Based: Durban
Led by jazz educator, performer and composer Sue Barry on electric piano and keyboards, the group includes Philani Ngidi on electric bass and Karim Dariess on drums. Vocalist Lihle Ngidi has a warm natural delivery and her vocal range is extraordinary. She goes from soft and low to full throated soprano delivery effortlessly and is equally at home with famous American standards as she is with the great South African numbers. Quiet Storm repertoire includes fusion, jazz, Afro jazz and Latin jazz and there’s always a brilliant rendering of their signature tune!
Quiet Storm has been together for several years and is led by Susan Barry on piano/keyboards and Philani Ngidi on bass. Barry, a lecturer in the jazz programme, at UKZN has worked with Busi Mhlongo for 20 years. Ngidi is one of South Africa’s top bass players as well as being a brilliant soloist who has worked with Busi Mhlongo, Ray Phiri, Ernie Smith, Judith Sephuma, Musa Manzini and many others.
The band performs in and around Durban and Kwa-Zulu Natal, playing at festivals, shows, government and corporate functions, private parties and weddings. The line-up can go from one to nine according to the needs of the event. For smaller functions they often play as a three or four piece band depending on the budget and replace the drummer with a drum machine.