Mangolongondo Night dishes traditional vibes
Old-timer Boniface Ndamera of Lucky Stars Band famed for the hit ‘Chinafuna Mbale’ and ethno-musician Waliko Makhala of the bush music tone alongside John Fire and Chigo Nyasulu on Friday treated patrons at Kwaharaba Art Gallery and Café in Blantyre to a feast of traditional sounds.
It was a gig that saw different styles of music from the acts but what came out of it all and won the hearts of the people, was the mellowness of the musicians in serving music aligned to the country’s culture.
Nyasulu, a former member of Karonga-based Lusubilo Band, who also stars with Mibawa, was the first to hit the stage and armed with among others, a saxophone, excited people with his sound attached mostly with traditional elements from the Northern Region.
Next up was Waliko, who was not part of the line-up but came in as a surprise set and offered one song that spoke extremely about Malawians lack of urgency in doing things as is the case in other countries.
Waliko paved way for Ndamera, whose introduction by host and actor and contemporary dancer Robert Magasa attracted a delirium of cheers.
Ndamera continued from where Waliko had left and although their some slight interruptions due to technical glitches, the veteran musician sparked showing that old wine tastes better.
He dropped a few numbers before performing ‘Chinafuna Mbale’, the track that was recorded long time ago but it continues to enjoy the limelight even in weddings.
Ndamera amazed people with his unique strumming of the guitar.
“The biggest challenge that I have now is that I do not have a promoter and this is why I am struggling in terms of holding performances and also recording songs otherwise I have more songs,” he said.
John Fire real name John Ndaferankhande was the last and he too did not disappoint.
The artist has enriched his live sets with time and he was a marvel to watch on Friday as he breathed life to his act by featuring Dikamawoko Arts dancer Thenson Bakali.
Backed by among others, percussionist Anthony Supiliano, on his itinerary included songs such as ‘Kalulu’ and ‘Wondilenga’.
“It has been a great show and the people, who patronised the concert enjoyed every moment. It is all about promoting Malawian music,” he said.
Apart from offering entertainment, John Fire, said Mangolongondo Nights are also aimed at mobilising resources in the fight against cholera.
Ndamera returned once more to close the curtain with ‘Chinafuna M’bale’ to please the audience, who were still in need of more.
