This ensemble brings together a wide range of musical influences, including West African traditions, South African jazz, indigenous South African musical forms, neo-folk, and contemporary jazz. The compositions are crafted to highlight the unique strengths of each member, with an emphasis on improvisation and attentive, responsive interaction among the musicians.

Our aim is to honour the musical legacies of those who paved the way for us, while situating their influence within our present moment and projecting it toward the future. These ideas are expressed through the guiding concept of Phuzumoya. In Zulu, Phuzumoya literally translates to “drink the wind” or “embrace/kiss the wind,” and refers to the gathering of people in shared experiences and exchanged energies—a process often infused with spiritual and ancestral meaning, where “people” may also include the presence of spirits. Through this, a sense of community, mutual respect, and collective celebration emerges.

Phuzumoya Quintet will feature: Jonno Sweetman on Drums, Adam Powell on Keys, Justin Bellairs on Alto Sax, Khaya Salter Mthembu on Guitar, Zenzele Mthembu Salter on Bass.