Summer Kicks 2026: Mbira Renaissance Band & the Travelling Blaeberries

Event Description

Centered around the soulful sounds of the mbira, a traditional instrument from Zimbabwe, the Mbira Renaissance Band offers a fresh, energetic and spellbinding experience of cyclical arrangements, polyrhythm, layered vocals and improvisation. Seamlessly moving between re-interpretations of traditional repertoires and original compositions the band sings songs of family, heritage, celebrations and gatherings. Featuring local Tweener: Travelling Blaeberries

About The Event

The Mbira Renaissance Band is one of Edmonton’s most exciting acts this year! The band’s first full length album, Roto, was released in early 2025, reaching the top spot on the CKUA radio charts in its first week. Known for bringing an audience to its feet, the band’s fusion approach flirts with a range of genres including reggae, jazz, rock and jit, reminding fans of greats such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Chiwoniso, Bhundu Boys and Thomas Mapfumo.

The Mbira Renaissance Band recently returned from a tour in Zimbabwe, paying homage to the homeland mbira music ahead of its album release. Over the years the band has performed in the US and across Canada including at the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival, the Canmore Folk Music Festival, Calgary Stampede and the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival.

Travelling Blaeberries:

The Travelling Blaeberries are a Golden-area collective bringing a rich, road-tested mix of rock, blues, and a touch of country to every stage they land on. Fronted by Wayne Sobool on guitar and vocals, the band features Allan Kennedy on harmonica, Ken Chilibeck on drums, Jeff Dolinsky on sax, Joan Dolinsky on trumpet, and Brian Comrie holding down the bass. Together, they blend grit, groove, and a whole lot of personality into a sound that feels both familiar and fresh.

Their setlist travels as much as they do—rolling through decades of great music with everything from ZZ Top and Neil Young to Chris Stapleton, Santana, Talking Heads, and Joe Walsh. Whether it’s laid-back and soulful or upbeat and danceable, The Travelling Blaeberries deliver a sound that keeps crowds tapping, swaying, and coming back for more.