Witch

‘It’s pure WITCH: funky, a little mischievous, and unbelievably danceable.’ – Clash Music 

Once upon a time, WITCH (aka We Intend to Cause Havoc) ruled Zambia, blowing the minds of a generation with their radical sounds. Zamrock wasn’t just music, it was rebellion, a sonic renaissance and a powerful act of self-definition funnelled through fuzz pedals, sweat, and spirit. Drawing from psychedelic rock, garage funk, blues, and traditional Zambian rhythms, it was raw and unpredictable – like James Brown jamming with Black Sabbath in a Lusaka backyard. The band’s electrifying guitar sound is both primal and futuristic – the distortion heavy, the grooves deep, and the energy untamed.  

The iconic ensemble is survived by lead vocalist Jagari Chanda and keyboardist Patrick Mwondela, who came back after decades in obscurity following a major NY Times profile, an award-winning documentary and brilliant 2023 comeback album, Zango. Following their triumphant sold-out 2024 world tour, WITCH make their Melbourne Recital Centre debut with their phenomenal new album, Sogolo. 

Praise for WITCH 

‘What they created wasn’t an echo, but an origin point. The world is only now beginning to catch the frequency.’ – The Quietus 

‘The band converted a crowd of new listeners into hardcore fans with their signature mix of stoner rock with African grooves - a mix that was impossible not to move to.’ – The Music 

Tickets

Premium $75
A Reserve $65
B Reserve $55

A Transaction Fee between $4 and $8.50 applies to orders made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply. A ticket limit of six is in place online to ensure fair ticket access for all. Want to bring a bigger party? Call our Box Office during business hours on (03) 9699 3333 to book.

About the Artists

The full story of WITCH is almost too amazing to believe. Known as the 'Zambian Beatles,' WITCH founded the 'Zamrock' movement and released seven albums during the '70s and early '80s. Tragically, the AIDS epidemic brought an end to the Zamrock era and claimed the lives of all original members other than Jagari. WITCH's music was reissued in 2012 and prompted their rediscovery and ultimate reformation. Zango was met with rapturous acclaim including a major NY Times profile, sold-out world tours, and an award-winning documentary that screened globally. 

With Sogolo, WITCH have resoundingly delivered the sound of a band whose creative spark continues to blaze, proof that their legacy is still far from finished.