Ongoma Profiles
Since relocating from the coast to Windhoek in 2006 Ongoma has grown from a humble percussion group to a
sought after entertainment and performance pool of artists. The group's professional and engaging
performance style has led to numerous collaborations with other Namibian artists since then, while
continuously exploring innovative and diverse new genres.
Ongoma is proud to present:
The iScetemiya Singers - We are the Music
The iScetemiya Singers vocal group was formed by seven young, gifted singers from Kuisebmond Walvis Bay,
in October 2009.
Under the artistic leadership of Jackie Hengombe, Samuel Taylor, Otniel Tjombe, Gadaffi Doeseb, Lesley Gamxamub
and Seun de Bruin Willem Kambo, quickly made a name for themselves as a versatile entertainment group with a
variable repertoire including traditional Namibian folksongs, popular hits, Gospel songs as well as original
tunes written by the 7 talented performers. The group accompanies their vocal delivery with well-choreographed
dance steps, and many hearts have been touched by their original and fresh show.
Since the iScetemiya Singers (Zulu: 'We are the Music') all hail from different social and religious
backgrounds, they decided to put forward a simple but irrevocable message of truth, unity and tolerance towards
everybody. It is this message of universal values which inspires their art and motivates their shows. Anybody who
has experienced their professional show will immediately attest that these 7 young artists will achieve what
they have set out to do: to make a success of their music.
References:
- Traditional Music Gospel Show for Valentines Day - Swakop, Feb 2010
- Credit Foncier Incentive Group for Ongoma - Sossusvlei, March 2010
For more information please contact Desmond Nasima or
Ongoma Arts Agencies 061-303526;
info@ongoma.com;
www.ongoma.com
AfterFX & Esther Fellner
A chance encounter of three gifted musicians from Congo-Brazzaville and a Spanish Violinist in
Namibia's bustling capital, Windhoek, led to the exciting and eclectic jazz fusion that is AfterFX.
When acclaimed Swiss-born songstress Esther Fellner added her vocal magic to the already
masterful instrumental delivery of the group, Windhoek audiences were begging for more. The
constellation of the group has certainly proven to be a meeting of like-minded artists, with a passion
for music and a refusal to compromise on aesthetics. It is the collective experience of everybody in
the group, which lends AfterFX that special extra to perform an incredibly rich repertoire including
genres from all corners of the world: standards, latin, afro-fusion, chansons, gypsy or blue grass.
Original projects currently in development will attest to their creative uniqueness towards the
middle of 2010.
For more information about the group and bookings contact
Volker Röder at 081 127 0880
Organic Groove
When an idea, fuelled by passion and pursued with dedication, evolves by its own volition into a free
spirited creative process, the result is more than the sum total of its parts. For example Organic
Groove: A 3-piece cross-cultural, musical interaction fusing the Australian Didgeridoo, the African
Drum and the European Guitar into a harmonic, tangible whole, creating new possibilities for cultural
explorations.
From the onset the group consisting of Gerhard Beyleveld (Didgeridoo), Richard Redecker (Lead Guitar), Noddy Alfred (African Percussion) and Andre Joubert (Rhythm Guitar) decided not to over-conceptualize their material, but rather allow each individual musician and instrument to harmonize and express creativity without dominating the whole. In a word: organic.
The easy listening repertoire of the group includes tunes reminiscent of a more aesthetic philosophy which celebrates life for life's sake, without excluding the realities of everyday challenges. Musical genres easily identified in the spontaneous melodies are African Kwela tunes, American folk-rock and Western Jazz improvisations.
For more information about the group and bookings contact
Volker Röder at 081 127 0880
Elemotho
Elemotho G.R Mosimane is a Namibian born musician who composes, records
and performs his own music. This artist plays acoustic guitar as well as sings in
his mother-tongue Setswana, English and other Namibian languages. He does not
classify his music under a certain style: " I see myself as a performing artist
and musical activist; I like to throw real
ity around, thus exploring the
depth of the human spirit". His sound is solid yet transparent, with messages
that create a utopia through music. From solo performances up to playing with
his band this artist does it all, from turning oppression into liberation, failure into
triumph, where past, present and future is delivered through his melodies.
From rural boy to modern lyricist this artist from
the Kalahari tries to divorce himself from your
usual commercial and easily consumable sounds
by using experimental ideas where reality is amplified
through his vision of music.
