The countdown to STRAB 2011 begins

Hurrah! The warm up to STRAB 2011 is here, and that means jam sessions every Monday night, starting on 31 January 2011 at Cafe Barcelona.

For those of you not quite up to speed, STRAB is an annual festival/beach party situated at Ponta Malongane in Mozambique. More chilled than most SA festivals, and a bit cleaner thanks to the ocean, it's a great one to go to for those who aren't all that keen on bush-style hedonism. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty hedonism. But this is beach-style.

The 2011 festival takes place from 26 – 29 May. Bookings open on 31 January and tickets tend to go fast. Accommodation varies from camping to log cabins, depending on your own level of bundu-affinity.

Each year marks an interesting mix of both known and unknown artists. The good people at STRAB focus heavily on the quality of the choons provided, and seldom disappoint. It's a great opportunity to learn some new things and experience a slightly different vibe. It is a nzima party.

To keep up with developments for the festival or for more details, join their facebook group or check out the new website at http://www.strab.co.za/.

The jam sessions feature SA up-and-comers, shows billed to start at 7, but you know how these things go. Cafe Barcelona is offering food and drinks specials on the nights, so you may as well make an evening of it. Make a point to check out at least some of the gigs, and support local music.