BCUC to make Berlin stop on European tour

The Berlin date, which coincides with BCUC’s spring European tour, is being made possible by the Music In Africa Foundation in partnership with the Siemens Stiftung, Goethe-Institut and Germany’s Foreign Office. The platform will also showcase the Music In Africa initiative to cultural industry stakeholders in that country. BCUC is expected to take the stage following a panel discussion titled Networked Worlds: Co-production Platforms in Cultural Work.  

Hailing from the Soweto township in Johannesburg, BCUC first made major waves in South Africa in 2009 and quickly became a staple at festivals around the country with a contrasting style of percussive-laden arrangements and black consciousness lyrics. The band’s shows are characterised by heaving grooves and long, hypnotic passages that have struck a lasting chord, ironically, with South Africa’s rock fans – arguably because of the act’s nonconformist approach.

Unlike many politically affiliated artists who often make appearances at party-sponsored events, BCUC is critical of absolutely everyone – as evidenced by this Mail & Guardian interview with journalist Lloyd Gedye – and its collective message lambasts especially those who think of themselves as morally superior in a country marred by devastating social challenges.    

The band comprises Nkosi ‘Jovi’ Zithulele, Kgomotso Mokone, Thabo ‘Cheex’ Mangle, Mritho Luja, Lehlohonolo ‘Hloni’ Maphunye and Skhumbuzo Mahlangu. Mosebetsi Ntsimande of the band Uju is a featured bassist and touring member.

BCUC begins its European tour in Venice, Italy, on 10 May with 17 dates around France, Germany, Holland and Belgium to follow. During the tour, the band will also make appearances at various European festivals, most notably the eclectic Festival Musiques Métisses in Angouleme, France, on 31 May.

Admission to the Berlin performance is free. For more information about BCUC’s European tour visit the band’s official Facebook page.