"I grew up with Story telling around the fire and
that has inspired me to create something that could
make you dance as well as listen, smile as well as cry,
find peace as well as wisdom". www.elemotho.com
The Mojo Blues Electric Band
The Mojo Blues Electric Band will play their first live show for 2009 at the MTC Design for Life Expo! Since 2005, the Mojo Blues Electric Band has been Namibia's premier blues export, having played successful shows throughout Namibia and in South Africa. During their time away, the Mojo boys have been working on a number of new songs and fans can expect an electrifying return to the stage. Well-known frontman, PD Stoman, describes the band as a side-project turned trendy blues band. From early Delta Blues' Son House and Robert Johnson to Muddy Waters, BB King & JL Hooker - Hendrix, SRV and Robben Ford. All the members also have varied tastes outside of the blues which is great for fine-tuning their original sound. Anybody who has been to their previous concerts will know Mojo Electric Blues Band delivers some of the most solid blues rock this side of the Equator and will have you stomping for more.
The Muzenza Capoeira Group
Consisting of 24 well trained, fit young men and women, the Windhoek based 'Grupo Muzenza' preserve the century-old Brazilian-African heritage, teachings and professional philosophy of Capoeira in Namibia.
Delicately accompanied by the subtle sound of a Berimbau - an ancient African bow instrument - pairs of the group square up for intense bouts of lighting-fast, non-contact fights, cunningly disguised in apparently non-aggressive dance steps. Considered a national sport in Brazil, Capoeira was invented almost 500 years ago by African slaves in the then Portuguese colonies as a defense and fighting discipline, since all direct contact fight sport and training was strictly forbidden by the colonial masters.
Based in 35 countries around the world, 'Grupo Muzenza', spawned by Paulo da Silva, observes strict philosophical and physical disciplines, and proudly continues one of Africa's oldest customs. Complemented by the particular sounds of traditional African instruments like djembe drums, tandorines a ungos and derimbaous with dramatic acrobatics and fire performances, Windhoek's 'Grupo Mezenzua' have firmly established Capoeira in Namibia.
Lady May
Over the years Lady May has become renowned for her unique mixture of music styles and her vibrant and
daring performances and sense of fashion. When asked what kind of music she brings the talented artist
responds "It's a mixture of Afro Pop and Traditional Oshiwambo Music." Although she is receiving more
and more recognition for her work nationally and internationally, Lady May is a diva with her feet
solidly on the ground. "It's important to remember where you come from, who helped you get there and
what you need to do to make it in this industry. I believe that respecting your gift, time, being
prepared and organized is the key to a professional and successful career. Life is precious but not always
easy. It's important to cherish what you have and live lift to the fullest instead of complaining about
what you don't have."
Richard Meyer
Richard Meyer is no new-comer to Namibia's thriving music and entertainment industry, having wooed
Namibian Jazz and Soul audiences for close on 20 years now. In 2009 Richard decided to perfect his
performance talents as a solo jazz vocalist, backed up by accomplished guitarist-cum-keyboard player,
Mathews. Richard's 'comeback' into Namibia's mainstream entertainment arena can only described as
meteoritic, with his performance diary booked end to end and finding appreciative fans at every show,
from Saturday late night gigs at Windhoek's up-class jazz lounge, Pharaoh's Eye to the regular Sunday
Kalahari Sands Carvery performance. There seems no stopping the creative energy of this seasoned artist.
While one solo album is imminently to be released, another double album of Evergreens is already waiting
in the wings. Richard's ever-increasing repertoire includes cover classics from the 60's through to the
90's; delivering Barry White or Michael Bolton renditions with as much as ease as penning his own
compositions; showstoppers which will no doubt take him onto stages beyond the confines of Namibia.
Centrefold
From the sandy wastes of the Namib comes a rock sensation to blow you away with their original tunes and
dynamic cover versions of contemporary and classic rock songs. A melting pot of seasoned rock veterans,
including former members of Namibia's Rock sensations 'Just Jack' and 'Swimming Pool Sunday', and fired-up
with fresh blood, Centre Fold is passionate about their music. Despite all the band members also holding
down regular day jobs, they are constantly traveling the width and breadth of Namibia to deliver slick
shows to their appreciative fans time and again. Centre Fold aim not only to rock and entertain, but to
have fun while doing it. Perhaps that explains their effortless, cool professionalism.
