Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo music lovers are in for a treat this weekend as veteran musician and guitarist Jeys Marabini is ready to give fans a live experience of his latest album, “Umjolo”.
Supported by Rhumba musician Mcebisi Mlilo of Amathonga Amahle, who is riding high on his 2024 offering Soft Life, the performance at Palace Hotel on Friday evening marks Marabini’s first show at the venue that has become home to many local artistes.
“It’ll be my first time performing there, and I’m looking forward to introducing my music to a whole new audience. This is a time for fans to feel the live essence of the album. We’ve rehearsed hard, and it shows that with age, you mature as an artiste,” Jeys said.
The 10-track album is a narrative of Marabini’s journey, emotions, and cultural roots. It features songs, Ngezama Lobolo, Themba Lami Likuwe, Yini Lo Mona, Mazwane, Thul’ulalele, Nomakanjan, Inkemenkeme, Ulal’ephenduka, We Mnano Muntu, and the title track Umjolo.
To achieve a unique sound, Marabini recorded the album across four studios: Loud Records, Just Percy Studios, Elephant Head Studios, and P3 Studios.
“Umjolo is a celebration of life. It blends my experiences, love, unity, peace, and respect for culture. Each track takes listeners on a journey through life’s highs and lows, touching on themes like loyalty, hope, disappointment, and faith,” he said.
Marabini said Umjolo marks a departure from his previous work, both in sound and vocal delivery. Each track will be accompanied by visuals directed by filmmaker Matesu Dube, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the album.
The project brought together a talented roster of young creatives, including Mzoe 7, Smallz, Erustus Nleya, Just Percy, Obey Mudiwa, and instrumentalists such as Master H (bass), Thomas Madurure (lead guitar), Oktopas (keys), Simba (trumpet), and Benjamin (saxophone), alongside backing vocalists Brian Awa, Khulekani, and Gazi Elimnyama.
“I’m overflowing with gratitude for everyone who contributed to this album. From late-night jam sessions to shared laughter, we created memories that I will always treasure,” Marabini said.
The making of the album was not without challenges. In a previous interview, Marabini admitted to some tense moments with his younger collaborators.
“Sometimes we’d stop mid-song because I couldn’t sing what they wanted. My producer would say, ‘This is what we are doing, no two ways about it.’ In the end, I enjoyed the process, and the quality of the album reflects that.”
Seven years after his last album, Marabini believes Umjolo reflects his growth and maturity as an artist.
“This is my 10th album, and I take my time to ensure every track meets my standards. I never release anything I’m not satisfied with. This time, I’ve incorporated brass instruments and created songs that appeal to young listeners, middle-aged fans, and older audiences alike,” he explained. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
