1 March features the Old Mutual Encounter with Malaika and friend. Tackling social themes and love songs in a soulful lilt that has come to be known as their signature Malaika will give the audience some songs from their new release “Sekunjalo” which is set for more awards. Already recipients of a number of Best Group awards these extraordinary performers continue to “sing out” on issues whilst keeping the fans dancing and singing with their versatile numbers. And, with the awesome Wendy Oldfield as their “friend “expect an afternoon of pure listening pleasure.
If it's reggae music you love then you'll be booking for the 8 March concert when Cape Town Cape Town Afro-Ska/reggae band The Rudimentals, take to the stage. This hugely popular band have become an institution in South Africa with their reggae influenced music and are one of a handful of such groups. The band's releases include two CDs, More Fire and Set It Proper, and a live DVD/CD combo of their 2007 Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Concert.
Signed to the United Kingdom based Moon Ska World distribution label they offer a multi-layered musical experience with compositions from the eight extroverted individuals. A variety of genres has made them popular as supporting acts alongside such greats as Randy Crawford, Joe Sample, The Average White Band and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. They have shared the stage with UB40 in 2007 as well as Johnny Clegg, Lucky Dube, Hip Hop Pantsula, Freshlyground, Mad Caddies and Fuzigish.
15 March and it's a mid month appearance for The Dirty Skirts. Their discography ranges from electronica infused indie rock to pop punk and to experience their live performance is to enjoy a heady combination of effervescent joy, humour, passion and raw animal power. The art rockers continue to soar, with a reputation for being fiercely independent, releasing both their self titled EP, the follow up full length album “On a Stellar Bender” themselves and now the release of their second album Daddy Don't Disco.
A melodic pop-rock band, aKING will give music lovers a tremendous afternoon on 22 March. Formed when Hunter Kennedy and Jaco Venter from Fokofpolisiekar, teamed up with friends Laudo Liebenberg and Hennie van Halen, the joining of their combined creative forces is making music that expresses their shared experiences and influences. aKING is an audio diary of life and survival in the suburbs. Expect uncompromising, focused energy. Sing-along alternative country-inspired songs and classic rock anthems are the order of the day.
Finally the month winds down, 29 March presents the rich sounds of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Dr. Corwin Matei, professor at the Conservatory of University of Stellenbosch.
The glorious sounds of the orchestra will resonate across the gardens and provide the perfect relaxation for a summer Sunday afternoon. A longer concert than usual this classical presentation of Holst's Planets, Mussorgsky's "Night" and Beethoven's No 5 is destined to draw huge crowds. A departure from the high voltage bands playing during the season this is one concert that will attract a wide audience.
For information and ticket prices call 021 799 8783/8620 or visit www.sanbi.org. Ticket sales for the sunset concerts start from the Tuesday preceding the concert. Book online at www.tunegum.com - please note that tickets booked online must be redeemed at the ticket office before the show.