Members:
Andre Joubert - Vocals and Rhythm Guitar
Wouter de Bruyn -Lead Guitar and Backing Vocals
Swartsie - Bass and Backing Vocals
Wayne Wentzel - Drums and Percussion
Dj Kboz
Dj Kboz started his career in 2001 at Unam Radio as in house Dj and production engineer.
Moved to Radio Energy after 3 years in 2004 and has dominated the air waves as Namibia's No.1 Entertainment Dj.
Taught by the 2 mix masters (DJ Fraunsch and Master Will) Kboz took his dji'n to a higher level by becoming the first DJ to commercialize Remixing, Brenda Fassie's song "my baby" was remixed to house, hit the waves and became an instant hit.
Since then Kboz has gone into production and worked alongside big Namibian artists. He has also released his own Album titled "Strictly Street House Vol. 1".
Achievements
DJ of the year,2007,2008 (Kool Productions)
Best House Dj, 2007
Best House Album, 2007
DJ Of The Year, 2005
Won Zee's Sports Bar Dj Mixxx 2004
GAZZA'S DJ 2004
Won Sprite In Da Mixxx DJ Competition 2003
Curtain Raiser for Dj cleo, Bojo Mujo, Dj Fresh, Ready D, dj Waxxy, Black Coffee
Song Produced
Gal Level - Shake it Ultimatum Remix
Sunny Boy - Oshwaikengaho
Faizel Mc - Kamata
Gazza - Nobody
Lydia - My Only Hope
Verdicts - Keshe Gumwe
Kamasutra - Lovey wange ft. Tuyiemo
The Dogg - Get some more ft. Qonja
The Dogg - Can you feel it ft. tre
Sunny Boy - Lets Get Busy
Kamasutra - Kamasutra
Julez - Key to my heart
Sally - Pengo Hole
Lady May - Pink Chocolate(full album)
Kboz Hit song - African Love Ft. Low profile
Currently working on his second project which involves the release of strictly street volume 2, Upcoming superstar and Namibia's next best thing, Sally, alongside Rap sensations s-man, Southwest and Young Cash
Penilane
Penilane made their debut at the Karibib Arts Festival in June 2004. Since then the band has gone from strength to strength and have shared the stage with Namibian stars like Gazza, Ras Sheehema and Snazzy, as well as opened for South African headliners like Johnny Clegg, PJ Powers, Arno Carstens, Jo Day, The Narrow, The Parlotones, Van Coke Kartel and Fokofpolisiekar. They were invited to open festivities at Oppikoppi Wired 2005 in South Africa and won the rock category at the Namibian Music Awards in 2006. The band consists of Roy-Lee Kitt on vocals and guitar, Mike Ott on bass guitar and Anesh Morar on drums.
www.penilane.com
Pyplyn
A diverse Rock/Dance Band that performs hits from the 60's right to here and now, including steaming hot originals since 2004, to entertain any and every ear in the crowd. This unique music outfit consists of four members from four totally different musical backgrounds Zirk Jansen (lead vocals & Guitar) brings his influences of Rock, country, pop and Afrikaans to the party, whilst Rian Snyman (drums) fills the rhythm section with a nostalgic though energetic 80's rock feel. Enrico Tagliaferri (Bass & Vocals) has been part of many well-known Namibian bands in the late 70's and 80's. Johann Linde (keyboards & Vocals) joined the band in 2007 and enriches this foursome with his big-band swing style. Their Afrikaans album titled "als innie Pyplyn" made a great impact on the local as well as on most of the arts festivals in South African. Fans can look forward to a great new album early in 2010. A truly Namibian rock band to diarise.
DATE: 25 July 2007
SUBJECT: AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT
Renowned for its commitment towards promoting Namibian music artistry, GARISEB MANAGEMENT in collaboration
with the Franco Namibian Cultural Centre anticipates staging the AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT on Saturday,
07 July 2007 at the FNCC.
Billed "AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT", the event serves as an introduction to an upcoming and exceptionally
talented Afro-soul-jazz singer Erna Chimu & popular traditional fusion group Ongoma.
The promoter of the show, André +Gomhetama Gariseb, explains that the AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT
is created to showcase the astonishing music versatility and depth of repertoire of individuals whose
music is set to play a transforming role on the homegrown scene and to promote the regeneration revival
and rejuvenation of traditional and contemporary Namibian music through dynamic, stimulating, interesting
and professionally produced shows.
