Abstract Truth

Abstract Truth—not to be confused with similarly named groups in other genres—was a South African rock band that emerged in the late 1960s and quickly became known for their creative fusion of blues, folk, jazz, and psychedelic sounds. The group was originally the brainchild of guitarist Ken E Henson, who had previously played with bands like The Leeman Ltd and helped form Freedom’s Children before launching Abstract Truth. Despite a short lifespan, the band made a big splash on the Durban music scene, releasing two studio albums and a compilation during their brief existence from 1969 to 1971. The classic lineup featured Henson on guitar and vocals, Peter Measroch on keyboards and flute, Sean Bergin on flute and sax, and George Wolfaardt on bass and vocals, among others.

Abstract Truth’s albums, including "Silver Trees" and "Totum," showcase their eclectic, jam-oriented sound—blending British folk, jazz, and psychedelic influences in a way that reflected the international counterculture of the era, while remaining rooted in the unique context of South Africa’s musical underground. The band’s music was praised for its adventurous spirit and creative arrangements, even if their wider recognition was limited by the isolation of South Africa at the time.