Andrew
Takudzwa Chihambakwe
THEY say it is more difficult to stay on top than to get there.
This probably rings true for gospel music outfit, Zimpraise.
For over a decade, the group has serenaded audiences across the globe. However, the glory days seem to have dimmed now.
Most people argue Zimpraise is now a shadow of its former self.
But fans that watched their act at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), on Independence Day, as Zimpraise launched their new project “The Jesus Revolution”, were partially forced to reconsider the view.
The ensemble managed to deliver a decent show despite a talent exodus that has hit them over the years.
Popular vocalists that include the likes of Pastor’s Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, Antonnete Mabhena, Mpostori Wency and the charismatic Wellington Kwenda amongst others have since switched base.
Unsurprisingly, followers of the group expected the ensemble to struggle at the storied venue.
However, that was not the case.
Zimpraise was not off the mark. The vocals were pretty much good and that is what matters most in music before anything else.
The major challenge of the day, nonetheless, was the fact that most people came for new songs, but they mostly got old compositions.
This was contrary to advertisements on their social media platforms indicating that a new album was being launched, hence the high anticipation for a new brew.
Probably this is what pained many during and after the show as they felt cheated.
The situation was even made worse as the energy and magic exuded by the likes of Kuda Mutsvene was also missing.
Zimpraise’s choice of black attire also proved unpopular.
However, Zimpraise leader Joseph Madziyire is unfazed.
“Bishop TD Jakes taught me never to major in the minors, but to focus on the bigger picture. I do take criticism. I consider constructive criticism and we will build from there,” he said in a radio interview.
But despite all these shortcomings or glitches, if you like calling them, there was a moment of brilliance!
And this was delivered by none other than Nicholas Chirunga when he led a new track titled “Hoko yeRudo”.
What a jam that is!
The almost full to capacity auditorium was thrilled and even requested an encore after he had finished performing the song.
We did not get the chance to sample other tracks on the new project, but this already feels like a potential hit song.
The situation was to move to the next level when Jah Prayzah came through and delivered class in two tracks “Miteuro” and “Chikomo”.
The act temporarily drove fans into a frenzy and helped soothe a part of the disgruntled crowd.
Fans parted with US$10 and US$20 for the ordinary and VIP tickets respectively.
Meanwhile, Zimpraise has its work cut out.
They need to raise their standards once again and do it like they used to.
The youthful faces in the choir have loads of potential to do better. The only challenge is probably on how to find a way to make them tick.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter