empty cell Allen Kwela Octet
Allen Kwela Octet was a jazz ensemble led by South African guitarist Allen Kwela. Their debut album, "Allen's Soul Bag," released in 1972, showcases Kwela's transition from kwela music to modern jazz, blending soul jazz elements with South African musical influences. The album was reissued in 2025. Another significant work, "Black Beauty" from 1975, was recorded in one day at Satbel Studios in Johannesburg and features four original tracks performed by an octet of musicians, including notable names like Kippie Moeketsi and Barney Rachabane. These albums are considered landmark recordings in South African jazz history.
