COMING HOME inspires Gauteng audiences this Festive Season - WIN TICKETS!

Acclaimed South African composer Isak Roux headlines the inspiring play, Coming Home, which seeks to evoke themes found in the Biblical parable of The Prodigal Son.
Held over Reconciliation days, which is the 15th and 16th December, the work also aligns with the theme of this important and uniquely South African historical event.

Not only does Coming Home blend the voices of three solo singers, a large mixed choir and a jazz and string orchestra, but more importantly, it draws on the uniquely African musical genre of Isicathamiya. Roux - who has worked abroad extensively - was inspired to compose a work that will aim to bring the traditional Spiritual back to its ancestral home, Africa.

Musically, the audience will be treated to a mixture of classical, jazz and gospel styles, combined with a touch of township styles such as penny whistle, marabi and kwela. The narrative sections will see influences of praise song, IsiZulu oral poetry as well as a little kwaito coming through.

Roux explained that Coming Home will for the most part be interpreted in various indigenous languages of South Africa. "The work functions on different levels, and the parable itself appeals to people globally, regardless of one's religious affiliations. Also, it is a celebration of Africa and its Homecoming in light of the African Renaissance - it is a triumphant vision of our past, present and future," said Roux.

The play will be narrated by accomplished local actor, Sello Maake ka Ncube, with award winning soprano Sibongile Mngoma, and tenor Tim Moloi featuring prominently as soloists. The South African Chamber Choir will feature in the performance and the work will be conducted by Kutlwano Masote.

Coming Home is approximately 80 minutes, and will encompass two sections of 40 minutes each.
Taking place at the Joburg Promusica Theatre in Florida Park, on Tuesday 15 December at 20h00 and on Wednesday 16 December at 15h00, this is the ideal opportunity to celebrate the homecoming and reconciliation of our nation.

These concerts are supported by Classic FM and sponsored by The National Arts Council of South Africa. Tickets are available at Computicket and at the Joburg Promusica Theatre (011 674 1357/8/9) for R100.00

We have a treat for 5 of our lucky readers to go and watch the show on the opening night on Tuesday,15 December 2009. All you have to do is send an email with your name, surname and contact details to khetha@yeahbo.net .

MTVBase Nights to close 2009 with a BANG

It seems MTVBase is going all out for their last monthly MTVBase Nights event for December, set to take place in two cities this time around. Here is what my wifey, Melanie, says on the release she sent me:

MTV base nights and Absolut Rocks bring you "Who Gon’ Run this town tonight" on 4 December in Jozi and Durban with major album launches in both cities.

Since its inception in July, MTV base nights has become the most anticipated night out on the monthly social calendar. With the crowds the party pulls every month, artists and bands have started using the first Friday’s event, as the launch pad for new releases, like Jozi’s “Wildlife” in November.

December is no different. Only bigger and better. Two cities – Johannesburg and Durban; 4 official album launches and it’s all brought to you by MTV base nights and Absolut Rock.

On 4 December MTV base nights and Absolut Rock will be taking over Moloko and Louis XVI in Rosebank, with two mega album launches for TEARGAS, supported by L-Tido, live on one stage. Your favourite DJs Dimplez, Biz, Soul Sista, DJ LeoLarge, Hudson and Brooklyn’s best kept secret, international big gun DJ G Brown, will make sure you blaze up the dance floor ‘til sunrise –. MTV base hottie, Sizwe Dhlomo will be hosting the Jhb event.

It’s all happening at Plush in Durban on 4 December. The popular venue explodes with not one, but two album launches for JR and L Volvo. Flippin’ it all night long on the decks are the city’s hottest DJs – DJ Mel, P-Kuttah and C-Live. Durban peeps are still talking about the last MTV base night, so don’t miss out again.

"Who Gon’ Run this town tonight" is proudly brought to you by ABSOLUT Vodka Rock Edition.

Doors open at 21h00. Tickets available at the door. R100 gets you in, R150 gets you VIP. Dress code is smart casual. No sneakers and no under 21’s.

For more information log onto www.mtvbase.com or join the MTV Base Nights event page on Facebook.

