By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Jazz fans, get ready for a soulful celebration — legendary drummer Sam Mataure is reuniting with guitar virtuoso Louis Mhlanga for the return of the Moving Jazz Café after more than a decade.
The much-loved concept, which aims to bring intimate, high-quality jazz experiences to audiences across Zimbabwe, is making its big comeback this August.
Presented by Jazz 105 Promotions, led by Josh Hozheri and Mataure himself, this year’s edition promises a musical experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
“We’re not chasing big crowds,” Mataure explained. “We’re chasing energy, connection, and a pure jazz vibe — something real jazz fans will appreciate.”
The tour kicks off in Bulawayo on August 8, which also happens to be Mataure’s birthday, and moves to Harare on August 9, offering fans in both cities a rare chance to experience this jazz dream team up close.
For Mataure, the reunion with Mhlanga is both personal and musical. “Louis is a phenomenal performer and a wonderful human being. We’ve worked together before in Music YeAfrika, where I stepped in as drummer after the passing of the late great Jethro Shasha,” he said.
So, why revive Moving Jazz Café now?
“It’s been over 10 years. I was tied up touring with Oliver Mtukudzi and doing other projects. But now the timing is perfect. We’re ready to bring jazz back to the people — in the most authentic way possible.”
The 2025 revival is deliberately designed to be low-budget but high-impact — a boutique jazz experience that doesn’t rely heavily on sponsorship but still delivers big on value.
“Of course, if someone like Sir Wicknell Chivayo comes on board, we wouldn’t mind,” Mataure joked, acknowledging the businessman’s growing support for the arts.
The all-star lineup includes:
Louis Mhlanga – Lead Guitar/Main Vocals
Michael Phillips – Bass
Randal Skippers – Keyboards
Basi Mahlasela – Percussion
Sam Mataure – Drums
The group recently wowed audiences in Lusaka, Zambia, and are now bringing that same magic home.
With Moving Jazz Café back on the map, Zimbabwe’s jazz lovers have every reason to mark their calendars — this is not just a concert.
It’s a musical reunion, a revival, and a rhythmic celebration rolled into one.
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