UK and Mozambique musical collaboration coming to Chester

The tour, which runs from May to July, will see the pair perform in various locations, celebrating the "universal power" of traditional music.

The Chester performance is scheduled for June 5.

Kate, a UK clawhammer banjo player, and Matchume, a multi-instrumentalist from Mozambique, first crossed paths virtually during the Making Tracks online residency in 2020.

Despite the limitations of virtual collaboration, they found a deep creative and musical connection that has now blossomed into a vibrant new sound.

This sound combines world rhythms, contemporary songwriting, and elements of their respective musical traditions.

Matchume, recognised as one of the new masters of timbila, has an impressive portfolio.

His lineage traces back to Zavala, Inhambane Province, the heart of Mozambique’s timbila tradition.

He has worked in performance, theatre, dance, and film, and has recorded several albums with groups such as Timbila Muzimba, MoSomeBigNoise, Kubilai Khan, and Forest Jam.

Kate, hailed as "one of the top banjo players in the country" by virtuoso Dan Walsh, has toured internationally with her Indo-folk collective Mishra.

She is currently collaborating with Sufi vocalist Deepa Shakthi.

In 2022, Kate and Matchume met in person in Maputo, Mozambique, where they recorded an EP and performed live for the first time.

Their debut UK tour took place in July 2024, marking Matchume's first time touring the UK.

Their live shows feature Matchume's range of percussion instruments, including timbila, xitende, mbira, and congas, along with Kate's banjo.

They are supported by a trio consisting of Evan Carson on drums, Ben Evans on bass, and Ford Collier on low whistle and guitar.

Their music can be listened to and downloaded from various platforms, offering a taste of their unique blend of musical traditions.

For more information, contact Richard Penguin via email at mail@richardpenguin.co.uk or richard.penguin0607@gmail.com, or call 01603 408525.