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“..Hypnotic African rhythms, syncopated vocal harmonies, significant reggae infusion.. This band is fun.” – Rootsfan

Playing music out of Zimbabwe, by way of Edmonton, Alberta, The Mbira Renaissance Band delivers an afro-fusion sound like no other. The group combines the mbira and other traditional instruments with contemporary sounds to produce a rich blend of vibrant polyrhythmic sounds. The result is an upbeat blend of the contemporary mbira sound with hints of reggae, afro jazz, and afro pop – inspired by the sounds of artists such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo and Chiwoniso Maraire.

Twice nominated for the Edmonton Music Awards in the World Music Category, The Mbira Renaissance Band has been a feature in Western Canada for the better part of the decade. The group has played at events such as the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival, the Calgary Stampede, Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Fest, the Kaleido Fest and the Summer Kicks series by Kicking Horse Culture – bringing audiences large and small to their feet with its upbeat performance. 

In 2018, the group released its second EP, Famba, which is available on all streaming platforms.

Chaka Zinyemba (mbira,vocals)

James Stuart (bass)

Chi Zinyemba (vocals; hosho)

Geo Koufogiannakis (Guitar)

Munya Vialy (Keyboard)

Dwayne Hrynkiw (Drums).