Klio Manyowa releases new album

Arts Correspondent
AFRO-JAZZ musician Klio Manyowa, who was one of the pioneering artistes at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton is back following the release of his new album titled “This Is It”. The Glen Norah-based crooner (43), said the title of the album was inpsired by his fans.He composed the eight songs with the assistance of his daughter Amanda, who was the 2012 Star Brite winner in the singing category.
Amanda penned the tracks “Muromo Unesimba”, “Zuva Remoyo” and “Ndajaira Iwe” (Instrumental), which her dad polished and arranged.

Manyowa brings in his Christian values and beliefs in the opening track, “Muromo Unesimba”, which urges people not to lose hope in whatever they do.

“Ndajaira Iwe” is a romantic song in which a lover declares undivided love while “Zuva Remoyo” is a touching song that laments the loss of a loved one.

The heartaches that come with cheating in a relationship make up the gist of the song “You Broke My Heart”, while “Hupenyu Hwakasiyana”, “Mai Vevana”, “Zvakavanzika” and the last track, “Ndajaira Iwe” (Instrumental) also appeal to the ear in their own special ways.

The album was recorded at little known Turning Point Studios in Harare. In 2005, Manyowa released his first gospel album titled “Ishe Ndopfugama” whose title track announced his arrival on the mainstream music scene.

He later took part in the Chibuku Road to Fame competitions in which he sailed through to the national finals.
Manyowa then recorded another album “Rotinhira Shoko” which he says did not see the light of day. He is currently re-working on the album.

Manyowa also released a single called “Musi Ndakuona” which was mastered in the United Kingdom.
“I grew up listening to the Pied Pipers and the Bhundu Boys so naturally these had an influence on my music career. I then decided to change from gospel to a fusion of reggae and Afro-jazz, he said.