Afrobeat/Jazz fusion
19th February 2009
Reviewed by Hedd Thomas
Within weeks of the devastating earthquake striking Haiti there were various fundraising gigs. Some were rehearsed and well-organised, others less so. But if there was event that was sure to find the right balance of reflection and support for the relief effort with enjoyable, danceable music, this was it.
The evening started with a true West African flair courtesy of drumming by Tony Spencer and others, followed by a brief talk with musical examples from Haiti given by ethnomusicologist Nanette de Jong. Then came some more popular music with James Bligh performing on solo guitar, followed by an energetic set by The Din before a political flavour was injected into the evening's mix by the up-and-coming rapper and guitarist Greg Genre.
It was the main act, though, that everyone had come to see. Formed in 2003, Hannabiell & Midnight Blue have come a long way from their experimental beginnings in New Jersey, USA, growing into an ensemble capable of fusing different genres and cultures into one unique, uplifting style of music.
Nate Shaw on piano, John Pope on bass and George Magrath on drums all performed well, managing to successfully weaving their way through the different styles of playing and techniques the music demanded. Thuli Mazwi's voice added serenity to the combination, illustrated best in 'Ndlovukazi', sung in Zimbabwe's Ndebele language, while Yilis Suriel provided powerful, polished percussion. But it was Hannabiell Sauders who excelled. As well as singing and playing percussion, bass trombone and mbira, she masterfully led the group, keeping the rhythms tight and the music both hip and soulful.
A definite highlight of their set was 'With Us', a beautifully calming call-and-response for voices and mbiras. The lyrics included the repeated phrase “Peace be with us now,” serving as a poignant reminder as to why we were all there and where our entrance fee was headed. Another highlight was 'Tyler's Line', which gave the small but appreciative crowd the chance to hear not only each one on stage shine but also the bass trombone at its fullest and funkiest, bringing to a fitting end their impressive performance.
Rating: 4/5
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