South African music producer, sound engineer, singer, and songwriter Thando Kunene celebrates the release of his highly anticipated sophomore album ‘Emlotheni’ (in the Ashes).

Th&o. is a critically acclaimed, Johannesburg-based sound artist and sonic world-maker. His sound is an inspired blend of synthpop, electro-funk, and contemporary R&B. Th&o. and a four-piece band graced fans with his first live show in anticipation of his sophomore LP Emlotheni.

The JamLive event which Untitled Basement and Narowbi organised saw friends, family, new and old fans alike pour in. Hosting an evening to celebrate Th&o’s much-anticipated record as well as enjoy his first live performance.

As we waited for Th&o and his band to take the stage, the room simmered with excitement and anticipation. Flowing conversations and laughter filled the space before the evenings host ushered a hush over the room. One by one the band filled into the space to cheers. Following a brief introduction Th&o stepped onto the smoke filled stage and was welcome with a wave of whistles, whoops and hollers and a roaring applause. His fans had waited long enough for a live performance and their excitement could not be denied.

The producer, singer and sonic-world maker was joined on stage by Simphiwe ‘Magic Hands’ Ngcobo on the keyboard, Iyke Abu on the Guitar, Manu Simeli on the bass and synth Bass, Fundile Dlamini was the music director and was on the drums. Michelle Avanthay who features on Emlotheni engrossed on the backing vocals.

Opening the set they played a few numbers from his previous record and welcomed the fans into the night. Barring a technical issue that stalled the energy of the opening songs, the night felt like a homage to a long journey. A celebration of an arrival and elation for what was yet to come.

The show gave fans a glimpse of the Th&o who sits alone at 3am exploring the sonic rhythms of his heart and mind. He shared his music with us but the real pleasure was witnessing him experience and get lost in the music. Offering a moment of engagement Th&o opened the floor for questions. This light hearted moment offered a window into the man behind the music as he shared his brand of humor and his endearing youthful personality with the audience. A levity that you don’t always experience in his music.

Sharing his gratitude and intentions he mentions that “this evening is a lot of learning and sharing my heart”. In expressing his dedication to his craft he adds, “I’m always thinking about songs and making music. Thats my goal for now. Maybe next year I’ll be like, I want to fill out domes. I’m not there, right now it’s just making better songs, being a better writer, being a better singer.”

This brief moment was followed by the popular record Prosecco. At this point the audience simply could not contain themselves anymore and the room was filled with song and laughter, and thick with jubilation. This energy carried as they shared music from the upcoming LP.

Serenading the audience with Blood, Shinju, Lonely and Night Till Dawn. All music with his unique blend of synth pop, electro-funk and afro bass.

Blood, made with American sound artist Erick the Architect, reminds me of his love of the 70’s with its cosmic and celestial musings. And true to his style and abilities he synthesises a bygone time and 2024 with ease.

Shinju with its Japanese anime influence offered towering backing vocals and an electric guitar that took us on the epic hero’s journey.

They also played the first single off of the album Lonely. And though the set was meant to end with the party that is Night Till Dawn, the audience were able to coax one last song out of the band closing the evening off with a bang and an infectious suspense for the rest of the record.

Following the success of his debut and the experience of the Jam Live session, this new body of work is sure to be an exciting journey through sound. The 9-track invitation into the mind of this creator debuted on the 15th of November and can be found on major streaming platforms.

Nounouche Contributor: Toby iMpendulo kaNgomane