African Time Music

“ African Time necessitates a rethinking of our notions of time. It speaks to the temporality of freedom - that colourful negotiation between the present and past. Herbie Tsoaeli’s approach is, therefore, an expression of a simultaneously modern and ancient confluence in music, which is culturally bound to the historical mission of ushering in a different time and sensibility. Ultimately, African Time is a set of value systems expressed in and through the music. ”
- Athi Mongezeleli Joja

Cuts from At This Point in Time: Voices in Volumes Studio Recording Videographer: Ts'eliso Monaheng

At This Point in Time: Voices in Volumes Rehearsals at Mnana House (2021) Herbie Tsoaeli Private Collection

African Time Jazz Assembly, Zimasile Mvulane Rehearsals at the Trevor Huddleston Centre (2023) Herbie Tsoaeli Private Collection

Music of the People, By the People, About the People

Voices in Volumes

  • " Herbie Tsoaeli is a highly skilled virtuoso musician, extremely complementary and supportıve accompanist, a gifted composer and generous ensemble player. More than all of these, Herbie is a pure joy to be with be cause of his joyous personalıty, sunny disposition, infectious laugh and friendly accessibility. I love Herbie Tsoaeli like a brother I never had. "

    Hugh Masekela

  • " This is our new era of Jazz in South Africa and the future is bright because Herbie Tsoaeli is always coming up with new surprises with his leadership skills and prowess on the bass and music composition. Thanks. "

    Andile Meshack

  • " Malum’ Herbie Tsoaeli’s African Time is a monumental cultural achievement. Never forget! "

    Kamohelo Phele

  • " I'm loving this project ❤ it just speaks to one's spirit. Bab' Tsoaeli, Siyabonga! for keeping the lamp burning. May the Almighty continue to bless and keep you for us🙏 "

    Spha Sokhabase

  • “ If you have been listening to South African creative music in the past 25 years, you have probably been grooving and swinging to the bass of Herbie Tsoaeli. His sound carries history and memory. Adroit, uncompromising, yet always soulful - Tsoaeli’s voice as a bass player is alive in the South African Songbook. ”

    - Steve Kwena Mokwena