Linos Wengara Magaya & Zimbaremabwe

Zimbaremabwe carry the torch for Zimbabwean traditional music in the UK. They perform as an acoustic style ensemble, with traditional acoustic instruments, percussion and voice, but also run a modern full band. This full band style, often referred to as 'Chimurenga' music, was made popular by artists such as Thomas Mapfumo, and the Four Brothers. 

 

With a full complement of electric instruments, they bring a fast-paced and distinctive genre of music unique to Zimbabwe to the stage. It's rich, with singing melodic guitars, complex polyrhythms and a perpetual heartbeat provided by the bass drum. But they don't stop at traditional music; they also play other styles such as reggae, rock and funk – partly because they also enjoy this music, but also to showcase the flexibility of the mbira instrument of Zimbabwe. The mbira is a very spiritual instrument with a complex musical repertoire, but is also capable of adapting to many musical styles. They often feature both genres in their sets. They're based in Brighton but like to travel, performing at many of the big festivals – Shambala, Alresford, Glastonbury, Secret Garden Party, Solfest – and Off the Tracks.