The indoor event is guaranteed to be a warm celebration of stunning showcase filled with exhilarating
energy fused with great vocal capabilities and sensational melodies sweeping across the bright and
vibrant Namibian music landscapes. The concert is brought to you with the generous support from the
NANDO'S, TAFEL LAGER , NTN, FURNMART and CACTUS AGENCIES.
The featured artists' music is suitable for discerning audiences and is sociable and comforting. It
includes all the ingredients for a great spectacular: an endless list of positive values... prestige,
majesty, competitiveness, delight and guarantees to be a rewarding music experience!
Jazz and afro fusion fans will have the pleasure of experiencing an evening of Namibia's rich musical
heritage delivered by an ensemble of dynamic talents; thrilling energy, great voices, rhythms and melodies
that soar across the bright and vibrant Namibian traditional landscapes.
G3
The name G3 (God, George and Gustav) was chosen, because we believe GOD is life and we want to
acknowledge Him as the giver of our gifts ...
George and Gustav were weaned on the sounds of Earth Wind and Fire, The Beatles, Elvis, Sir Cliff
Richards, The Temptations to name but a few. The LP's they so enjoyed belonged to their father who had
been part of a band in his youth. Gustav (age 27) was the first to pick up the guitar and George (age 23)
his younger brother, soon followed suit. They soon became a hit amongst their peers, a few years later
performing at talent shows alike in their school days. It is then that the brothers realised they had
something good going.
In 2001 they were runner's up at the N.B.C Music Makers Competition, where they won the Categories for
Best Namibian Composition and Best Own Composition, with the songs Hope in Namibia and True Friend,
respectively. The cash prize was used to cut their first demo C.D with local award winning producer
David Terren. Soon after a local businessman then offered to sponsor the young brothers on a trip to
London to further equip them and develop their talents, after hearing their demo.
In London they received private guitar tutoring and later were fortunate enough to enrol at a guitar
institute, where they did a course enhancing their gift. While in London they tried to get as much
exposure as possible, by playing at various gigs and open mic sessions. In 2004 they also staged a
very successful concert in Osterly, (West London).
The first song they ever wrote was called Never Mind Changing a love song inspired by Billy Joel. "Music
is the thing that comes most naturally to us, we love doing it and all our songs are about various
aspects of daily experiences, living and loving. Currently most of our repertoires are based on our
London experiences. Our rehearsals go for at least 4-5 hours a day", says Gustav.
You won't meet more gentle souls, or more melodious voices on such eclectic musical compositions. These
talented brothers want to be remembered as the "brothers who worked well together. Since their return to
Namibia, G3 have performed at various up-market and popular venues throughout the City including Wine
Bar, and Nice. Recently they also recorded their first single Olupandu with world-renowned producer
Christian Polloni who has worked with the likes of Pappa Wemba, Alpha Blondie, and Carlos Santana
amongst others.
At the 2006 Sanlam/NBC Music Awards they were awarded with two prizes in the categories: Best Rock/
Alternative with Be Found and Best Single with Olupandu.
A chance encounter of three gifted musicians from Congo-Brazzaville and a Spanish Violinist in Namibia's bustling capital, Windhoek, led to the exciting and eclectic jazz fusion that is AfterFX. When acclaimed Swiss-born songstress Esther Fellner added her vocal magic to the already masterful instrumental delivery of the group, Windhoek audiences were begging for more. The constellation of the group has certainly proven to be a meeting of like-minded artists, with a passion for music and a refusal to compromise on aesthetics. It is the collective experience of everybody in the group, which lends AfterFX that special extra to perform an incredibly rich repertoire including genres from all corners of the world: standards, latin, afro-fusion, chansons, gypsy or blue grass. Original projects currently in development will attest to their creative uniqueness towards the middle of 2010.
For more information about the group and bookings contact Volker Röder at 081 127 0880
Organic Groove
When an idea, fuelled by passion and pursued with dedication, evolves by its own volition into a free spirited creative process, the result is more than the sum total of its parts. For example Organic Groove: A 3-piece cross-cultural, musical interaction fusing the Australian Didgeridoo, the African Drum and the European Guitar into a harmonic, tangible whole, creating new possibilities for cultural explorations.