MTV Base Nights peeps Are Hot And You're Not

If you are not attending the monthly MTV Base Nights that has been heating up Rosebank for the past few months, what are you waiting for?

Latinova will be sizzling yet again this Friday, 06 November 2009 as MTV Base hosts another of their dope parties, dubbed this time I'm Hot And You're Not, that take place every first Friday of the month. There is a bevy of DJ's that will be taking to the decks to make you dance until the morning. But the entertainment doesn't E.N.D. (as BEP say on the new album, Energy Never Dies) there as the hip hop group Jozi will be launching their new album and performing tracks from that very same album. You don't want to miss out. Please check the attached flyer for the details.

And get this, YEAHBO.DOT.NET is giving away 5 VIP tickets to the event. All you have to do to win is send an email, with your contact details to khetha@yeahbo.net; and answer these simple questions:

• What was Jozi's debut album called?
• Name at least 2 members of the group Jozi.

I'm currently in Botswana until this coming Sunday, so I'm sad that I'm not going to be there. But if you are in and around Jozi, you have no excuse.

Simphiwe Dana set to rock Soweto

The multi-award winning Afro- soul and jazz sensation, Simphiwe Dana, is billed to perform an exclusive one-only show in Soweto for the first time on the 3rd of October 2009.

Set to take place at Sedibeng, Zone 10, Meadowlands, the songstress will perform a collage of songs from her two critically and commercially acclaimed albums Zandisile and The One Love Movement On Bantu Biko Street with her band. This promises to be a special moment for both the people of Soweto and the singer herself.

The tickets will be sold at the door on the night of the event. Standard tickets cost R150 and VIP tickets (which include 3 complimetary drinks) will only set you R250. If you want to start the fun in an intimate setting, the doors open at 7pm. The show will then start at 10pm.

Just so you know, I've seen Simphiwe perform a few times and have been amazed each time. Actually, the first time was when she was introduced to the music scene performing for one of former Metro FM broadcaster, Thabo Mokwele's segments of the live shows he used to do. I was bowled over by the powerful voice that she possesses. So,if you also want to experience the that same magic, don't miss the show. Check out the flyer above for more details. You can also contact Kgotso on 0730491074 for more information.

For map to the venue, please visit www.thabengmanagement.co.za

MTVbase Nights rock Latinova in Jozi

MTVbase launched a series of themed night events a few months ago in different venues around the country where local talent is showcased, in support of the network's objectives. These parties/shows take place every first Friday of the month.

This past Friday MTVbase did it large as we ushered in the new season, Spring. The MTVbase Nights last Friday only featured 2 artists that were nominated in this year's MAMA's as MTV Africa's Road To The MAMA's. When the awards were launched last month, I asked MTV Africa's Communications Director if this project would happen this year in the build up to the actual event. She confirmed it will, but in a small scale with smaller events in clubs; and this past Friday just paid testimony to her response.

It was a great night filled with great music in the form of performances from MAMA nominees HHP and Gang Of Instrumentals (who featured super hip hop producer Omen in their first song), as well as hip hop deejays C-Live, Dimplez, Master M and Jay Music. Siya a.k.a. Slikour was the MC for the night and he did a great job getting the crowds hyped up. There was also a snippet where Proverb coached a young lady who wanted to face her MC'eeing fears as part of the Airwick Challenges that Airwick and MTVbase are doing.

Great music, great conversations with great individuals like HHP, Slikour, Melanie Ramjee and Sizwe Dhlomo, what else can a party-goer ask for. Oh, there were also some NBA players in the house.

Keep it locked here for next part of the MTVbase Nights taking place next month.

Tony Rich has arrived to serenade revellers at Golf Reef City thios weekend.

You may have heard a few months ago that the soulful crooner will be in the country to perform 2 exclusive shows at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino on the weekend on the 10th-11th July 2009. Well he is here, I believe he arrived a day before yesterday.

For those that are not familiar with Tony Rich or his music, he's one of the most under-rated and prolific musicians and songwriters of our lifetime. He first attracted attention as a staff writer for the Babyface- and L.A. Reid-led label La Face, churning out hits for the likes of Boyz II Men, Johnny Gill, TLC and Toni Braxton.

