Artist description Cheza is a Swahili word that means to dance, to play. Cheza's music has been described as Afro-pop, garage-soukous, and folk-African fusion. By blending the styles of central and southern Africa with rock and folk influences, the musicians of Cheza are breaking new ground in the world music scene. The resulting harvest is a collection of songs with strong choral harmonies and fluid inter-playing guitars, all unified by an irresistible dance beat. Song themes range from the political to Canadian history to hot spices. Lyrics are sung in a variety of languages, including French, Xhosa, Portuguese, Zulu and Swahili.

Music Style African

Musical Influences Various african styles and folk music

Similar Artists Johnny Clegg, Savuka, Jaluka, Kanda Bongo Man,

Artist History Cheza was formed in 1993 by singer-guitar player Paul Weber. Paul lived briefly in Senegal where his interest in African music was born.

Group Members Stella Haybukhai, Neema Mugala: vocals; Pat Giunta: guitar and vocals; Stu Watkins: bass and vocals; Rob Graves: percussion; Phil Bova: drums; Paul Weber: guitar and vocals;

Instruments guitars, bass, percussion, drums

Albums Cheza; Shaker

Press Reviews "In an era of sound-alike world beat bands Cheza manages to combine traditional sounds with a strong pop sensibility." -- Bart Keaves, Winnipeg Sun, Review Winnipeg Folk Festival / "Reminiscent of Johnny Cleggs Savuka-era recordings, wonderfully fun and danceable album." -- Dirty Linen, World Music Magazine / "Un disque plein d'énergie et de variété, qui nous fait lever de nos chaises et danser! Le bonheur!" -- Claudette Gravel, MusiMonde, CBC

Location Ottawa, Ontario - Canada

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