The Mavr!x is a musical collaboration between Jeremy Karodia and Ayub Mayet which spans over twenty years. In the 80’s they wrote and composed music that they performed for cultural and political rallies to help mobilize community awareness in the resistance to apartheid.

After a lull in their collaboration during the 90’s, they resumed playing and composing again in 2002 and still write songs based on social, political and environmental issues that have a bearing on our lives.

Since 2002 their music has evolved into an innovative and unique sound. The duo has created a platform to include three young and talented musicians to diversify their sound. Shahzaadee Karodia, a classically trained violinist, Reshma Lalla, a self-taught santoor player and Ketan Parshotam, a classically trained tabla maestro, form the new nucleus of the band.

The album is a compilation of original songs including:

“Guantanamo Bay” is a song about the illegally captured detainees being held by the U.S.

“Stains” & “Hallowed ground” present social commentary about child and women abuse and recovery from drug addiction respectively.

“Vulindlela” means “open the way” and is a song about the celebration of life!

“Malibongwe” celebrates the African renaissance.

The two instrumentals, “Shadows in the Stream” & “Notorious”, composed and arranged by Jeremy, is another highlight of the album. They feature Jeremy’s mentor, Faizel Boorany, and his former student, Reza Khota, on guitar.

The CD also features Marc Duby on bass and Godfrey Mgcina on congas, percussion and Djembe. The CD was recorded and mixed by Ian Osrin @ the Digital Cupboard.

There will be two live performances this year:

Venue:    Mayfair Cultural Centre, Mayfair
Date: 9 December 2004, 7.30 p.m.
Entry:    R30.00

Venue:    Gandhi Hall, Lenasia
Date: 15 December 2004, 7.30 p.m.
Entry:    R30.00