Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
From an impressive showing at the 2025 Chibuku Road to Fame national finals, Bulawayo-based ensemble The DAB Band is taking another significant step in its musical journey with the launch of its 20-track album, Umthandazo, set for August 15 at the Bulawayo Theatre.
The launch will serve as the culmination of months of work promoting the 20-track project, which was released on April 9 and has already generated interest among music lovers through a series of live-session performances and online releases.
Formed in 2023 under the DAB Three Events studio portfolio, The DAB Band has steadily established itself as one of Bulawayo’s emerging live music outfits, earning recognition for energetic performances and socially conscious music that resonates with contemporary Zimbabwean audiences.
While the group is rooted in Afro-fusion, Umthandazo demonstrates its willingness to push creative boundaries.
The album blends elements of reggae, Afro-jazz and gospel, resulting in a rich and diverse sound that highlights the band’s versatility and evolving musical identity.
The album is driven by themes of spirituality, hope, resilience and self-discovery. It features collaborations with vocalists SaneLi, Ronald Stone, Bajila and Zenzo Nyathi, whose contributions add depth and texture to the project.
Among the standout tracks are Impilo featuring SaneLi, Sometimes God, Earth Song and Zulu, songs that explore life’s challenges, faith and the pursuit of purpose through powerful storytelling and uplifting melodies.
Since the album’s release, DAB Three Events has intensified efforts to promote the project through a series of live-session recordings under The DAB Band Live Sessions banner.
The group is now preparing for the album’s official launch, where audiences will experience the album in a full live setting.
At a time when many entertainment spaces are increasingly dominated by bands doing cover performances, The DAB Band is positioning itself as a champion of originality and live musical expression.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Archford Hadebe said the growing appetite for nostalgia-driven entertainment has created an opportunity for artistes willing to invest in new music and authentic storytelling.
“We are not here to mimic the soundtrack of yesterday; we are here to compose the rhythm of tomorrow. In a landscape of echoes, we choose to be the voice.
“By pairing an entirely original 20-track catalogue on Umthandazo with elite live execution, we’re moving beyond the traditional role of a gigging band and firmly embracing our identity as headliners and cultural torchbearers,” said Hadebe.
Sidumisile Mabena