A relatively well-known jazz band, Ba-Akgisane Afro Jazz, is unearthing and harnessing the finest young musicians in Thaba Nchu. The group is in the limelight for their stunning performances and offering of nostalgic music.
Apart from performing at gigs in Thaba Nchu and Botshabelo, the group also performs at wedding ceremonies in the Free State and across South Africa. The group is made up of Llyod Thoabala (saxophone), Xolani Mocodwane (bass guitarist), Olebogeng Modisaesi (keyboard), Lungile Matthews (drummer), Katlego Moremi (vocalist) and Sello Thinane (founder).
Affectionately known as Zillo, Thinane founded the band in 2006. A musically inclined individual, he plays the flute, guitar, and trumpet besides performing as the lead singer of the band. His vast experience has come in handy with blending the youthful band and enabling members to unleash their full potential.
Thinane said the first generation of band members left to pursue careers that do not revolve around music. He said the present crop of members, however, were equally talented and passionate about music.
Thinane explained that through live performances at gigs and wedding occasions, the members improvise to make a living. This is beneficial for them, especially with no end in sight to the lengthy dry spell of music festivals through which musicians make better money. In addition to the dwindling festivals, South African musicians are battling rampant piracy, further crippling them.
Thinane said part of his contribution to the growth of the band is to impart valuable knowledge he acquired over the years. His experience spans across decades Z from the early years when he cut his teeth in music during the 1970s. Thinane said during his journey he teamed up with various performing artists.
Among these artists, songwriters, and producers he happened to work with, he mentioned among them the highly talented artists who formed the now defunct Black Five group. They include Jeff Radine, Thami Sobekwa, Joe Zikhali, and Samuel Thobi. One of South Africa’s finest, the band dominated music charts with thought-provoking hit songs such as “Pula Ea Na”, “Teboho Kemang”and “Lena Lefatshe ole Tshabe”.
Thinane said the plan is for the band members to produce timeless music. The band auditioned for this year’s Heidedal Music Expo. The audition was held in the Norman Doubell Hall in Bloemfontein on 10 and 11 February.
