Monoswezi is a multinational collective of musicians originally from Mozambique, Norway, Sweden and Zimbabwe. Monoswezi was formed thanks to a cultural exchange program between Africa and Norway in 2008. Hallvard Godal lived in Mozambique and met Calu Tsemane. Soon after, Tsemane and Zimbabwean Hope Masike connected with Godal back in Norway and began making music together.
Monoswezi’s musicians share a passion for traditional African music in general, and specially music from Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The music includes traditional and original compositions rooted in traditional African music, jazz and western influences.
Band members include Hope Masike on vocals, mbira, percussion; Calu Tsemane on vocals, percussion; Hallvard Godal on saxophone, clarinet, harmonium; Putte Johander on bass; and Erik Nylander on drums and percussion
Discography:
The Village (Riverboat Records, 2013)
Monoswezi Yenga (Riverboat Records, 2015)
A Je (Riverboat Records, 2017)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.