From the onset the group consisting of Gerhard Beyleveld (Didgeridoo), Richard Redecker (Lead Guitar), Noddy Alfred (African Percussion) and Andre Joubert (Rhythm Guitar) decided not to over-conceptualize their material, but rather allow each individual musician and instrument to harmonize and express creativity without dominating the whole. In a word: organic.
The easy listening repertoire of the group includes tunes reminiscent of a more aesthetic philosophy which celebrates life for life's sake, without excluding the realities of everyday challenges. Musical genres easily identified in the spontaneous melodies are African Kwela tunes, American folk-rock and Western Jazz improvisations.
For more information about the group and bookings contact Volker Röder at 081 127 0880
Elemotho
Elemotho G.R Mosimane is a Namibian born musician who composes, records and performs his own music. This artist plays acoustic guitar as well as sings in his mother-tongue Setswana, English and other Namibian languages. He does not classify his music under a certain style: " I see myself as a performing artist and musical activist; I like to throw real ity around, thus exploring the depth of the human spirit". His sound is solid yet transparent, with messages that create a utopia through music. From solo performances up to playing with his band this artist does it all, from turning oppression into liberation, failure into triumph, where past, present and future is delivered through his melodies. From rural boy to modern lyricist this artist from the Kalahari tries to divorce himself from your usual commercial and easily consumable sounds by using experimental ideas where reality is amplified through his vision of music. "I grew up with Story telling around the fire and that has inspired me to create something that could make you dance as well as listen, smile as well as cry, find peace as well as wisdom". www.elemotho.com
The Mojo Blues Electric Band
The Mojo Blues Electric Band will play their first live show for 2009 at the MTC Design for Life Expo! Since 2005, the Mojo Blues Electric Band has been Namibia's premier blues export, having played successful shows throughout Namibia and in South Africa. During their time away, the Mojo boys have been working on a number of new songs and fans can expect an electrifying return to the stage. Well-known frontman, PD Stoman, describes the band as a side-project turned trendy blues band. From early Delta Blues' Son House and Robert Johnson to Muddy Waters, BB King & JL Hooker - Hendrix, SRV and Robben Ford. All the members also have varied tastes outside of the blues which is great for fine-tuning their original sound. Anybody who has been to their previous concerts will know Mojo Electric Blues Band delivers some of the most solid blues rock this side of the Equator and will have you stomping for more.
The Muzenza Capoeira Group
Consisting of 24 well trained, fit young men and women, the Windhoek based 'Grupo Muzenza' preserve the century-old Brazilian-African heritage, teachings and professional philosophy of Capoeira in Namibia.
Delicately accompanied by the subtle sound of a Berimbau - an ancient African bow instrument - pairs of the group square up for intense bouts of lighting-fast, non-contact fights, cunningly disguised in apparently non-aggressive dance steps. Considered a national sport in Brazil, Capoeira was invented almost 500 years ago by African slaves in the then Portuguese colonies as a defense and fighting discipline, since all direct contact fight sport and training was strictly forbidden by the colonial masters.
Based in 35 countries around the world, 'Grupo Muzenza', spawned by Paulo da Silva, observes strict philosophical and physical disciplines, and proudly continues one of Africa's oldest customs. Complemented by the particular sounds of traditional African instruments like djembe drums, tandorines a ungos and derimbaous with dramatic acrobatics and fire performances, Windhoek's 'Grupo Mezenzua' have firmly established Capoeira in Namibia.
Lady May
Over the years Lady May has become renowned for her unique mixture of music styles and her vibrant and daring performances and sense of fashion. When asked what kind of music she brings the talented artist responds "It's a mixture of Afro Pop and Traditional Oshiwambo Music." Although she is receiving more and more recognition for her work nationally and internationally, Lady May is a diva with her feet solidly on the ground. "It's important to remember where you come from, who helped you get there and what you need to do to make it in this industry. I believe that respecting your gift, time, being prepared and organized is the key to a professional and successful career. Life is precious but not always easy. It's important to cherish what you have and live lift to the fullest instead of complaining about what you don't have."