He then decided to mix different sounds of rock, jazz and soul music into his own music. Late in 1995, he released his hit single Nobody Knows which went all the way up to number 2 on the Billboard Charts. Under the moniker The Tony Rich Project, he released his debut album in early 1996; an album which scored him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album. He has released 5 more albums after that, included in that impressive catalogue the Nobody Knows: The Best of Tony Rich Project compilation.

If you enjoy the music of the era when La Face ruled the music scene or if you are into soulful and inspirational kind of tunes, be sure to check out Tony Rich live at The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City Casino, this coming Friday, 10th July 2009 and Saturday, 11th July 2009. He'll be supported by our very own crooner, Thabo Mdluli. It's one of the musical experiences you don't want to miss.

Tickets are selling out fast, so make your bookings through Computicket or at The Lyric box office on 011 248 5000 or log onto www.goldreefcitycasino.co.za.

Pics by: Cobus Bodenstein

Levi's® Vintage Sundays features Prime Circle and jacSharp this week

Levi's® Vintage Sunday’s will be continuing its hugely successful Sunday night jaunts in Cape Town for the month of July hosted at Jade Lounge, bringing the ever-increasing crowd an eclectic array of South Africa’s hottest live talent. All the choice you could wish for absolutely nothing - it’s for free. So extend your weekend for a few more hours, and come down to get down to the music.

The Jack Mantis Band got things off to a smooth start on the 5th when they took to the stage with their even bass tones.

This week the eclectic sound of jacSharp who is already exploding both in the international and South African markets will surprise you with their unique genre of music. They’re followed by one of the country’s most successful rock bands, Prime Circle who has recently just released their third, and undoubtedly best record, nominated for a SAMA award. They’re always a revelation live and all you need for a power-packed evening.

Venue: Jade Lounge
Address: 49 Main Road, Greenpoint
Contact Number: 021-439-4108
Time: Doors open at 19h00 show starts at 20h00
Cost: Free

Don't miss out, I have seen Prime Circle perform many times before and they always bring it on.

Levi’s® Vintage Sundays tenure for June ends

The Mother City gears up to to the final stage in the ever-popular Levi’s® Vintage Sundays local music showcase for this month.

On the final Sunday in June – the 28th – Jade Lounge plays host to another trio of excellence. Starting things off is Farryl Purkiss, the man with a golden voice and heartfelt guitar performances who’s going to show exactly why he spends most of his time on the road gigging. He’s followed by Tina Schouw, the singer and songwriter whose eclectic taste and intuitive ear have seen her collaborate with dancers, poets and thespians.


Ending the night, and Levi’s® Vintage Sundays’ June run, is Simon van Gend, a guitarist and singer whose depth and insight are matched only by his unique, catchy take on folk and rock. It’s going to be a grand finale to a spectacular opening month with more to come in July.

Check out these great bands as they showcase their amazing talents at the Levi’s® Vintage Sundays at Jade Lounge on the 28th of June 2009.

Africa Day delivers a feast of Arts & Culture

The energy was a positive and amazing one as Africans from this beautiful continent congregated at Mary Fitzgerald Square to celebrate our triumphs and diverse cultures. People from all over Africa braced the cold to be part of a unifying force in the continent, our music. It felt so good to see people having fun and a great experience.

One of the highlights in terms of performances has to be Asa, the Nigerian soul singer based in Paris. As usual, she delivered a soul-stirring performance, in between songs pleading with Africans to come together, not just for a day like this, but all the time. DJ Awadi also got the crowd dancing with his energetic presentation of hip-hop-inspired grooves. Although Gang Of Instrumentals have very catchy songs and really know how to get the crowd grooving, I felt for some reason the sound was not up to standard when they did their set. Still on the local front, The Parlotones gave a steling recital of rock sounds, creating a wave of excitement as the crowd sang along. And I would not be doing justice if I didn't mention the Grammy award-winning outfit Soweto Gospel Choir who sand like angels on the night.

