Sunday, 4 October 2026

Kyle Shepherd’s Kauri Trio, with drummer Marlin Woodboy and bassist Benjamin Jephta, paid tribute to Abdullah Ibrahim through interpretations preserving the composer’s melodies, rhythms and structure.

Budkaya Mashango described reimagining Kippie Moiketsi’s music with contemporary harmonies and arrangements, while acknowledging Kippie’s influence on Abdullah Ibrahim, Hugh Masekela and other musicians.

Cuban-American pianist David Virelles traced his musical development from Santiago de Cuba to Toronto and New York, blending classical, Afro-Cuban and jazz traditions as one expression.

Virelles recalled meeting Jane Bunnett aged 15, recording for a Blue Note album, later receiving Toronto’s first Oscar Peterson Award and eventually moving to New York.

The episode also highlighted Sisongpe Pinti’s long-awaited album Okolo, released after six years, presenting it as a prayerful reflection on faith and South Africa’s rebirth.