admin
obvious that there is a deliberate attempt to sabotage the new band to protect of the interests of certain individuals.
How a new band can attract so many critics immediately after their first performance just but confirms the hatred and attempt to nip it in the bud. It’s both unfair and unprofessional.
It has become so clear that some rookie journalists are practising partisan journalism that is clearly one- sided. This view is substantiated by the gross misrepresentation of events which unfolded at the Chitungwiza Aquatic complex on the night of July 12 when Extra Kwazvose was a supporting act to a musical show pitting Jah Prayzah, Suluman Chimbetu and Peter Moyo. It is grossly unjust to suggest that Extra Kwazvose gave an unconvincing show.
Yes, they had their own shortcomings on the night but the general view is that the positives overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives. What boggles the mind is how certain people have monotonously dwelt on the challenges of the band without considering their effort. This kind of negative analysis has the effect of killing the confidence of the band and consequently public confidence in their work.
According to the band leaders, the birth of Extra Kwazvose was not a sudden surge of directionless ambition but a well thought out venture meant to fulfil lifetime goals at the same time creating employment.
Having attended the show I will chronicle below facts that outline why I believe Extra Kwazvose passed their apprenticeship on Saturday at the same time stamping their authority as a new force on the musical scene that deserves respect and equal attention.
They did this in grand style:
1) For a rookie band to be spared empty beer bottles and cans on stage during a debut performance especially as fans couldn’t wait any longer for the arrival of crowd favourite Jah Prayzah speaks volumes of their reception and acceptance. In a crowd evidently dominated by critics and sceptical fans, one would have expected pitiful humiliation for Extra Kwazvose. But, alas, the crowd remained composed evidently enjoying the music from the so-called Rebels. Even the boo boys kept their cool.
2) For a new band to play all songs from their own compositions and not even a copyright as expected by the crowd speaks volumes of their depth. While Sulumani, Peter Moyo and Dembo boys had the aid of songs from their late fathers to complement their acts, Extra Kwazvose had no such luxury without an archive from which to borrow even a hymn. Being a complete set of their former band Orchestra Mberikwazvo, they had the temptation to borrow one or two songs from Macheso but to their credit they stuck to their stuff except for one or two chants from Jonasi which resembled Macheso’s acts.
3) Despite the obvious pressure of facing revellers for the first time as lead vocalists, Jonasi Kasamba and Franco maintained their cool and confidence. One would mistake them for seasoned musicians. While the former honed his career as a chanter and the later as a dancer, they gave a well-choreographed act that surprised even themselves. Slomo had surely brought his dancing shoes while Jonasi was a ball of energy all night through.
4) Despite their overpublicizsd fallout with their former boss Alick Macheso, Extra Kwazvose did not in any way mention anything about Orchestra Mberikwazvo on stage, a show of professional conduct. They obviously did not want to divert attention and the tactic worked as it helped them give a polished act that endeared them with the near full Aquatic auditorium.
5) I had an impromptu chat with Jazz 105 proprietor Mkoma Josh, a respected music promoter and he gave a glowing recommendation of the guys. He believes the guys have a bright future if they perfect their act.
6) While we appreciate that journalists are the watchdog of the music industry, it must be accepted that they are sometimes influenced by their personal opinion which may not be a true reflection of reality.
While constructive criticism is healthy, it is unfortunate if it is one-sided and without anyone fighting in their corner, Extra Kwazvose will suffer stillbirth. Fortunately, for them they claim to have many friends who are offering help both in cash and kind.
What the guys probably need to do is to take time to perfect their act while at the same time engaging seasoned musicians for live shows until they are able to stand on their own.
Wish you the best Extra Kwazvose. We are fully behind you.
Online Reporter