It was a great evening, filled with great music and great food, as well as great conversations with interesting people. I was introduced by a friend to Masilo (model/actress/TV presenter who recently presented the SABC 2 show Artcha), and realised she is actually a nice lady. I spotted Paul Mashatile, the new deputy minister of the Arts And Culture porfolio with who I presumed to be his wife at the VIP marquee. In the crowds, I saw Thandiswa Mazwai having fun, and also saw and had a brief chat with DJ and producer Blackcofee who offered his support with model girlfriend Chwaita, despite his looming flu.

I can't wait for next year, when the spotlight shines on Africa again, highlighting our music, art and culture.

Joe Nina sizzles at the launch of his new album

Awesome music and great food were the order of the day last Friday when Joe Nina launched his latest album, Unchained. When I received an invite a few weeks ago, I didn't even know he had a new album out, which really assisted my decision in attending the event. I've always been fascinated by his vocals on any track that he sings in, since his early kwaito days.

It was a treat to see performing live such legends like Mpharanyana, Babsy Mlangeni, Steve Kekana and even Nana Coyote (Coyote and Kekana being Nina's very good friends that teamed up together for an outfit called Trio a few years ago). Their respective talents are still undisputed, hence managing to still sound great after all this time, whether tackling new music or sailing through their old and timeless gems.

To make the event extra special, we were served an array of traditional foods earlier in the evening, meals including samp and imfino, mogodu, pap, chicken feet, etc. Actually, Gallo has always prided themselves in treating their guests to such, thus showing their pride in our rich and amazing culture. The same can be said for the diverse musical genres encompassed in their versatile artist catalogue.

I haven't listened to Joe Nina's new album, Unchained, but judging from that evening, I can assure you that it's hot. It should be at stores already, so go and get your own copy.

True Love All A Woman Needs day is upon us again

It's all systems go for this year's TRUE LOVE All A Woman Needs Day, where beauty, fashion, music and much more will be the order of the day as the women's beloved magazine stage their 2009 edition of the successful ladies' extravaganza.

Get to Computicket now and book your tickets for the TRUE LOVE All A Woman Needs Day in Association with OLD MUTUAL, on 2 May 2009, at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.

Following its smashing success of the 2008 All A Woman Needs Day, TRUE LOVE magazine will be hosting yet another vibrant extravaganza of beauty, fashion and pampering! “This event was conceptualised by our TRUE LOVE team as a way to say thank you to our loyal followers and to welcome our new readers to the fold,” says Dorah Sithole, TRUE LOVE editor. “The day is an opportunity for readers to experience the magazine face-to-face, to interact with the lifestyle, the products and the TRUE LOVE team. The magazine will literally come alive for a day,” she adds.

This special day is going to astound, amaze and exhilarate all who attend!

For more information on this unique and exclusive experience, head on to YEAHBO.DOT.NET.

SAMA's are just 2 weeks away

With the SAMA's just a forth-night away, spirits are flying high from different musicians that have been nominated, the artists that will be rocking the stage, as well as presenters handing out the statuettes, and music lovers and supporters throughout the country. The tickets are selling and selling very fast, so hurry up and get yours (from Computicket).

It's promising to be a fun-filled night, what with current IT boy Trevor Noah announced as the host for the night. I believe this choice was the right and wise one by the organising committee, that boy is extremely entertaining on stage, immensely talented. I'm really looking forward to the charisma he will inject in the once very lively affair.

Don't miss out on the 15th Annual MTN South African Music Awards taking place at Sun City on the 02nd of May 2009. If you can't make it, make sure to catch the live broadcast on SABC1 at 20:00. And also, the race is still on for the Record Of The Year, so please head on to samusicawards.co.za to see how you can vote for your favourite artist or song to scoop this sought after catergory.

Cape Town Internation Jazz Festival: Profiling Jonathan Butler and Incognito

We started a feature last week where we are profiling some of the artists performing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, leading to the spectacular festival. Our latest profile features our very own international guitar maestro, Jonathan Butler, as well as UK's funky and jazzy outfit Incognito. I decided to pair these two bands because over the weekend I had an absolute pleasure of watching their respective live performances on their latest DVD's that should be out at stores now or soon, thanks to Sheer Music.

