Welcome Citizens of Jive

This story starts in 1985.
Louis Ribeiro - Durban born Portuguese Zulu reaches the point of emigration from South Africa to England, having released three albums in South Africa, the third of which won the prestigious South African Grammy equivalent - the Sarie - for best album.
In the decade since, madala Ribeiro set off on the never ending tour of pubs, clubs and Festivals.
Initially as a duo with Dick Heckstall Smith (Coliseum) - refining Louis repertoire toward the English taste - while developing a devoted following at his circuit of gigs.

Around the pillar of his songs, an ever increasing menagerie of players arrived to play with the Madala and JIVE NATION was born.

In the winter of 95 Louis and the band started six months of recording - honing down eleven tracks from Louis considerable repertoire - for production including the performances of many fine musicians.
Drummer/percussionist CHARLIE MORGAN, bass player MO FOSTER, guitarist DOUG BOYLE and singer LIANE CARROL are a few of the players on the album.

The songs are essentially a semi autobiographical account of the life of Louis - tracing one mans struggle with injustice and persecution toward a philosophy of 'love will conquer all.'

Songs about life - cloaked in shawls of sparkling rhythm seeded in the shimmering veldt of Africa and birthed in the supportive womb of London music culture.

Strong lyrics enhanced by a good time beat. Music as suitable for dancing to as it is for listening.

Order your copy of Under African Skies now, and decide for yourself.