Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
FOR gifted bassist and singer, Taurai Mwanyisa, life has always played out like the unpredictable rhythm of a rollercoaster.
It has been necessitated by twists and turns, trials and tribulations.
He is back in the fold with a new album, “Kunaka Ndiripo”. The Chipinge-born and South Africa–based musician has proved once again that resilience and talent make an unbeatable duet.
The six-track project, backed by his group, Mutape Express, marks a triumphant return for Mwanyisa, who last performed in Mutare exactly a year ago alongside the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Manicaland Band.
It was a deeply emotional moment that reminded the former inmate how far he had come from prison stages to professional studios, from a life interrupted to a destiny rediscovered. Recorded and produced at Macts Studios by Dumisani Sibanda, the new album features Mwanyisa on bass, while longtime friends, Renias Dhemba and Lancelot Mavhakanza command the lead guitar and sub-rhythms, respectively.
Dhemba also contributes backing vocals and plays the main rhythm guitar on the album, creating a layered sonic landscape that is both soulful and sharp.
Reflecting on the album’s significance, Mwanyisa told The Weekender from his South African base that the comeback album is a milestone achievement.
“I am grateful for the support I have been getting. I believe the new album will propel me to dizzy heights. This production is one of the best achievements of my career, and I want to thank everyone who has stood by me through all seasons of life. The project is now on the streets, and I aim to popularise it through a series of live shows especially this December when I will be in Zimunya (Mutare). It has been a beautiful journey laden with trials and tribulations, but I am grateful that I have emerged stronger,” said Mwanyisa.
His years behind bars reshaped him, not by breaking him, but refining him.
During his incarceration, Mwanyisa spent most of his time performing with the ZPCS Manicaland Band, quickly becoming a crowd favourite and symbol of transformation.
Today, he leads a new life in South Africa, working as a plumber by day and chasing musical heights by night. The album’s title track “Kunaka Ndiripo” is an emotional powerhouse that tackles the painful reality of pretenders and exploitative people.
Mwanyisa’s lyrics warn listeners to be vigilant of those who feign love while taking advantage of others.
His delivery is both tender and assertive, making the message land with clarity. The guitar arrangement on this track is particularly evocative, as it possesses gentle melodic lines as the lead guitar intertwine with Mwanyisa’s steady bass, creating a soulful yet cautionary atmosphere.
There is a song called “Rumbai” — a rhythmic track that celebrates perseverance.
The song rides on playful guitar strokes and groove that lifts the spirit, while Musavasiye is one of the more reflective songs on the album.
It is a plea for unity, understanding and not abandoning those who need us most. The guitars take on a softer, melodic approach, with Dhemba’s rhythm guitar providing a warm cushion for Mwanyisa’s expressive voice. And then there is a song, “Handina Simba” (I am not strong alone).
The silky-voiced artiste calls for divine intervention, acknowledging his weakness and seeking God’s guidance for himself and his family. The bassline is subdued, almost trembling with sincerity, while the harmonies create a spiritual aura. The guitar arrangement gently rises and falls, echoing the emotional surrender in the lyrics, making it one of the standout moments of the album.
On the song, “Tsamba”, Mwanyisa sings with a storyteller’s conviction, as though delivering a long-overdue message. The interplay between lead and rhythm guitar is crisp and assertive, complementing the tone of revelation and honesty.
A beautiful love song anchored in loyalty, “Moyo Wangu” sees Mwanyisa promising unwavering dedication to his family. His vocals are soft yet confident, reflecting emotional steadiness. The guitar work is warm and lyrical, giving the song a comforting and timeless feel.
Across the album, Mwanyisa’s bass guitar serves as the heartbeat. It is steady, emotive, and intentional. His playing is restrained where necessary and bold where appropriate, showcasing a seasoned understanding of balance. The guitar arrangement, enriched by Dhemba and Mavhakanza, weaves together clean melodic lines, rhythmic depth, and harmonic cohesion.
Vocally, Mwanyisa displays impressive growth. His voice carries emotional weight, gliding effortlessly from softness to intensity, allowing each lyric to resonate deeply with listeners.
With “Kunaka Ndiripo”, the gifted lyricist stands tall once more, stronger, wiser, and ready for yet another climb on life’s rollercoaster.
Mwanyisa boasts of previous albums such as “Mavambo” (2020), “Gadziriso” (2022) and “Hakuna Anogerwa Asipo” (2023).