Jonathan Butler

Jonathan Butler needs no introduction, really. He's more than honed his skills as a songwriter, singer and guitarist for decades and this is evident in the live DVD that was recorded in South Africa towards the end of 2007, simply and aptly titled Jonathan Butler Live In South Africa. What made my watching of the DVD more special and fulfilling was the fact that I was actually part of the audience during the recording on that beautiful evening at The Venue in Melrose Arc. I even managed to spot my self for a brief half-second, but I digress. The size of the venue created a great sense of intimacy and warm ambience. The actual performance was top notch, with Butler belting out most of his history-making hits since the advent of his career.

One of the many highlights was his collaboration with Mabi Thobejane on 7th Avenue, and Mandela Bay. Mabi excelled in his role as a traditional percussionist, whilst Butler did what he is famous for on both guitar and vocals. The rest of the band equally shined, providing concrete support to Butler. There are a few skits where Butler takes us through more than just his music, in a few showing us where he grew up and reminiscing on those early humble beginnings. For years, one of my favourite songs from the Cape Town-born musical genius has been I'm On My Knees, and will probably remain so for a very long time. Therefore I was ecstatic that he performed the romantic ballad, with many others that follow in my favourites list; like Sarah Sarah, Lies and his unsullied rendition of the Bob Marley classic, No Woman No Cry.

The experience Butler's progression from young Cape Town boy to the international superlative and respected musician, get Jonathan Butler Live In South Africa. You'll indubitably be moved by the magic seeping from that wonderful moment in our arts and culture heritage where many other notable names in our different industries were present.


Incognito

Having entertained masses for a very long time, it's only fitting that Incognito present their fans with a wonderful gift of their golden sounds packaged into a live DVD. It took a show at the Java Jazz Festival staged in Jarkarta, Indonesia last year to have the benefit of enjoying their inimitable plethora of music. And to say they brought the house down is an understatement as the audience couldn't get enough.

In a band or group environment, you usually get at least 1 person that shines and overshadows others. However, that is not the case with the eccletic band made up of members from different parts of the world, including Africa (the originator and band leader Jean-Paul Bluey Maunick, affectionately known only as Bluey, is from Mauritius). Although they sound magnificent as a collective, each member is given an equal chance to shine on their solos, whether it's on vocals, or the horns or the piano or bass guitar or drums. That ability to show such remarkable presence in such a huge band takes a lot of strength and confident in your talents, therefore each and every member in the band is laudable for the great work they contribute to the British band. Not to mention the energy displayed with such comfortability and ease.

Their wholesome ability to display copious amounts of emotion in their sets also intensifies their substance as musicians. This results in an irresistible and moving repetoire, from the dynamic funky tunes, to the memorable soul ballads, to the gospel-laced numbers transformed into easy party grooves. These qualities put them above their counterparts in the jazz and soul genre. The mere knack for interpreting new music, at the same time inspiring with their versatility is really amazing.

The live DVD will be released in May 2009 in South Africa, so look out for it at the music shops. If you don't get to see them when they are here in a few weeks, this should be more than enough consolation.

Siphokazi proves humilty will take you far

The roads all lead to the Mother City for the Cape Town International Jazz Festival at the beginning of April. If you haven't done your bookings whether in terms of getting there or accommodation, move faster because you might just find yourself missing out on this amazing spectacle.

Leading to the festival, we shall be featuring profiles on some of the artists that are featured on the line-up for the 10th Annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Opening things up is Siphokazi, whom I had a chat with over the phone yesterday. She is one of the musicians that will be burning the torch from the Mzansi at the festival. We chatted about a few things, including what this milestone means for her and what her musical influences and inspirations are. Here is a highlight of the conversation:

What does being invited to performance at one of the biggest festivals in the world mean to you?

I am extremely excited. I'm still very overwhelmed. It's very humbling that they chose me to be part of it. Although I'm still not sure which day I'll be performing on (Friday or Saturday), I'll be sharing the stage with people I'd never dreamed I'd perform with."

What should the audience expect from your show?

A lot of nice music. I also respect people because they have shown me a great deal of respect, so I'll make sure I rehearse a lot so that I can give them my all. It's going to be much and much fun.

