Cape Town-based Jazz Saxophonist Wins Two SAMAs

Moreira Chonguica has walked away with not one but two glowing accolades for his latest album, Citizen of the World

Originally from Mozambique, Cape Town-based Jazz saxophonist Moreira Chonguica was awarded two SAMA awards for his second album - ‘The Moreira Project Volume 2 - Citizen of the World’, for ‘Contemporary Jazz’ and ‘Best Album Packaging’ at the 15th Annual MTN South Africa Music Awards (SAMA’s) held at Sun City in May 2009.

A second time winner at the SAMA’s, having won the Best Producer album in 2007 for ‘The Moreira Project Volume 1 – The Journey’, this year demonstrates that he has truly grown from strength to strength as an artist and clearly increased interest in jazz with the public.

Comments an enthusiastic Moreira: “What can I say except it’s a great feeling to be acknowledged by your peers and the public and to be part of keeping jazz alive in Africa.”

The Moreira Project Volume 2 - Citizen of the World’ was mastered in Paris by Philippe Brun, took three years to compile and was launched in 2008. The album includes 18 tracks and collaborations with rewound artists, such as international jazz legend Najee, the Lion of Africa - Manu Dibango, up and coming hip hop artist Simba, local vocalist Jaco Maria and the cream of Cape Town musicians.

Album artwork was photographed by world renowned photographer Zwelethu Mthethwa (living in Cape Town) and beautifully captures unique glimpses of Moreira’s musical journey thus far.  

Want to know more? Read our comprehensive review of The Moreira Project Volume 2 - Citizen of the World.

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