Photo: Lerato Pakade

We were lucky to see Vimbs Mavimbs on stage with Asher Gamedze opening sublimely Le Guess Who? in 2022, and it was one of those gigs that always stayed with us. An immensely talented and prolific composer, bandleader, producer, musical director and bassist, Mavimbs has for long been a creative force, collaborating with South Africa’s most celebrated artists across jazz and beyond, both on record and on stages at home and abroad. After two decades of growth, exploration and musical evolution, he is now ready to step into the spotlight with his debut solo album. Entitled Late Bloomer, the record was born from identity, resilience and the beauty of becoming in your own time. The title itself is a statement of patience and purpose. “This album is for whoever listens and thinks, I’m a late bloomer in some way, too,” Vimbs commented. “We all have our times of blooming, and whatever your process may be, my hope is that this music reflects into your world, and that you’re able to bloom wherever you need to be blooming in this universe.”

Late Bloomer will see the light of day on June 12th through La Reserve, and ahead of it Vimbs has already shared its lead single, ‘Love Drive’.  Speaking about it, he says:

“For many years, the heart of a creator has carried a unique weight, the quiet struggle to find a moment of stillness amidst the constant urge to build. This song was born from that very longing; it’s a soft exhale for anyone dreaming of wide-open spaces and the freedom of the road.”

Disarmingly beautiful, spacious and heartfelt, ‘Love Drive’ serves as a stunning introduction to the album. Listen to it below.