A fortnight ago, Bridgenorth Studios, the brand new music recording facility housed in the tranquil surroundings of Chisipite, opened its doors to Songs from a Room (Sofar) Sounds.
The Harare chapter of the global music platform, which made its Zimbabwean debut in 2022, celebrated its 15th edition by featuring alternative rock band Mann Friday, emerging Afro fusion outfit Rudzi The First, from Kambuzuma, songbirds Mary Anibal and Masa Caroleen.
The artistes all put up splendid performances making the regular concert memorable.
“Every Sofar show is special and different, but our recent concert had sprinkles of the magic dust. It was an unforgettable night of beautiful and enchanting music that connected music lovers from diverse backgrounds. We are grateful to Bridgenorth Studios for hosting us,” event curator Khumbulani Muleya said.
However, the world-class recording facility is set to redefine the industry’s benchmark for quality and innovation, bridging the gap between local and international productions.
Music enthusiasts said that with its on-site accommodation facilities, the studio will serve as a premier landing space for touring artists seeking a world-class environment to create music and work.
The concert kicked off with the sensational and soulful vocalist Masa Caroleen, who exuded regal energy in a vibrant orange dress, adorned with colourful beaded accessories that she wore around her wrists, neck and shoulders.
Currently based in Cape Town, South Africa, the seasoned performer has headlined Intwasa Festival (2018-2019), Okavango Music Festival (2019), Nyege Nyege Festival (2020), Stanbic Bank Jacaranda Music Festival and the Harare International Festival of Arts, among others.
- Sofar marks 15th edition of enchanting music
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Masa’s debut album Pamusoroi (2019) celebrates southern African heritage, while recent collaborations include The Tale of Stavo, an animation series (2022).
From its inception, Sofar Harare has been spotlighting both established and emerging talent, providing a platform for discovery and connection. This was reflected when Rudzi The First, an Afro-fusion duo, made up of Dr Greyy, born Bright Tawanda Greyy, and Dionne Maregedze, hit the stage as the second act.
Supported by their dynamic band Wekutanga, they blend African rhythms and contemporary styles.
One of the songs that stood out was Dollar, which inspires listeners to seize opportunities and build wealth with integrity.
The youthful outfit then made way for Mann Friday whose music filled the beautiful studio with ambient, atmospheric textures that showcased lead singer and group founder Rob Burrell’s masterful guitar work harmonised with Keith Farquharson’ s piano-driven melodies.
Mann Friday’s single Say Yeah! (2015) was used in a nationwide campaign to play the iconic Edinburgh Festival, Scotland. Their album, Orchard (2002), premiered as a musical at the Grahamstown Arts Festival, South Africa.
Farquharson, the legendary keyboardist, also doubled as the concert sound engineer.
Appearing on the Sofar platform for the second time and fully embracing her artistic maturity, Mary Anibal commanded the stage with her striking presence, adorned with a thick, twisted crown of her signature betsimisaraka-inspired hairstyle from Eastern Madagascar. With mbira in hand, the Gogogoride hitmaker, together with her five-piece band, delivered a polished performance that showcased her impressive vocal range and dynamic dance moves.
Other shows that took place on the same day in other Sofar cities across the world include Taipei (Taiwan), Eskisehir (Turkey), Patna (India), Baku (Azerbaijan) and Kigali (Rwanda).
