Danayi Murapa - Munerudo (2010)

The Zimbabwean gospel music scene is awash with talent and i have always stated that fact time and again. Last year i was tuned in to one of the Zim internet radio stations and heard a song that simply blew me away. It prompted me to look for it and just my luck because i found it and at the same time discovered a brilliant artist at that. The name 'Danayi Murapa' may not ring a bell to most of you but let that not deter you from taking a listen to what she has to offer.

The intro is beautiful with lovely instrumentation as well as the singing. It is an invitation for everyone to call on to the Lord through all situations. I wish it was a longer into though, being only a minute. Ndichengetei is a mellow gospel groove with that distinct gospel sound we have come to expect over the years. The formula simply works and it will sit well with many a gospel fan or music fan in general. She asks for God's guidance in this journey of life as there are many hurdles along the way. Munerudo, the title track is stuff legends are made of. This is the song that prompted me to try and find out who Danayi Murapa is. Sabastian Magacha makes an appearance on this beautiful piece and the 2 artists complement each other with such conviction. Mukoma Saba vanomira mira hama dzangu! To tell you the truth i have no idea why this song has not yet made the charts in Zimbabwe because it is excellent. I like how it is listenable across all ages at the same time carrying a relevant message. This is as good as gospel music gets! I noted that the final album version is slightly different from the initial version that circulated a few months back. It still sounds great regardless.

Another lovely cut from this album is Zorora featuring Tembalami. This is pure 'feel good' gospel music and i found myself singing along and dancing. Munerudo is still my favourite but Zorora is a close second. The artists sing of God's goodness and his deliverance from those tiresome tribulations. Well done to Tembalami, i would like to hear what his music sounds like. This one is joining Munerudo on my iPod, no questions asked. Upon giving this album a listen one thing stood out, the uniform quality from start to finish. Kudos to you Danayi, this is top notch stuff. It was great to listen and connect with the effort put into this album. The other 2 songs, Ndapererwa featuring the very beautiful Petronella Gobvu and Zarura are quite good. Danayi's voice is unique and she uses it well, she knows her vocal abilities which is essential for success as an artist.

The only downside to this album for me was the fact that of the 7 tracks, one is a minute long intro and another an instrumental which leaves it down to 5 songs. I am not a fan of albums that are either too short or too long. Next time i would love to hear 8-12 tracks, i really think that is something artists need to consider for their fans and in Danayi's case she has already proved she can be versatile so why not give us more? All in all this album is brilliant, a must hear especially for those inclined to gospel music. Recommended if you are into artists like Sabastian Magacha, Taurai Gorden Nzira and Bethan Pasinawako. Please do not hesitate to get a copy!


You can buy the album here:
http://indiekazoo.com/vangodzatunes/778

Cover Art - 7/10 (beautiful)
Music - 7/10
Technical Sound - 7.5/10
'I Like' Factor - 8/10 (really love her work)

Sabastian Magacha - Ndinokutendai (2009)

The Zimbabwe gospel scene is as exciting as ever with the rise of the younger gospel artists. The genre has undergone a lot of changes but still continues to excite and holds its place in popularity. The name Sabastian Magacha may ring a bell to a few but be assured the young man is a born star. Full of talent and blessed with a powerful voice, this is a name we will remember for a long time. His 2007 album Shekinah Glory shot Sabastian to fame with the massive hit, Tinomudana. In 2009 he is back with Ndinokutendai.

I had the pleasure of hearing the title track early on in the year courtesy of a friend and it was the first time i had ever heard of Sabastian Magacha. His brand of gospel music wowed me on the spot and have been trying to source his music ever since. Ndinokutendai is an uplifting number about thanking God for all he has done especially when people try to pull you down. The production on this song is nothing short of impressive and definitely puts Sabastian on a different level. I really like the way these youthful guys are making the music less predictable. Ndoenda Mberi is equally as enjoyable and it is a song about persistence. He sings about kusadzokera shure (not giving up/going back). I really enjoy the fact that he sings with such conviction and he is not the usual 'recycle-the-most-popular-bible-verse-i-know' type of Zimbabwean gospel artist.

Nemunamato sounds a bit like a reggae song (with a Zimbabwean twist of course!). I think this song relates to so many Zimbabweans who pray everyday for better opportunities. It is a song of encouragement that shows how the Zimbabwean population largely turns to religion for answers. Shaura proclaims God's glory and is a testimony of what God does in our lives. It is a slow, mellow song which touches your heart upon listening. The singing was superb. The back up singers on this track did an excellent job that deserves an applause at the very least. I like the lyrics and they struck a chord with me about how we as people hardly ever thank God but find ourselves complaining a whole lot. Nyarara is also another great track with amazing singing.

Also watch out for Anouya and Ngiaykubonga. Sabastian Magacha is the most exciting gospel prospect yet and i have no doubts about that. If he keeps producing such good music he is definitely set for a very bright and prosperous career. Of those who have already heard his stuff, you can testify. If you like a good word of God, this gem of an album will not disappoint. Recommended if you like artists like Fungisai, Taurai Gorden Nzira, Bethan Pasinawako, Alexio Kawara, Kudzai Nyakudya. Simply breathtaking!

Cover Art - 6/10
Music - 8/10
Technical Sound - 7/10
'I Like Factor' - 8/10