SOLACE

Founded in 2005 by Bridget Solane Maswanganyi, the seven-piece ensemble band Solace seemed destined to happen. On the advice of her mother, Bridget set out on a path to create a band that had a signature sound, with the unmistakable jazz roots being fused with other genres of music. Hailing from Polokwane Maswanganyi has always had a creative spirit and, in particular, a passion for music which is influenced heavily by the fact that she grew up in a musical family. Led by Maswanganyi on vocals, who also writes, composes and arranges the music in their repertoire, this dynamic band also features Sbusile Xaba (lead guitar), Given Sithole (piano) and Lally Tshabalala (bass), as well as Sibusiso Vilakazi, Thabo Gwadiso and Mary Khumalo.

Since its inception, the band has been on a path to establish itself as force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz. With a number of significant events in Pretoria already to their name, including the 2007 New Year's Eve celebrations, Solace has already made a huge impression on the music industry in Polokwane. So much so that in 2008, after taking part in the Puisano Jazz Project, funded by the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, they were crowned as the winners of the nationwide search for the next big thing in the world of jazz. The significance of the win was the opportunity to showcase their musical prowess on some of South Africa's most coveted jazz platforms around the country, the most exciting of which was held at the Birchwood Hotel. Not only was Puisano the perfect platform for them to gain some exposure, but the band says that they have learned so much from the experience. Some of the lessons learned include an appreciation of the importance of writing their own material, and the significance of humility on their path to success. "One of the most important things that we have gained from the Puisano project is an understanding of the importance of sharing each other's talent and respecting each other's work as artists," Solace said. "It's important to be aware of your rights as a composer and register music!"

The authentic musical stylings of Solace are inspired by the original era of jazz, and their sound is reminiscent of artists like Diana Reeves, Sibongile Khumalo and Liz Wright. But this is only one dimension of this talented group, who are able to step outside their comfort zone and diversify into other genres of music, including Afro-jazz and pop-funk music.

With music in their hearts and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and improvement in their chosen field, this young collective is destined to take South Africa and the rest of the world by storm.

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