A NEW chapter was opened when a fallen hero was remembered in style.

Durbanites and music lovers flocked to the Bat Centre on Friday when Sipho Gumede was remembered through what he did best - music.

The event was an initiative of Sheer Sound in conjunction with eThekwini parks, recreation and culture and the Bat Centre.

Gumede was born in Cato Manor near Chesterville and his earliest music memories were of playing a guitar and a penny whistle.

Durban-born Bongani Nkwanyana and Brian Thusi, with Selaelo Selota, performed at the concert.

They also launched their solo jazz CDs in honour of the late bass guitar maestro.

Nkwanyana, well-known for backing Gumede for more than 10 years, launched his long-awaited album titled Ithemba Lami.

The album is a mix of traditional and adult contemporary African musical threads.

Nkwanyana is said to be the next big thing after Gumede's passing.

Nomakunjalo is what Thusi showcased to the crowds at the launch.

The seasoned multi-instrumentalist is a well known jazz artist in and around Durban.

This year he has expanded his audience and performed at popular festivals such as the Grahamstown Annual Festival and the Joy of Jazz in Johannesburg.

An added bonus to the show's line-up included the unequalled guitarist Selota - the man behind the success of Judith Sephuma, also his former wife.

Selota launched his latest release Lapeng Laka. The album reaffirms him as a high energy, deep-rooted Limpopo man.