Don Laka with special guest Adam Glasser
South African pianist, composer and producer Don Laka has been making music for over 50 years. Known in part for his innovative fusion of native South African musical styles such as kwaito, kwela and marabi with jazz & even classical music, he was honoured by the South African Music Awards (SAMA’s) with a Lifetime Achievement award in 2017. Don’s many recordings, whether as a solo artist or with his various bands including Ymage have become required listening for his many fans, and in addition, he was Grammy-nominated for his producing work with another SA legend Hugh Masekela.
Don’s special guest for the 606 show will be another South African familiar at the Club, pianist & harmonica virtuoso Adam Glasser. Across a rich career spanning over four decades Adam includes performances with Dudu Pukwana, Pinise Saul, Hugh Masekela, Sting, the Eurythmics, Incognito, Joe Zawinul & other luminaries, and was also the musical director of legendary SA vocal group the Manhattan Brothers for 16 years. Apart from performing songs from Don’s 50 years of repertoire, the band will also be showcasing material from Don’s new album “Kwela”, to be heard for the first time live in the UK on this tour. A unique opportunity to see such a fantastic international artist in the intimate setting of the 606.
“Laka…one of the most influential figures in this country’s music scene” City Press; “Laka… the legendary musician comfortably straddles across a number of music styles…extraordinarily attractive music” Rosebank Killarney Gazette; "[Adam Glasser]... has brought a truly unique voice and idiom to the constantly evolving language of jazz... a challenge to equal for sheer scope of virtuosity, musicality and surprise" AllAboutJazz