David Kramer’s Kalahari Karoo Blues at the Baxter, running till 19 January, is sensational. This vibrant show is a tribute to Kramer’s extraordinary musicality and South Africa’s rich musical heritage.
In Kalahari Karoo Blues David Kramer is once again presenting the unusual and sometimes very old music styles from the far corners of Southern Africa – the Kalahari, the Hardeveld and the Klein Karoo. From the one stringed Kalahari ‘segaba’ of Oteng Piet, the upside-down guitar styling of Ronnie Moipolai, the sounds of the handmade fenjoro violin of Babsi Barolong, and the incredible teaspoon slide playing of Hannes Coetzee, Kramer explores the connections of ancient stringed instruments to their modern counterparts.
Ronnie Moipolai, who like Hannes Coetzee, has become a YouTube cult figure with his upside-down left hand “katara” styling and his flamboyant bass-string technique has to be seen to be believed. This is the first time that ‘troubador’ Moipolai performs outside of Botswana.
The line up of stars you get to meet also includes Mary Kriel, a folksinger from Vredendal, who accompanies herself on a coffee tin and the well-known Sonskynsusters who have sung with him on previous occasions. Ruth Hector’s rendition of Kramer’s ‘Calvinia’ redefines the blues – it’s a goose bumps performance.
The music is infectious. The idiosyncrtaic charm of the performers totally captivating. The staging and presentation has a folky charm that is enhanced by the non obtrusive professionalism of backing musicians and sophisticated audio-visuals. And David Kramer holds it all together in a wonderfully nonchalant and seemingly impromptu style.
The opening night performance received a tumultous standing ovation. What a great theatrical and musical experience to kick off the year. Bravo David and your incredible team of artists.
Kalahari Karoo Blues performances are Tuesday to Saturday at 8pm from 9 to 19 January only, at the Baxter Theatre, with tickets from R110 to R160 via Computicket.