Richard Meyer
Richard Meyer is no new-comer to Namibia's thriving music and entertainment industry, having wooed Namibian Jazz and Soul audiences for close on 20 years now. In 2009 Richard decided to perfect his performance talents as a solo jazz vocalist, backed up by accomplished guitarist-cum-keyboard player, Mathews. Richard's 'comeback' into Namibia's mainstream entertainment arena can only described as meteoritic, with his performance diary booked end to end and finding appreciative fans at every show, from Saturday late night gigs at Windhoek's up-class jazz lounge, Pharaoh's Eye to the regular Sunday Kalahari Sands Carvery performance. There seems no stopping the creative energy of this seasoned artist. While one solo album is imminently to be released, another double album of Evergreens is already waiting in the wings. Richard's ever-increasing repertoire includes cover classics from the 60's through to the 90's; delivering Barry White or Michael Bolton renditions with as much as ease as penning his own compositions; showstoppers which will no doubt take him onto stages beyond the confines of Namibia.
Centrefold
From the sandy wastes of the Namib comes a rock sensation to blow you away with their original tunes and dynamic cover versions of contemporary and classic rock songs. A melting pot of seasoned rock veterans, including former members of Namibia's Rock sensations 'Just Jack' and 'Swimming Pool Sunday', and fired-up with fresh blood, Centre Fold is passionate about their music. Despite all the band members also holding down regular day jobs, they are constantly traveling the width and breadth of Namibia to deliver slick shows to their appreciative fans time and again. Centre Fold aim not only to rock and entertain, but to have fun while doing it. Perhaps that explains their effortless, cool professionalism.
Members:
Andre Joubert - Vocals and Rhythm Guitar
Wouter de Bruyn -Lead Guitar and Backing Vocals
Swartsie - Bass and Backing Vocals
Wayne Wentzel - Drums and Percussion
Dj Kboz
Dj Kboz started his career in 2001 at Unam Radio as in house Dj and production engineer.
Moved to Radio Energy after 3 years in 2004 and has dominated the air waves as Namibia's No.1 Entertainment Dj.
Taught by the 2 mix masters (DJ Fraunsch and Master Will) Kboz took his dji'n to a higher level by becoming the first DJ to commercialize Remixing, Brenda Fassie's song "my baby" was remixed to house, hit the waves and became an instant hit.
Since then Kboz has gone into production and worked alongside big Namibian artists. He has also released his own Album titled "Strictly Street House Vol. 1".
Achievements
DJ of the year,2007,2008 (Kool Productions)
Best House Dj, 2007
Best House Album, 2007
DJ Of The Year, 2005
Won Zee's Sports Bar Dj Mixxx 2004
GAZZA'S DJ 2004
Won Sprite In Da Mixxx DJ Competition 2003
Curtain Raiser for Dj cleo, Bojo Mujo, Dj Fresh, Ready D, dj Waxxy, Black Coffee
Song Produced
Gal Level - Shake it Ultimatum Remix
Sunny Boy - Oshwaikengaho
Faizel Mc - Kamata
Gazza - Nobody
Lydia - My Only Hope
Verdicts - Keshe Gumwe
Kamasutra - Lovey wange ft. Tuyiemo
The Dogg - Get some more ft. Qonja
The Dogg - Can you feel it ft. tre
Sunny Boy - Lets Get Busy
Kamasutra - Kamasutra
Julez - Key to my heart
Sally - Pengo Hole
Lady May - Pink Chocolate(full album)
Kboz Hit song - African Love Ft. Low profile
Currently working on his second project which involves the release of strictly street volume 2, Upcoming superstar and Namibia's next best thing, Sally, alongside Rap sensations s-man, Southwest and Young Cash
Penilane
Penilane made their debut at the Karibib Arts Festival in June 2004. Since then the band has gone from strength to strength and have shared the stage with Namibian stars like Gazza, Ras Sheehema and Snazzy, as well as opened for South African headliners like Johnny Clegg, PJ Powers, Arno Carstens, Jo Day, The Narrow, The Parlotones, Van Coke Kartel and Fokofpolisiekar. They were invited to open festivities at Oppikoppi Wired 2005 in South Africa and won the rock category at the Namibian Music Awards in 2006. The band consists of Roy-Lee Kitt on vocals and guitar, Mike Ott on bass guitar and Anesh Morar on drums.
www.penilane.com
Pyplyn
A diverse Rock/Dance Band that performs hits from the 60's right to here and now, including steaming hot originals since 2004, to entertain any and every ear in the crowd. This unique music outfit consists of four members from four totally different musical backgrounds Zirk Jansen (lead vocals & Guitar) brings his influences of Rock, country, pop and Afrikaans to the party, whilst Rian Snyman (drums) fills the rhythm section with a nostalgic though energetic 80's rock feel. Enrico Tagliaferri (Bass & Vocals) has been part of many well-known Namibian bands in the late 70's and 80's. Johann Linde (keyboards & Vocals) joined the band in 2007 and enriches this foursome with his big-band swing style. Their Afrikaans album titled "als innie Pyplyn" made a great impact on the local as well as on most of the arts festivals in South African. Fans can look forward to a great new album early in 2010. A truly Namibian rock band to diarise.
