Abavuki

ABOUT//
Abavuki are an Afro-Fusion World Music Ensemble from Langa, Cape Town, and have been playing their infectious upbeat grooves across SA and internationally since 2001. These talented multi-instrumentalists play traditional African instruments (drums, percussion & marimbas) overlaid with brass (trumpet & trombone) to create their unique, vibrant & contemporary Mzansi sound, firmly based on African music principles & influenced by kwaito, jazz and Latin American rhythms.

The Xhosa name “Abavuki” means ‘Wake up, early birds!’ and this attitude is palpable in Abavuki’s high-energy, uplifting music that reflects the band’s optimistic outlook on life and their approach to music-making.

Winners of multiple awards including the IMEXSA 2015 Export of the Year, Abavuki have released various albums, performed at top local & international festivals including being selected for Womex 2014, toured Europe (Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland and more) & China, and a career highlight, were commissioned to record “Africa got Soul” to celebrate Motown’s 50th anniversary.

Interaction:
Abavuki can offer interactive drumming (with additional drums provided for the audience). They also do a dance called the Abavuki shuffle which they have performed all over the world and SA, and is great for getting a crowd involved!

Configurations:
Abavuki is a 6 – 8 piece band, but smaller configurations are available on request. The band also works with local African dancers, both traditional & street dance, and can offer a music and dance show suited to any event.