November jazz at the Pavilion

Entertainment Reporter
The Pavilion will beginning tomorrow host what has been dubbed “November Jazz Month”, a two-day festival featuring seasoned musicians the likes of Oliver Mtukudzi, Edith WeUtonga, Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana and Victor Kunonga.

Also on the bill are Tariro neGitare, Rumbi Tavaziva, Jazz Invitation as well as Tinashe Makura. Besides the music, the family show will include entertainment for children starting at 12 noon to 7pm where they would have fun playing on jumping castles.

Jazz Invitation, Kunonga, Tinashe Makura and Tariro neGitare are expected to perform on stage on Saturday while Oliver Mtukudzi and the Blacks Spirits will perform on Sunday together with Edith WeUtonga.

Kunonga has been a notable part of Zimbabwean music since 2004 when he came on to the local music scene as a vocalist and guitarist.

Immediately becoming a music sensation, he established himself as an exceptional artist, forming his band Peace with whom he has incredible musical chemistry.

He is a frequent performer at local venues and has carved out an enviable career as a performer and self-taught guitarist.

He is also a talented songwriter who has won many loyal fans with his popular songs, “Hatinete”, “Maidarirei” and “Kure”. About being a musician, Kunonga says, “I love making music, it is a fascinating art form to draw and paint my ideas and to convey a message through rhythm and melody.” Kunonga’s music is distinctive and its rhythms embrace an off-beat timing that is innovative and cutting edge.

His first album, “Such is Life” released in 2004, was soon followed by the 2006 album “Uyo”. His most recent album, “Hatinete” was released in 2010 and cemented his reputation as one of the legends-in-the-making who is defining a new generation of local music. Kunonga has completed his fourth album which is one to look out for and set to be released in the near future.

Victor and his band are a tight outfit whose sound has an ongoing appeal to music-lovers. Kunonga writes all his own songs and is a masterful lyricist and storyteller, combining irresistible melodies in a classic Afro-beat style.

Kunonga’s music is especially popular because of his lyrical content. His songs deftly interweave social commentary and reflect the voices of Zimbabweans emerging from crisis and social inequality.

WeUtonga is one of the sought-after bassist to emerge from Zimbabwe. She is also an accomplished songwriter, singer and an actress in her own right. When it comes to live performances WeUtonga knows how to thrill her audiences.

Also not to be outdone is sultry vocalist Prudence known for her soothing music. Possessing stage presence and charm, Prudence is a pleasure to listen to.