Nsaku, Mlaka join in New Year fun
Charles Nsaku has risen from a turbulent year to give fun-seekers in Malawi’s central and southern regions’ a happy send-off to a bad year.
The Ali Ku Town Sounds Band founding leader will Friday night perform at Costen Mapemba’s Club 007 on Chiradzulu-Blantyre Road alongside his brother Davie, former Zembani bandmate Mlaka Maliro, funky rookie of the moment Katerele Ching’oma and Evison Matafale’s sibling Tozer Kapito and the Reggae Boys.
According to the Napolo energetic reggae star, the crew will on Saturday hold a joint show at Arnold Guest House in Dwangwa, Nkhotakota, before shifting to The Warehouse Cultural Centre in Blantyre on Sunday.
Looking backwards, he calls 2011 a bad year not because it was blighted by meandering queues for fuels, drinks and medical drugs. Neither is he referring to the rocketing cost of living which has left Malawians with very little to save for entertainment shows.
“It was only a good year because we are still alive and strong; but as a musician, I had several crises that made me start live shows rather too late. I had a daunting task setting up a new-look band because every player of instrument wanted to make a killing when I approached them. As a result, I recruited new names which will come of age next year,” said Nsaku.
He is mulling over a circuit of shows in January when most names that matter on the entertainment scene go on holiday. The high jive month will also mark the release of his 11th album to be recorded at Ralph Records in Blantyre and Kendy in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Over and above, Nsaku hopes to cement his relationship with his new promoter, Arnold Sanudi who owns Zinenani Rest House at Kachere in Blantyre.
The promoter says he is only happy to take part in restoring the big name and immense talent synonymous with the Ali Kutauni kingmaker.
“All is good with me and my business if I help Charles return to his old ways or become even better. I am in this to help the artist,” Sanudi said.
Equally upbeat is Muhanya, a Dikamaoko Arts member who stars in the afro-jazzy Nthano Zanga album.
“I can’t expect a greater start than performing alongside Nsaku and Mlaka. People should expect a great reward for their money and a number of songs earmarked for the album due March next year,” said Muhanya, born Peter Chaponda.
