Abavuki - Marimba & Brass

Since 2001, the lively Afro-Fusion World Music Ensemble Abavuki, based in Langa, Cape Town, has been performing their cheerful beats both domestically and abroad.

These gifted multi-instrumentalists combine brass (trumpet, sax, and trombone) with traditional African instruments (drums, percussion, and marimbas). Their distinct, colourful, and modern Mzansi sound is heavily influenced by Latin American, jazz, and kwaito rhythms while remaining firmly grounded in African music fundamentals. Abavuki is a hugely popular musician with both domestic and foreign admirers. His music is a celebration of friendship and resiliency, as well as a testament to the joy that can be found in everyday life.

“Abavuki” is an isiXhosa name that meaning “wake up, early birds!” yet despite coming from difficult backgrounds, Abavuki’s positive and upbeat music reflects the band’s cheerful outlook on life and their approach to it.