The Orbit – A home for Jazz

This according to successful jazz drummer Kesivan Naidoo who launched his second studio album at the club on 4 and 5 October.

Naidoo said when he lived in Johannesburg in 2001 and 2002, Baseline, which was then based in Melville, was the centre of and home for jazz musicians and jazz lovers alike.

“Since the club closed down and relocated, the Johannesburg jazz scene was without a home for 12 years, and jazz musicians had no central space for them to perform,” he said.

Being a club owner himself, Naidoo praised one of Orbit’s owners, Aymeric Péguillan, who he said has dedicated himself to taking the music and moving it forward.

“The facilities are amazing and the club is not only one of the biggest in the country, but is also world class. It’s the small things that make it what it is – it has a real piano,” he added.

“Aymeric’s dedication and commitment to jazz has created an optimum environment where musicians can express themselves.”

Naidoo performed some of his new compilations, including the piece Freedom Dance which includes a sample of Madiba’s speech at the Union Buildings after his release.

Upcoming shows include:

7 October – Cnirbs (DE)

8 October – Nomfundo Xaluva Quintet

9 October – Titi Luzipo Sextet

10 October – En Fuego – The Orbit Salsa Band

11 October – Sisa Sopazi Quartet

Details: The Orbit 011 339 6645; info@theorbit.co.za