adminTawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Youthful Jazz group Too Open, which was hit by squabbles towards the end of last year, could be on its way back to active showbiz following resolutions made by the warring members recently. The members disagreed on the time to record their album with some feeling they needed to get new stuff on the market urgently.
The group is co-owned by Brian Nhanhanga (lead guitar), Owen Shamu (bass), Lloyd Chidikano (drums and vocals).
Sources close to the three said Nhanhanga and Shamu wanted to get into the studio last year.
Chidikano had other views and the differences threatened to tear the group apart.
“They were almost close to the split and that explains why their shows were not doing well for the better part of last year,” said the source.
He added that they spent the better part of last year disputing about the issue.
Yesterday one of the core leaders Nhanhanga said though conflicts has rocked the group they have finally settled.
“We had our difference in terms of recording last year but we managed to solve them and started a new thing altogether,” said Nhanhanga.
He said they have finally agreed on getting into the studio end of this month.
“We have decided to get into the studio end of this month because we feel our fans need something new,” he said.
The band, which originated from Mutare plays mature afro-jazz that it fused with a traditional beat to give it a truly Zimbabwean feel.
They have an album titled Still Alive that was recorded at Shed Studio.
Last Friday the group performed at Jazz 105 sharing stage with Sulumani Chimbetu.
Their performance left lasting memories to the fans. Josh Hozheri owner of Jazz 105 said he was disturbed by the conflicts of the group.
“They have a bright future. I have been working with them for a long time now but these conflicts are not health for them and last year promoters could not give them shows because of that,” said Hozheri.
He said he was happy that the group has resolved to work amicably.
Online Reporter