzi is such a musical force that his name has become synonymous with his style, and “Tuku music” has evolved into something quite distinct from any other Zimbabwean music. Clearly, his cultural influences are evident – the traditional forms of the mbira, the South African mbaqanga style, and the popular Zimbabwean music style called jiti, are all evident in his sound – but these have been distilled into an aesthetic that is now very much his own.Performing with Mtukudzi is rising star saxophonist Max Wild, who, since moving to New York from Zimbabwe in 2002, has been turning heads on the Big Apple music scene. His sound sets him apart, spanning continents with a collision of African and Western ambiance. Born in Germany, Max had a childhood in Zimbabwe, and then perfected his craft in London and Manhattan. He posesses the unique ability to fuse African and Jazz influences, and has already worked with Oliver Mtukudzi, as well as Grammy nominated jazz tenorist Mark Turner, and the New York based African Blue Notes.
In August 2006, Oliver performed for a sold out crowd at S.O.B.’s, creating a New York buzz that still has fans asking about his next concert. He followed up in the summer of 2007 with his latest album, Tsimba Itsoka, which was released in late August to much acclaim, and further built excitement for his October 17th play at S.O.B.’s, his first New York appearance since the album’s release.
Ticket Info: $28 Advance/$30 Day of Show
Available at ticketmaster and S.O.B.’s Box Office—212-243-4940
Early Show: 8pm; Late Show: 10:30pm (Separate Admission)
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Buy Tsimba Itsoka and Nhava.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central
