Ubunye

The pounding rhythms of Africa blended with the explosive energy of a live band. This vibrant group of Zulu performers combined with seasoned musicians from the UK mix ancient tradition with contemporary flare. Ubunye deliver a soulful, goose bump inducing performance of original pieces cleverly fused with South African songs. It is a fantastic multi-cultural experience.

Ubunye won the best UK jazz ensemble award at the prestigious Parliamentary Jazz awards 2023 and now the vibrant Afro-jazz band Ubunye release their new album ‘Tell me the Truth. Featuring two powerful vocalists from South Africa’s Kwa Zulu Natal region combined with a dynamic rhythm section and an array of guest artists Ubunye’s music is a unique blend of contemporary jazz, Afro-pop and traditional ‘Isigqui’ Zulu music.

Ubunye (loosely translated as ‘Oneness’ or ‘Unity’) is the conception of keyboard player and lead songwriter David Evans, who first collaborated with baritone singer Xolani Mbatha at a festival that he was running in Leeds. Having put together a successful project for the festival, the working relationship between Evans and Mbatha flourished, eventually resulting in the recruitment of their most talented colleagues. The new exciting Ubunye line up consists of the renowned jazz drummer Steve Hanley, distinguished Leeds musicians Nik Svarc and Sam Dutton – Taylor on guitar and bass respectively, as well as singers Xolani Mbatha and Nokuthula Zondi, who as a trio (along with Evans on backing vocals) perfectly compliment each other and provide a robust sonic force.

nb This event takes place on a Tuesday at Seven Arts