DATE: 25 July 2007
SUBJECT: AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT
Renowned for its commitment towards promoting Namibian music artistry, GARISEB MANAGEMENT in collaboration with the Franco Namibian Cultural Centre anticipates staging the AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT on Saturday, 07 July 2007 at the FNCC.
Billed "AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT", the event serves as an introduction to an upcoming and exceptionally talented Afro-soul-jazz singer Erna Chimu & popular traditional fusion group Ongoma.
The promoter of the show, André +Gomhetama Gariseb, explains that the AFRICAN RENAISSANCE CONCERT is created to showcase the astonishing music versatility and depth of repertoire of individuals whose music is set to play a transforming role on the homegrown scene and to promote the regeneration revival and rejuvenation of traditional and contemporary Namibian music through dynamic, stimulating, interesting and professionally produced shows.
The indoor event is guaranteed to be a warm celebration of stunning showcase filled with exhilarating energy fused with great vocal capabilities and sensational melodies sweeping across the bright and vibrant Namibian music landscapes. The concert is brought to you with the generous support from the NANDO'S, TAFEL LAGER , NTN, FURNMART and CACTUS AGENCIES.
The featured artists' music is suitable for discerning audiences and is sociable and comforting. It includes all the ingredients for a great spectacular: an endless list of positive values... prestige, majesty, competitiveness, delight and guarantees to be a rewarding music experience!
Jazz and afro fusion fans will have the pleasure of experiencing an evening of Namibia's rich musical heritage delivered by an ensemble of dynamic talents; thrilling energy, great voices, rhythms and melodies that soar across the bright and vibrant Namibian traditional landscapes.
G3
The name G3 (God, George and Gustav) was chosen, because we believe GOD is life and we want to acknowledge Him as the giver of our gifts ...
George and Gustav were weaned on the sounds of Earth Wind and Fire, The Beatles, Elvis, Sir Cliff Richards, The Temptations to name but a few. The LP's they so enjoyed belonged to their father who had been part of a band in his youth. Gustav (age 27) was the first to pick up the guitar and George (age 23) his younger brother, soon followed suit. They soon became a hit amongst their peers, a few years later performing at talent shows alike in their school days. It is then that the brothers realised they had something good going.
In 2001 they were runner's up at the N.B.C Music Makers Competition, where they won the Categories for Best Namibian Composition and Best Own Composition, with the songs Hope in Namibia and True Friend, respectively. The cash prize was used to cut their first demo C.D with local award winning producer David Terren. Soon after a local businessman then offered to sponsor the young brothers on a trip to London to further equip them and develop their talents, after hearing their demo.
In London they received private guitar tutoring and later were fortunate enough to enrol at a guitar institute, where they did a course enhancing their gift. While in London they tried to get as much exposure as possible, by playing at various gigs and open mic sessions. In 2004 they also staged a very successful concert in Osterly, (West London).
The first song they ever wrote was called Never Mind Changing a love song inspired by Billy Joel. "Music is the thing that comes most naturally to us, we love doing it and all our songs are about various aspects of daily experiences, living and loving. Currently most of our repertoires are based on our London experiences. Our rehearsals go for at least 4-5 hours a day", says Gustav.
You won't meet more gentle souls, or more melodious voices on such eclectic musical compositions. These talented brothers want to be remembered as the "brothers who worked well together. Since their return to Namibia, G3 have performed at various up-market and popular venues throughout the City including Wine Bar, and Nice. Recently they also recorded their first single Olupandu with world-renowned producer Christian Polloni who has worked with the likes of Pappa Wemba, Alpha Blondie, and Carlos Santana amongst others.
At the 2006 Sanlam/NBC Music Awards they were awarded with two prizes in the categories: Best Rock/ Alternative with Be Found and Best Single with Olupandu.