MindMap-SA Issue 7

Featurethis album is a combination of folk music, traditional South Africansounds and the introduction of world music instrumentssuch as the Indian sitar used in Hindustani classical music.There is also a feeling reminiscent of Kwazulu-Natal maskandimusic on the seventh track on the album called Upper Reaches. Theguitar which is also used in this type of used is strummed in a specificway to give it a more improvisational sound. They also makeuse of the Australian didgeridoo as well as many other traditionalinstruments which combine with the guitar to form wonderful melodiesand reach beyond the conformity of six string finger work.Speaking about some of the creative influences behind the album,Nibs notes his travels abroad as being a source of inspirationfor some of his contributions on the album. He describesthe French audience as being a lot more discerning than the peoplehe has performed for in South Africa. He says, “I’ve beento France a lot, it’s a very discerning audience and also youcan’t bullshit them, they size you up. South African audienceson the other hand are more likely to get lost in the music. Withthe French, once you win them over they can be ravenous fans.There’s a guitar audience around Europe as well which is great”Their travels and international achievements have not allowedthem to forget their home. The Elizabeth Sneddontheatre is where they chose to launch their album,right in Kwazulu-Natal, which has been their home formany years and where they started their music careers.The lack of interest in the arts expressed by some of the Durbancommunity according to Nibs van der Spuy, in comparisonto other big cities in South Africa has not stopped these twofrom coming back to a place they call home in order to givefans of the acoustic guitar a performance that many have beenanticipating. The pair never disappoint, with their calm energythat they share as they play together with a powerful chemistry.This album is an expression of all their combined efforts overthe years and the love the both share for their craft. It has meticulouslyexpressed the combination of musical inspirationfrom around the globe using the guitar as a main lead.Each song expresses a different feeling or experience. In TheShade Of The Wild Fig is an excellent duo album, the workof Nibs van der Spuy and Guy Buttery is a timeless creation.“Speaking about some of the creative influencesbehind the album, Nibs notes his travels abroadas being a source of inspiration for some of hiscontributions on the album.,”