The rest of the write-up is at YEAHBO.DOT.NET.

Legendary Madala Kunene gives Durban a taste of his Magic

Iconic musician Madala Kunene is no stranger to the jazz music fraternity and it is with immense disappointment that we don't get see his name as frequently in the lineups of big jazz festivals and concerts. I believe though that if promoters and other organisers could give him more support, this may change, however late it may be.

The people I'm referring to are such souls as Neil Comfort, of Artslink, who has fought tirelessly to give a platform to South African musicians, mostly the ones from KwaZulu Natal, to showcase their impressive talents. One such musician is Madala Kunene who will be serenading jazz and music lovers at large, with his moving and superb talent at a concert planned for tomorrow, 06 March 2009 at The Playhouse.

Madla Kunene will be headlining a once-off show at the Zulu Jazz Lounge at The Playhouse (on Smith Street) tomorrow night. The doors open at 7pm and the tickets cost just R60. For bookings, call 031 3042373. Don't miss out, it's promising to be a sizzling show.

Metro FM turns up the HEAT!

Set to send the crowds fanning themselves with excitement, on Saturday, February 21 at 11h00 the METRO FM Heatwave will blow up steam at Innis Free Park, Sandton with a sizzling line-up of artists.

On the bill will be performances by METRO FM MUSIC AWARD winners Rhythmic Elements (who scooped both the highly-coveted Song of the Year as well as Best Dance Album awards), Best Hip-Hop nominee, JR as well as performances by Brickz, Theo Kgosinkwe, former member of the multi-award-winning Mafikizolo. In addition, METRO FM's very own DJ Fistaz and DJ Nutty will take on the wheels of steel in a live outside broadcast.

With ticket prices for this party-to-end-all-parties priced at only R100, the Jozi masses will no doubt be flocking to Innis Free Park to make sure that METRO FM's Heatwave 2009 is where they're at. Tickets are available at Computicket only. No tickets will be sold at the gate and no bottles will be allowed.

The METRO FM Heatwave is held to honour recent METRO FM Music Award winners and nominees - as well as to thank loyal fans and listeners who voted for them - this annual series of events is now in its fourth highly successful year. The next action-packed leg of the Heatwave 2009 will take place in Durban on February 28.

Final line-up and dates announced for CTIJF. It's hot, hot, hot!!!

Some time in December last year I published a post about the initial line-up for this year's Cape Town International Jazz Festival (see HERE). Yesterday I attended the press conference and launch where the rest of the artists gracing the different stages at the spectacular festival for this year were announced. Celebrating 10 years since its inception, it's promising to be another great feast of music spanning the globe. With an assortment of genres, sounds and disciplines, what a great way to celebrate a decade of this magnificent event.

The artist everybody seemed to be most excited about as event organiser Rashid Lombard went through each musician on the line up was rapper Mos Def. Known for his conscious and educational lyrics in his music, as well as his colorful acting career, it sure would be interesting to see what he brings into the festival. Other big names that caught my eye included our very own Jonathan Butler (accompanied by Dave Koz), 340ml, Sibongile Khumalo (a collaboration with Mike del Ferro and Shannon Mowday), Shakatak, Abigail Kubeka, Siphokazi, and of course other names that had been mentioned in December last year, musicians like Incognito, The Stylistics, Zap Mama, Hugh Masekela, Freshlyground, Diane Reeves, and many more.

The Cape Town Internationa Jazz Festival is taking place at the same venue, Cape Town International Convention Centre, on the weekend of the 3rd - 4th April . There are other activities though happening the week leading to the final spectacle, namely, the notorious free concert at Green Market Square, taking place on April Fools Days, as well as the signature workshops running from 28 March 2009 to 4th April 2009. For only R485 for a weekend pass and R330 for a day pass (and an extra R25 per show for the acclaimed Rosies stage), you can be part of the Mother of all Celebrations.

This is a not-to-be-missed music extravaganza so start preparing now. It's not called Africa's Grandest Gathering for nothing. Please go to capetownjazzfest.co.za for more details on the complete line-up, tickets, accommodation and other information you may need.

