Hot Water

Hot Water

Hot Water is a South African acoustic band based in Cape Town. Formed in 2005, it is led by singer-songwriter and guitarist Donovan Copley and presents a cross-cultural mix of South African music styles with folk, rock and blues elements.

Formation and line-up

The group begins as Copley’s project and grows into a five-person ensemble representing different cultural backgrounds. Alongside Copley on guitar, lead vocals, hang and harmonica, the line-up includes Leon Visser on vocals, percussion, hang and djembe; Bongani Nikelo on bass guitar and backing vocals; James Kaye on drums; and Siyanda Gulwa on African dance.

Sound and repertoire

Hot Water’s music ranges across upbeat South African jive, hopping blues, modern folk ballads and other cross-cultural pieces. Its sound is described as African in character, with powerful vocals and an emphasis on uplifting arrangements.

Releases and recognition

The band releases two albums, Home and One. Tracks from Home appear on the international EDEL compilation A Day in Cape Town, with five songs selected for the release. The single “Bushfire” is used in Primigi’s 07/08 commercial campaigns in Europe and the United States, and “Thembi” is selected for an IEO commercial screened in Italy. The group also appears in a BBC World-filmed Human Rights Day concert and in an episode of Destination Music, which airs internationally.

Live work and festivals

After forming in 2005, Hot Water is booked within three months to play the Kirstenbosch “Summer Sunset” concerts, one of South Africa’s better-known live events. The band is also scheduled to play the Hague Jazz Festival in Holland in May 2009.

Reception

Hot Water builds a broad audience in South Africa and among visitors, and it is voted Best Band in South Africa by Men’s Health magazine in September 2008.