A SOUND of Zimbabwe is coming to the Malvern Hills as a colourful dance band performs in the area.

The energetic eight-piece act Imbongi are fronted by the nation's charismatic performance-poet Albert Nyathi, who has performed in front of none other than former South African president Nelson Mandela.

And the group will be taking to the stage at the Fringe Theatres in Malvern Youth Centre, Albert Road North, Great Malvern, at 8pm tomorrow. Mr Nyathi has previously won the Zimbabwe National Poetry Award and the group Imbongi - who will be joined by South Africa's 'Prince of Masakanda Guitar'

Maqhinga Radebe - were chosen to represent African Music at the Youth Congress in Hawaii in 1999.

Audiences in Malvern will be in for a treat as the dynamic act put on a show as stunning visually as it is musically, fusing words, songs, music and dance.

The group comprises male and female dancers and vocalists who collaborate with keyboards, guitars, drums and Mr Nyathi's poignant poetry to create a vigorous and highly-charged performance of contemporary African music. Their own vibrant blend of music mixes traditional, blues, jazz and contemporary African styles, the power of the songs and rhythms of Zimbabwe and South Africa interwoven with the beauty of the dance.

With well-received performances at Glastonbury Festival, Sidmouth and WOMAD already under their belt, audiences in Malvern should be delighted by their concert. Tickets are £7 (£5).