Every Thursday evening, the Rivets Bar at the Durban Hilton, presents Rivets J & B Jazz, from 20h00. This has become one of the highlights of the week for those that like their jazz cool, laid-back and of top quality.

October 7: Sagiya Afro-Fusion Band. This band draws its members from the light music department of Technikon Natal and plays original compositions that fuse local styles including maskanda, mbaqanga and mgqashiyo. Featuring three vocalists: Sifiso Khanyile, Ntokozo Msweli and Gwen Majozi, the band comprises Johan Mthethwa (keyboards), Mbongiseni Zwane (piano), Nhlanhla Mnikathi (lead and rhythm guitars), Zakhele Msomi (bass) and Atlas Duma (drums).

October 14: Brian Thusi Quintet. Brian Thusi, one of South Africa’s most respected trumpet players, teams up with equally well-known and long-time colleague Jerry Kunene. Backed by Neil Gonsalves (keyboards), Philani Ngidi (bass) and Mpo Mathabe (drums), they will play a range of jazz, mixing African and American standards with some zippy originals.

October 21: Bushy Dubazana. This Umtata-based group is led by saxophonist Bushy Dubazana who is also a composer and a teacher. Others in the band are Leon Tutu (bass), Dumisane Lingela (guitar), Thabo Dabula (piano), Mike Gangca (drums) and Lungisa Nombe (percussion). While focusing on their original afro-beat jazz, they will also play standards.

October 28: Jeff Robinson Quartet. With Jeff on flute and saxophone, this talented quartet comprises Mageshen Naidoo (lead guitar), Phiwe Solomon (bass) and Lebohung Mathabeng (drums). They will play a variety of jazz styles with the accent on melody.