Matthew Mole performs at historic Cape Church for Black Bottle

The Central Methodist Mission (CMM) on Cape Town’s Greenmarket Square recently provided a superb setting for an unforgettable performance by local singer/songwriter, Matthew Mole. He appeared with Page Mac, Jeremy Douglas and for part of the programme was accompanied by members of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra.

The late 19th century church chosen for the concert, has a history of fine preachers and outstanding choirs and is notable for its graceful design and outstanding acoustics.

The event was sponsored by Scotch whisky brand, Black Bottle and formed part of Studio 7’s ongoing series to showcase the best of local talent in interesting and intimate venues.

Mole, who is just 22, shot to stardom with the 2013 release of his debut album, The Home We Built, produced by Matthew Fink. It earned him the top spot on the South African iTunes album charts. He is the first local artist to get to number one with a debut release.

Lizanne Mouton, Black Bottle SA brand manager; Matthew Mole; Paige Mac; Taygan Govinden, Black Bottle SA marketing manager; and Jeremy Douglas

Lizanne Mouton, Black Bottle SA brand manager; Matthew Mole; Paige Mac; Taygan Govinden, Black Bottle SA marketing manager; and Jeremy Douglas

Endearingly shy, the former Fish Hoek resident is modest about his international following that has taken him to the US, UK, Russia and even Thailand to perform.

The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra members, who performed popular songs such as Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine with Mole, included Janna Khweis Thomas, Odile Lesch and Piet de Beer on violin, Cara Coetzee on viola and Dane Coetzee on cello.

VIP guests were served the bold taste of Black Bottle at Inn on the Square, before the concert and during the interval. The blended Scotch whisky is made according to a recipe kept secret for more than 130 years. “It’s a distinctive whisky with a golden colour and a nose that is fresh and fruity. The palate is full, with a slightly honeyed sweetness,” says Black Bottle’s SA marketing manager, Taygan Govinden. “We are proud to be associated with Studio 7 Sessions. They create an ambience and an attitude well-suited to Black Bottle.”