Harare is one of the few groups to be playing Zimbabwean dance music in Europe. Formed by a musician from the heart of Zimbabwean urban music, Harare combines different styles from Jit Jive to traditional hypnotic rhythms of the mbira (lamellaphone/thumb piano). Harare music is also heavily influenced by chimurenga, the genre developed by music guru, Thomas Mapfumo. Founding member and virtuoso marimbist Kudaushe Matimba was a member of the Zimbabwe's legendary Bhundu Boys. Bhundu boys were a groundbreaking force in the African music industry, as they paved the way for more artists to reach commercial success in Europe and the US. Harare's music is about social awareness, life yesterday, today and tomorrow, advice, respect, love for one another and compassion. It expresses emotions such as pain, love, wisdom and rage. Words to their songs are performed in Shona language of Zimbabwe. Kudaushe brings both old and new compositions and arrangements to the Harare set. Some of the songs are traditional ones from Zimbabwe, based on the traditional instrument, the mbira. Kudaushe strongly believes in the importance of preserving one's heritage through music. Harare have the style, momentum & experience to show there is a promising future ahead for Zimbabwean based dance music and for their exciting new songs & arrangements.
