Ubunye at Otley Labour Rooms. Review by Helen Toft.

The world was Upstairs at Otley Labour Rooms on Saturday, March 16 - and it sounded pretty brilliant. Thandanani Gumede and Dave Evans treated us to a set from their band Ubunye (meaning One Unity) along with one special song from their residency with Opera North. Thanda’s stunning fusion of modern South African/UK jazz meeting traditional Zulu vocals was stunningly backed by Dave with his whole body keyboard and harmonies.

The duo overwhelmed a receptive, unsuspecting audience who had packed the room early for this gig.

Songs full of longing for home, loved ones and the taking of strength from migrating song birds filled me up with their surprising and gentle joy as he was singing them at a fundraising night for West Yorkshire Destitute Asylum Network.

It was hosted by the local branch of the Labour Party for Otley Welcomes - the group behind last Thursday’s anti racism rally in Otley - to support those whose claims for asylum have left them with no options.

The music raised our spirits and a grand total of £198 for the cause, which was astonishing and down to the supporters and friends of the other bands on the night.

Rock Salt, from Keighley, performed much-loved covers along with their greatest hit, which has been performed at Glastonbury. Their use of bass recorder made an emotional impact on audience members from countries where pipes are part of a traditional soundscape. Finally, local Woolpack ukelele spin off, Ullalele, with their signature strumming of old favourites, were excited to announce they are writing their own futuristic rock opera.

Thanda leads members of Otley Action for Older People in a multi-generational choir at the Labour Rooms, on Nelson Street, from 10.45am to 11.45am every Thursday morning. Absolutely no talent is required, just an open heart and mind. The next meeting of Otley Welcomes takes place at the Labour Rooms from 7pm to 9pm on Monday, April 15.