Gugu Sibiya

Gugu Sibiya

Don Laka and Friends at the Civic Theatre, in Braamfontein, proved to be one of those shows that leave you feeling good about being a South African.

The show just crystalised his offering Invitation, which came out late last year. I had listened to it and was in awe of Laka's talent and his ability to continuously reinvent himself. It's brimming full of local talent, featuring the cream of artists with a few surprises.

So, when the chance to see this live music explosion presented itself, I was ecstatic. Though I was not clear how, I just knew that the piano guru was going to unleash his magic. And he did!

He took us through a monologue showcase, showing off the skills that have turned him into a household name, ensuring his longevity as a cremé de la cremé pianist. He was inspired, he was on fire, something flowed from his nimble fingertips to the piano and seemed to have rubbed off onto his band and guests.

He featured Gloria Bosman, Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse, Theo Kgosinkwe and Palesa. Poy Poy Makhubela gave the audience a taste of his hot album and left everyone wondering why he did not just play the whole tune.