Last night SA Times had the pleasure of attending a dinner at the South African High Commission commemorating the 90th anniversay of the sinking of the SS Mendi – a WW2 tragedy in which 607 South African troops lost their lives. It’s a fascinating story and you can read more about it in the next edition of SA Times.

The highlight of the evening – other than seeing members of the South African navy in their dashing regalia – was a performance by the SA Navy band. They truly surpassed all our expectations. “No ordinary navy band,” a member of the High Commission warned us after seeing them perform earlier that day on Trafalgar Square.

Indeed not.

This must be the most representative and diverse band we’ve ever seen represent South Africa. Their members cover the entire age and cultural spectrum of the Rainbow nation – and so does their music.
“I think the only South African genre they didn’t cover was Hip Hop,” remarked one guest. Classical brass band instruments are complimented with the marimba and penny whistle and their repertoire included opera, Afrikaans folk, typical Cape Carnival renditions complete with twirling striped umbrellas, and covers ranging from Freshlyground to Louis Armstrong.

Apparently they’re world renowned, but this is the first time we’ve had the joy of hearing them perform. Hopefully when they next return we can show of their talent to a wider UK audience.

Maybe some web genius out there can offer to create them a worthy website.