LATEST RELEASE
Al Tuster
On their newest single Al Tuster, South African duo Breindy and Matt collaborate with Mbuzeni, Maskandi musician. The song brings together the traditions of the two musicians, and weaves the Hebrew words of Psalm 27 with Zulu praise-singing in an ode to the diversity of our South African people.
Al Tuster is a celebration of what is possible when we work together in harmony and bring, in authenticity, the truths of our heritages together.
Both SAMA-nominated artists display a musical style that stems from their rich and ancient ancestral roots. The song is a conversation and if you listen carefully, even without understanding the lyrics, you may find within it your own prayer.
Take Me Back to Woody Cape
Take Me Back to Woody Cape feels like the anticipation of beginning a very important journey.
Breindy's deep harmonious crooning transports you to a dreamlike state where you are both wide awake and fast asleep. Her style of wordless melodies allows you, as listener, to insert your own story and meaning to the shared journey.
The song builds, as you get closer to the "edge", deepening in its intensity and ends with meditative layers of recklessness within the divine structure, transporting you to memories of long-forgotten magic.
In Woody Cape, daring couple Breindy and Matt boldly and bravely push boundaries and challenge definitions.
“I enjoyed listening to 'Al Tuster', it’s such a beautiful musical marriage of different cultures. The sound feels refreshing and welcoming, blending traditions in a way that’s truly captivating. I especially love that soulful maskandi influence, it adds a layer of authenticity and richness that is absolutely beautiful :)”
- Wouter Kellerman, two-time Grammy Award-winning South African flautist and composer
“I just listened to Al Tuster. Congrats on a terrific song! The vocals and instrumentals are well-executed and soulfully rendered. You voices blend beautifully, and your performance is teeming with sincerity. Special kudos to the guitar work, as well. All of the musical elements are excellent and your submission is certainly worthy of support! Congrats to all involved!”
- Eric Holtan, Grammy-nominated conductor with True Concord Voices & Orchestra
“I had a great time listening to Take Me Back To Woody Cape. I really loved it. The song starts with the mesmerizing soft vocals, takes you to the journey of calm and open spaces of nature. Sounds absolutely beautiful. Very well produced. Perfect blend of piano and vocals. Love the arrangement. The energy of the song is constant till the end. This song will leave a lasting impression for sure.”
- Ricky Kej - three-time Grammy Award Indian music composer and environmentalist.
“The music reflects this yearning in the choice of intense rotating rhythms, infectious vocal melodies and moving harmonies - all in a sound world of crossover folk appeal.”
- Prof. Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph
“Even though I don't understand the language, I can tell that this is a wonderful song of blessing. I was very moved! It's a song that Japanese people and people all over the world can really relate to! It's a wonderful song.”
- Takashi Matsunaga, Japanese pianist and composer
About Breindy and Matt
The husband-and-wife duo describe their unique brand of hypnotic music as “ancient-Hebrew, indie-alternative”.
Originally from two completely different backgrounds (Breindy - a rabbi's daughter; Matt having grown up in a secular home), the music they make heralds from Jewish roots and Biblical texts, yet takes shape in a sound that is both ethereal and contemporary; experimental and traditional.
This duo was nominated for their Ruth Ave album at the South African Music Awards (SAMAs) for Best Alternative Album in 2019 and selected as a winner in the Global Music Awards (2020) with a bronze medal for best album.
Breindy and Matt live in Johannesburg, South Africa and have 5 kids.
CREDITS
Al Tuster
Performed by
Breindy and Matt, Mbuzeni
Written by
Breindl Auerbach, Mbuzeni Duncan Mkhize
Produced by
Matt Klawansky
Ruth Ave Studios, Johannesburg 2024
Musicians
Beat - Isaac Klawansky
Bass - David Wein
Guitars - Mbuzeni Mkhize, Matt Klawansky
Synths - Isaac Klawansky, Matt Klawansky
Backing vocals - Mavela Nene, Mbuzeni Mkhize, Breindl Auerbach
Vocals - Mbuzeni Mkhize, Breindl Auerbach
Mixed by
Matt Klawansky
Mastered by
Robin Kohl
Take Me Back to Woody Cape
Performed by
Breindy and Matt
Written by
Breindl Auerbach, Matthew Aaron Klawansky
Produced by
Matt Klawansky
Ruth Ave Studios, Johannesburg 2024
Musicians
Beat - Matt Klawansky
Piano - Matt Klawansky
Guitars - Matt Klawansky
Synths - Matt Klawansky
Flutes - Breindl Auerbach
Backing vocals - Breindl Auerbach
Vocals - Breindl Auerbach
Mixed by
Matt Klawansky
Mastered by
Robin Kohl
Photography
Paul Shiakallis