You can also check out YEAHBO.DOT.NET for artist profiles and more as the date draws closer.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: A bevy of talent for Audi Collection Finale

Beginning with an awesome gymnastic routine, the Audi Collection closed the Audi Joburg Fashion Week with a bang. With designers like Gavin Rajah, Hilton Weiner, Heni, kluk CGDT and Craig Port joining forces, it was an amazing assortment of backgrounds and talent. The models strutted their stuff to the electric sounds of a live purcussion band. As the guys beat the drums, the models showcased what the above designers have gleefully cooked for this fashion season.

The first designer to show his collection was Gavin Rajah, giving us a glimpse into what he did for Paris Fashion Week not too long ago. Gavin Rajah is always on point with his world-class designs. Reatining his signature colour pallette use, he once again showed us why he is one of the best in the world.

Craig Port's men's collection was awesome, with really smart and explicit designs. I particularly loved one of the ensembles that featured a pants, shirt, waist-coat and a jacket (see second model on the right on the second picture). The use of simple, yet unique and creative designs proved successful for the Cape Town-based designer.

Also doing a great job was Hilton Weiner. Hilton Weiner are anynymous with their vast use of linen. The soft and subtle fabric was once again the main feature in the collection that was fresh and crisp. The use of sandals, even for a full 2 to 3-piece attires gave the collection an extra urge and sense of fashion-forwardness.

As for Heni, he used a lot of reds and blacks in his collection. Some of the garments were a bit weird, but the creativity side of his designs is certainly appreciated by the fashion world. The accessories also gave his clothes an exra oomph.

Last, but certainly not least, is kluk CGDT. Their women's evening were consistet of very feminine and smooth evening wear. With simple cuts and soft fabrics, I believe it's every women's dream to be seen donning one of their creations.

That was it for Audi Joburg Fashion Week for 2009. I'm looking forward to what the other Fashion Week series will bring us later in the year. Gotta go to the after-party and have fun now.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: Marie Bishara in a league of her own

Today was the forth and final day of Audi Joburg Fashion Week 2009. I wanted to see Thula Sindi's progressiveness but didn't realise that his show was the first one for the night, therefore missed it. I'm not complaining though as I thoroughy enjoyed seeing Egyptian Marie Bishara's outstanding piece of work.

Her traditional Egyptian elements were present in her collection, but she added a certain level of sophistication, class and style on most of the garments that made her show stand out from other female designers. From day wear (mostly complemented by crocodile sandals) to cocktail/evening wear, it was absolutely stunning. Her clean-cut designs and attention to detail make for a top-notch fashion designer. The collection exudes her flair for fashion in every way possible.

It seems designers like Gavin Rajah have some tight competition from this Egyptian threadsmith. Not only is her understanding for womenwear up there, but the professionalism could be seen through the show with how she dressed the models.

Audi Joburg Fashion Week Series: David Tlale tones it down a bit

He's been known to go to the extremes when it comes to creativity in fashion, but David Tlale tones it down in his latest collection. I guess many people were highly anticipating to see what the edgy, trendy and creative mind would put out this time. Last night there was a difference in his approach to creativity, slightly toning down from the somewhat weird clothing he has done before.

David Tlale seems to understand his art, especially when it comes to women's clothing. The dresses, the ladies' pants, the skirts, and the ladies' shirts were all done in precise cuts and phenomenal abstract designs. Spotting similar designs he had done before was a bit of a letdown, although he put a nice twist into them.

The guys clothing was marginally great and creative, although he tapped into his over-creative mind, again resulting in rather weird designs at times. The case in point in this reagrd would be the MC Hammer-style of pants that dominated the men's clollection. Although you could see where his head was, it's just not imaginable that a guy would wear those type of pants in real life, but again, you will never know.

David Tlale used a lot of metallics in his collection, including silvers, golds and bronzes. I noticed a great use of tweed as well, for pants and jackets (coats). The classic checkered fabric was also a huge feature in the clothing. Overall, the collection was good. It contained a lot of well-done garments and cordination was perfect. The blending of African beading accessories, even the shoes, gave it an added edge and spunk.