From Weekend Special
‘Minister of percussion’ John Hassan once again enthralled the jazz scene with Hassan’adas’ second studio album Asante sana. The 13 track release features Bokani Dyer (co-producer, piano, flute), Sisonke Xonti (soprano sax), Jaco Maria (vocals), Lucas Khumalo (bass), Julio Sigas (guitar), Deodato Siquir (vocals) and Chris Bakalanga (vocals). KEANETSE MOKHOTHU chatted to him about the behind-the-scenes Hassan’adas vibe.
What’s central to your shared musical experience?
It is that making music a conversation between or amongst the musicians, whether in studio or performing live. We listen to each other and respond to what is being played at each moment. We have to feel the music the same way so that we’re on the same page at all times.
What quality do you look for in your sidemen and women?
Firstly, a great attitude. It is important to have sidemen who are open to different situations, experimentations and suggestions. Then, I always look for musicians who understand my style of music who are very versatile since I cover a wide range of feels and styles. They must be able to do this at the highest level.
How do you approach everything?
I always approach everything with an open mind, I always go with how I feel at that moment.
In your solos do you think you’re entering uncharted territory?
Not necessarily uncharted territory, but I feel like I am saying something different from what others are saying because it is my story, it is my approach, it is the way I see and feel things.
Do you think you have limitations?
I would not call it limitations, but every time you go over a hill, there is a new one to climb. As musicians, we always want to improve our playing, our composition skills, our overall craft. So, we are always learning new things and try to do everything on the highest level. So, I am always pushing myself to be better every time. That is why the best musicians are always practicing.
How are you expanding on your latest album?
With Asante sana I am looking at promoting it locally and internationally. There are still obvious challenges because the music industry is still reeling from the current global pandemic restrictions. I am in communication with European-based agencies too. By the way, I plan on doing a live video recording of the album as well.
Which local towns and cities have you touched thus far, and how has the reception been?
Well as you know, the music scene has not really opened up yet. It is still crawling, so promotion is very challenging. We have done Cape Town gigs so far. We were in Joburg 2 weeks ago, Rosebank, Sandton etc. The reception was amazing. The people loved the new album and the live performances. We had quite a few more venues wanting us to do some shows but time we were faced with time constraints.
What music do you listen to?
Yes of course. I listen to all great musicians both from South Africa and around the world even though my primary instrument is percussion and I play some acoustic guitar.
Hassan’adas gig
Alliance Française du Cap
Friday, 21 October 2022, 7pm
155 Loop Street, Cape Town
Tickets https://qkt.io/2sVct5
Info: Luvuyo Kakaza – 060 960 8935
Who: Multi-instrumentalist Hassan’adas
John Hassan albums: Asante sana, Look Now
Discover more from Hassan'adas
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