Led by acclaimed saxophonist Mthunzi Mvubu and master percussionist Gontse Makhene, the Abathwebuli Trio presents a powerful contemporary interpretation of African jazz, weaving together rich rhythms, soulful melodies and ancestral chants into a deeply immersive live experience.
Mthunzi Mvubu is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s foremost saxophonists and flautists. His debut album, The 1st Gospel, earned a South African Music Award nomination in 2023 and won the Mzantsi Jazz Award for Best Male Jazz Artist. A third-generation percussionist, Gontse Makhene is celebrated for his ability to bridge traditional African drumming with contemporary musical expression. Completing the trio is bassist Sipho Mabena, whose musicianship anchors the ensemble’s distinctive sound. Together, Abathwebuli Trio celebrates the rich heritage of African jazz while continuing to push the genre into exciting new territory.
Saturday, 22 August Louis Mhlanga Widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest guitarists, Louis Mhlanga has built an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades across Southern Africa and beyond. Born in South Africa in 1956 and raised in Zimbabwe during the country’s liberation era, Mhlanga emerged as part of a generation of musicians that helped shape modern Southern African music.
Over the years, Mhlanga has collaborated with many of the continent’s most celebrated artists, including Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Ray Phiri, Sipho Mabuse, Mlungisi Gegana and Busi Mhlongo, earning widespread respect for his lyrical guitar playing and distinctive musical voice.
His Jozi Gold performance offers audiences the opportunity to experience one of Africa’s true jazz masters in the intimate setting that has become synonymous with the venue’s Saturday night series.
Saturday, 29 August Herbie Tsoaeli Affectionately known as “Malume”, Herbie Tsoaeli is one of South Africa’s most respected bassists, as well as an accomplished composer, arranger and bandleader.
Winner of the 2013 South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Jazz Album for his acclaimed debut, African Time, Tsoaeli has built a distinguished career through his expressive bass playing, thoughtful compositions and enduring contribution to South African jazz. His work has earned him widespread respect from audiences and fellow musicians alike, cementing his place as one of the country’s leading jazz voices.
Closing Jozi Gold’s August programme, Tsoaeli brings decades of artistry and experience to an intimate performance that celebrates the richness, heritage and continuing evolution of South African jazz, providing a fitting finale to a month showcasing some of the country’s finest jazz masters.
Throughout August, audiences can once again experience world-class South African jazz in one of Johannesburg’s most intimate listening environments, continuing Jozi Gold’s vision of making Braamfontein a destination for exceptional live jazz every Saturday evening.
August Programme Saturday, 8 August - Keenan Ahrends
