OA2 Artist

...they bring an exciting cocktail that properly tightens the links between Western jazz and African traditions. A startling album and one for the year-end lists without a doubt!
JAZZ'HALO (BELGIUM)

Infusing world sounds with local inspiration, Mhondoro brings jazz diasporas together in one joyous group. From the backyard to jazz clubs and everywhere in between, Mhondoro's feel-good, collaborative compositions are unapologetically honest and resonate with audiences of all tastes. Inspired by traditional Zimbabwean music—the band's name means "lion spirit" in Shona, a language of Zimbabwe—with a decidedly Oregonian lilt, their music is forceful yet accessible, inspiring without being prescribed, but first and foremost it's undeniably fun.

Mhondoro formed spontaneously in reaction to the pandemic and aims to carry listeners through to a new day with power. Together, they are global and hyper-local—truly American, in the best sense of the word, representing unity and providing an artistic escape from modern headlines and exposing exciting possibilities for the future.

Their first album, Heat Wave, released in March 2021, and their second, Ngatibatanei / Let Us Unite!, in April 2024.

John Mambira, vocalist and percussionist, hails from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe; he toured Europe with his band Bongo Love and has international experience in percussion, singing, traditional dance, and marimba band. He is also a member of legendary Zim musician Thomas Mapfumo. John is now settled in Eugene, Oregon.

Idit Shner, saxophonist, hails from Yahud, Israel. She is a diverse performer equally at ease in jazz and classical settings; currently professor of saxophone and jazz studies at The University of Oregon.

Torrey Newhart is a keyboardist, pianist, and composer originally from Bend, Oregon. A consummate performer, Torrey has several releases as a leader and an ongoing project called Obsidian Animals.

Garrett Baxter, a bass virtuoso, is quickly gaining reputation on the national jazz scene and has been a staple of the Portland jazz scene.

Oregon-based drummer, Ken Mastrogiovanni, brings a unique sensibility and modern voice to the drums and the music, making him a rising musician of his generation in his music scene. He is a drummer, producer, composer, and educator.

RECORDINGS FEATURING Mhondoro

Idit Shner & Mhondoro

Ngatibatanei / Let Us Unite!

OA2 Records 22226