A tasty pot of Culture, Rhythm, and Storytelling - Chakalaka Jazz & Big 5 Boogie

In this reflection, Bonginkosi "Mellow" Klaas takes us on a personal walk-through of his experience working with Fred Spider, on projects Chakalaka Jazz and Big 5 Boogie.

Chakalaka Jazz is more than just a vinyl compilation - it’s a vibrant blend of culture, rhythm, and storytelling. Presented by Fred Spider the executive director of Voom Voom Records in Cape Town, it’s a collection of gems from the 1970s that captures the heart and soul of South African jazz.

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First reminiscence of Chakalaka Jazz was Fred showing me a t-shirt which had printed on it, chakalaka and we got into chatting about it out of my own curiosity - being quite familiar with the term from my early childhood in Soweto, Johannesburg. In that conversation Fred told me, it’s going to be the name of his upcoming compilation he was working on. Chakalaka - a delicious mix of sounds, much like its namesake dish. The idea of curating a project that felt both nostalgic and timeless excited me, and I knew I wanted to be part of bringing this unique compilation to life.

Working on Chakalaka Jazz was such an exciting experience for me. Fred, Hilgard, a late friend of mine, and I spent hours immersed in the warm crackles and soulful melodies, tracing the origins of each piece and imagining the moments that inspired them. It wasn’t just about selecting tracks; it was about creating a tasteful experience for our listeners and curating a vibe that speaks to the heart. I remember one evening, after a long day of listening and sorting through countless records, we sat back and opened a bottle of wine and let the music tell its own story.

Cultural Connection

Chakalaka Jazz captures the essence of South Africa's rich musical heritage. This makes me reminisce on a time when jazz was not just music - it was a genre of storytelling, a way of articulating identity and survival. The compilation's fusion of indigenous jazz with local flavour makes it universally appealing, yet unmistakably part of South Africa's cultural landscape.

To me, Chakalaka Jazz is a celebration of unity—between generations, between music, and between people.

Experiencing the Music

Being a music lover, Chakalaka Jazz was a whole new experience. The compilation doesn't resurface old records - it breathes new life into them. There is a distinct mood for every single song, from smoky and intimate to wild and celebratory.

I was taken on a wild journey with the mesh of brass, keys, and percussion - these elements having a sweet conversation, each instrument weaving in and out. The warmth of the crackle of vinyl created a second wave of nostalgia, grounding the music in the past and location.

Being Part of the Music Video - Big 5 Boogie

In the recent past, I had the chance to direct and co-produce a music video for Sweet Reaction - Take it Easy (Simbad ft. Fred Spider remix), a standout track from Big 5 Boogie.

The process was equally rewarding and inspiring. On set, there was an undeniable energy; conversations which felt like music, creativity bursts, and a collective passion for the project. Everyone on set made the entire experience feel effortless and fun.

One moment that stuck with me was watching an extra instinctively move to the rhythm of the track- almost instinctual, becoming one with the music playing. Groove had a new meaning for me. Beyond it all, this opportunity gave me the creative freedom to tell a visual story that felt true to the music. Now this exists as a reflection of Voom Voom Records; layered, rich, and filled with soul. This is a core memory forever now. It’s truly remarkable when powerful visuals meet insane music - you get a tasteful scene.

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Having been part of these projects allowed me to witness the beauty of blending the past with the present. Both experiences provided me with a feeling of belonging—not just in the world of music but also in cinematography and the film industry. For that, I will forever be in gratitude.

In Music We Trust,

Voom Voom Records