Harare

Harare is a group from Zimbabwe that plays Zimbabwean dance music in Europe. Its music draws on a range of Zimbabwean styles, moving between jit jive, mbira-based traditional rhythms and chimurenga, a style associated with Thomas Mapfumo.

Style and repertoire

The group uses the mbira, the lamellaphone or thumb piano, as a key part of its sound. Its songs are performed in Shona, the language of Zimbabwe, and deal with social awareness, everyday life, advice, respect, love, compassion, pain, wisdom and rage. The repertoire includes both traditional songs from Zimbabwe and newer compositions and arrangements.

Members and background

Founding member Kudaushe Matimba is a virtuoso marimbist and was a member of the Bhundu Boys, the Zimbabwean group that helped open the way for more African artists to achieve commercial success in Europe and the United States. Harare also reflects his belief in preserving heritage through music.