I’ve created a new site to post some recent (and not so recent) HD concert videos I’ve taken. See www.videos.to-music.ca Posted so far: Bombino @ Lula Lounge, Jul. 12 Thomas Mapfumo @ Lula Lounge, Jul. 11 Kabakuwo @ Lula Lounge, Jun. 30 Yemen Blues @ Luminato, Jun. 12 Freddie Gwala, Platform One & Tich Maredza, Great Hall, Apr. 16 (below) More to come. (Older, non-HD videos at www.youtube.to-music.ca)
A couple of years ago, I was contacted by Doug & Laurel Epps in Colorado who asked permission to use a couple of my photos of Thomas Mapfumo in concert. They were making a documentary on the beginnings of Zimbabwean music in North America and its spread. Now after four years of work, it’s almost finished. Taj Mahal narrates. A preview is below. For more information, see sacredpathexplorations.com
Shows at the Lula last week As noted in another post, Thomas Mapfumo closed out Afrofest, but because some of his band members didn’t get visas for Canada, filled in with some local musicians (including guitarist Larry Lewis & Tich Maredza on bass). Mapfumo wasn’t happy with the struggles to get the tightness he wanted, but those who were at both shows agreed that the whole band was much better with another day under their belts on the Monday night at the Lula, and the dance floor was busy. The next night, Bombino (Omara Moctar), the Tuareg guitarist/singer and his … Continue reading
Email announcement from Music Africa: AFROFEST AT QUEEN’S PARK ON JULY 9th & 10th Afrofest, a free celebration of the richness and diversity of African culture, is set for Queen’s Park in Toronto on Saturday July 9th and Sunday July 10th. Featuring world-renowned African musicians and top African groups based in Canada, an African marketplace, food and craft vendors, artistic displays, music workshops, and organized activities for youth and children. Afrofest is THE cultural event of the summer. Discover Africa in the Heart of Toronto! African music legend Thomas Mapfumo will be a feature act of Afrofest 2011. “The Lion of Zimbabwe” is considered both the Bob Dylan and … Continue reading
