KENSINGTON ROAD & UmuthiOmkhulu Ensemble at Selective Live

ABOUT

Mthimkhulu Stuurman, a South African-based Trombonist, brings a unique approach to African Spiritual Jazz, honed over three years of experience in the art form. His journey was profoundly influenced by the late legend, Jazz trumpeter Dr Johnny Mekoa, who first introduced him to Jazz music. More recently, he has found inspiration in the music of the great SA trombonist Malcolm Jiyane.

Mthimkhulu’s love for African Spiritual Jazz stems from his belief in Ancestors. Ancestral worship is the cornerstone of African Spiritual Jazz - the music connected to the roots of African people. In simple terms, these songs are the sound form equivalent to praying or conversing with your ancestors directly. This sound draws on a lineage of elders - Pharoah Sanders, Don Cherry, Eric Dolphy - as well as modern innovators - Shabaka Hutchings, Nduduzo Makhathini and Linda Sikhakhane. This music is thoughtful, beautiful and profound.

Despite his young age, Mthimkhulu has already collaborated with a diverse range of local and international musicians. His partners include the late Dr Johnny Mekoa, Prince Lengoasa, Mthunzi Mvubu, The Spam All Stars, The Temptations, Luyolo Lenga, Dj Ed Noodles, Imbewu Marimba Community, The Amazing Thailand Band, and the Cape Town-based Black Improvised Music outfit Kujenga.

Mthimkhulu has graced the stages of prestigious venues such as The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Johannesburg, the U.S. Embassy, the German Embassy, the Gaborone Convention Centre, AfrikaBurn, and the Expo Centre, among others. 

Returning to the stage for the first time after the recording of the ensemble’s debut album "Imithandazo Yethu” (Our Prayers), the Umuthiomkhulu Ensemble consists of:

Mthimkhulu Stuurman - Trombone & Vocal

Vuyo Nkasawe - Piano

Benjy Anstey - Guitar

Jarryd Alexander - Bass

Tim Fortes - Drums

KENSINGTON ROAD is a dynamic band hailing from Berlin, celebrated for their distinctive fusion of Indie Rock and Alternative Pop. Their vibrant, international sound resonates with audiences worldwide, including Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and the US.

Their earlier albums, "LUMIDOR" (2018, #28 on the German charts) and "SEX DEVILS OCEAN" (2021, #13 on the German charts), received widespread acclaim. Their latest release, "CHARLIE IS ALIVE," dropped in May 2024, has already climbed to #18 on the German charts. This album continues to embody their genuine, heartfelt music, weaving tales of life, love, loss, and friendship with an unfiltered energy and passion.

KENSINGTON ROAD defies typical rock clichés, delivering authentic, grounded songs devoid of superficial thrills. After countless miles touring Europe, this hardworking band has honed their sound and knows precisely what their music represents. Their live performances are a testament to their pure energy and passionate delivery, captivating audiences everywhere they go.

Videos:

Flowers in Japan - https://youtu.be/ja7LcCRH0Wk

Charlie is Alive - https://youtu.be/RJt9G2Nz4mo

Into the Universe - https://youtu.be/3Y6wKUhoOkk

Doors Open at 6 pm