Folk, rock – and a dash of country in Umzumbe

CHERYL and Martin Engel, who perform as the folk rock music duo ‘Connecting Stars’, will be back at The Rock Music Bistro on Sunday, January 25 from 2pm.

Married for 10 years, the acoustic folk-rock singers, who spice their music with a dash of country, are reaping the accolades their musical chemistry has generated of late. The musically gifted South African husband and wife have performed their unique sound live and in studio together for more than 12 years. Subsequent to the launch of their self-titled album in Durban last year and a tour of South Africa, they have performed successfully in the United States.

Their ‘Connecting Stars’ reached number 30 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary Chart by September, a month after it was released and on September 18, 2014, the single, ‘Pieces’, hit number two on the Mr Price South African Top 20.

Cheryl, an experienced songwriter, pens most of the lyrics and leads the vocals while Martin provides back-up vocals and guitar. Ironically, both Cheryl and Martin are music school dropouts. Cheryl went on to earn her college degrees in English and psychology.

Martin diverted from music school to become the owner of Sesalos Media, a South African production company (formerly Dog Ears Studios). Martin’s musical background also includes experience as the former manager and bass player of the acclaimed and internationally successful Tree63.

‘Connecting Stars’ melodies and harmonies are combined with a unique assortment of acoustical guitar and piano combined with a glockenspiel, ukulele, mandolin notes and harmonica.

Also on the Rock programme is a gig, in March, by Cindy Alter, front lady for Clout in the 1970s.

The group had a massive hit with ‘Substitute’ and sold 12 million albums. Cindy is relaunching her solo career and her autobiography and new album will be released around the middle of the year.

Not only is she a great singer but her story is very inspirational. A cancer survivor, she not only conquered the disease but helped to put South Africa on the global music map.