AFROSPACE INTERCHANGE is a collective of Melbourne musicians, formed to explore and celebrate the rich tradition of South African Jazz. The group coalesce around the extraordinary rhythmic impetus of drummer Brian Abrahams (Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Abdullah Ibrahim, Dewey Redman, Archie Shepp) and his legacy as a living legend of this art form. Over the past two years, the band has honed its sound through a weekly Wednesday night residency at Old Plates Record Bar in Fitzroy. The residency has quickly established a reputation as one of the city's most joyous and exciting musical hang-outs.
The house band, co-led by bassist ZviBelling and pianist Pat Jaffe, is joined by a diverse range of weekly guests, creating a cultural exchange between Australian and South African improvisers. Over 60 guests have now featured, including South Africa’s Jason Reolon and Sello Molefi, touring members of the UK band Cymande, and stalwarts of the Melbourne scene such as Nkechi Anele, Flora Carbo, Audrey Powne, Callum Mintzis, Holly Moore, Cheryl Durongpisitkul, Ronny Ferella, Zac O’Connell and Ebs Daramola.