Aql

Aql is a new musical project created in May 2025. Based in Johannesburg, a group of ex-Capetonians came together with a mutual love of Cape traditional Goema music, and a desire to bring it to new audiences, local and international.

Members are :
Mo I - Guitar
Les Javan - Guitar, Bass and Percussion
Ben Amato - Flute, Saxophone and Percussion
Colin Soylite - Vocals

Mo is an elder of the Cape Goema community , and he brings us precious melodies, chords and lyrics from the misty past of District 6 and the Bokaap. He is also an author and academic, currently writing a book about Robbie Jansen and Mac Mckenzie and their contributions to our culture.

Les is a reputable artist in his own right, both as a performer and as a composer for film and TV. He brings a unique passion and subtlety in his approach to creating and performing music, along with excellent arragement and production skills.

Ben played saxophone with the Nagtroeps ( new years eve marching carnival band ) as a teenager in Cape Town, and has always had a deep love for Cape Jazz and African music. He is also a composer and a producer.

Colin is a excellent vocalist who has brought Aql's sound to fruition. He injects the band with energy and focus.