Thndo “The Reintroduction”

Soon after making it to the ‘final four’ on The Voice Australia 2022, the now Melbourne-based Thando changed her name to Thndo, signed with a new management team (August MGMT), and embarked on an East coast tour.  In the past Thndo has performed to huge crowds at festivals including Bluesfest, Womadelaide, Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Groovin the Moo, Big Sound, Jungle Love, and Woodford Folk Festival.

Moving to Australia in 2001, Thandolwethu Emily Nomvula Sikwila began singing at eight years old and speaks of being awed watching video footage of Freddie Mercury as he commanded the stage at Wembley Stadium and deciding this was what she would/must do with her life.  She is also more vocal now about growing up black in Australia, her struggles with displacement, discrimination and gaining a deeper understanding of black pride. 

On stage at this year’s Cabaret Festival, in her appealing humble and generous fashion, Thndo shares less than pleasant aspects of her personal life and relationships and how the experiences enabled her to grow and flourish.  These moments of wisdom also feature in the second half of The Reintroduction where we are treated to her original material which will appear on a new album.

Opening the show however, Thndo began with Chaka Khan’s 1978 hit “I’m Every Woman” in full soul voice supported by her one back-up singer, Michaela Jayde (herself an accomplished performer) and a phenomenal, tight four piece.  Under the musical direction of Cristian Barbieri (lead guitar) and inspired accompaniment by Caleb Shand (bass), James Bowers (keys), and Anthony Murray (drums), the entire set was perfection.  The resonant, velvety vocals and surprising range from this artist captivate, the audience totally in sync and yelling for more.

A short jazz rendition of “Whatever Lola Wants” (by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross for the 1955 musical play Damn Yankees) certainly brought a sensuous vibe.  Composed by Randy Bowland and made famous by Jill Scott “Celibacy Blues” might celebrate abstinence but the delivery has quite the opposing effect with Thndo on lead vocals.

Throughout the evening, the Zimbabwe-born singer shared much about her growth as a person and artist.  Singing “Love of My Life” next (Freddie Mercury), her father’s favourite song, Thndo pared back the delivery allowing an honest vulnerability to shine through.  Reflections on being a mother also came to the fore with comments about one’s life purpose and holding yourself accountable as a parent and (as I can well relate) “not wanting to raise and a**hole”.  Hoobastank’s “The Reason” and "I Am Changing" from Dreamgirls spoke volumes and definitely cast a spell on the room.

After a short band break, Thndo shed the original spangled outfit for an all-black showstopper to introduce us to her original songs including “4EVA” and several others from her forthcoming album “Lessons in Love”.  Continuing to bewitch us with her authenticity and a beautiful storytelling flair that weaves songs together with heart, Thndo is an artist who exudes sincerity.  Her voice is a revelation of power, lyricism, and depth and there can be no doubt that the stage is where she belongs.

The collaboration with her musicians is also an achievement.  Chemistry, respect, and deep connection are apparent between them all and indelibly consigns an impeccable standard to the flow and quality of the music.  It did take a couple of tracks for the technical mix to settle, but thereafter, the sound production was excellent. 

The Reintroduction is a fusion of Gospel, Soul, R&B, Jazz, and Music Theatre, with a side of Rock influence and a whole lot of originality.  Catch it if you can.

Lisa Lanzi
Photographer: Leila Maulen