Seven i r a b m u h c a la l K e D l a r t s e bi Orch o r i a N l e e Vq NO 003
R-KaDyING VERSATILITY OUTSTAN
isite style u q x e ’s la o B a Nin double bass e th s k c lu p i r u r Shiro Ka h Kareyce it w s d n u o s n ia n Cameroo
ag.com
cravemusicm
NG I R E V O C S I D
a NGin OT O
KShs. 250 | TShs. 5,000 | UShs. 7,000
Rhythm is Life
] c i s u [m
SONY ERICSSON EXPERIA X8 With a 600MHZ CPU, a 3” 16M-color TFT capacitive touchscreen and a 3-megapixel fixed focus camera this phone is aimed at the masses. p31
Playlist ISSUE NO 3
JULY — SEPTEMBER 2010
Highlights CLASSICAL Seeing Double
After a few drinks you’d be forgiven for thinking that the double bass is a big violin. But not for Shiro Karuri.
54
16 CONTEMPORARY
ARTIST INDEX ABBA 9 Abura, Achieng 46 Aceda, Dan 46 Aerosmith 9 ALEMBA 49 Aliwa 7 Antwi, Kojo 6 Atlas, Natacha 7 Ave, Swangz 7 Awadi, Didier 7 AY 11 ba, Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni 7 Band, Kachumbari Seven 47 Band, Villager’s 46 Beatles 47 Beyonce 6 Chameleone, Jose 7 Chicago 9 Chipmunk 6 Cissoko, Ba 7 Club, Culture Musical 7 Dee, Lady Jay 11 Dela 46 Dikonge, Henry 11 DJ SADIC 49 Estelle 6 Fotso, Kareyce 4 Gordon, Denise 11 HHP 6 Jay, Professor 11 Jay-Z 6 JULIANI 49 Kante, Mory 11
Kanza, Lokua 24 Karuri, Shiro 3 Keita, Salif 24 Kidjo, Anjelique 35 Kidum 11 Kiwuwa 7 K’Naan 6 Maal, Baaba 11, 47 M.I. 6 Mtukudzi, Oliver 11 Music, Jagwa 7 Nameless 11 Naore, Dobet 24 Ndogo, Nyota 7 N’Dour, Yousour 11 Nola, Nick 7 Ogot, Nina 3 Owiyo, Suzanna 11 P-Square 6 Rae, Corinne Bailey 6 Rascal, Dizzee 6 Redsan 11 Sade 6 Seck, Mansoor 47 Sembera 7 Shammah 11 Sol, Sauti 46 Thandiswa 7 Thiong’o, Jemimah 11 Wahome, Esther 11 Wahu 11 Washington 7 Wine, Bobby 11
Discovering Nina Ogot
For many people, music is the kind of hobby you enjoy in the evening after a hard day’s work. But for Nina Ogot music is a vocation that led her to record an eight track album
22
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
03
Playlist ISSUE NO 3
p28
Highlights
JULY — SEPTEMBER 2010
Regulars 6
News
8
Power Playa
Round up of music news
The Business of Music and Entertainment in East Africa
14 StylePhile
Hot Sizzling Celebrity Fashion
22 Skratch
Married to the turntables
26 Gadgets Galore Apple’s iPhone and iPad
40 Club Scene
Laikiana, Club Afrique, Havana
CRAVE CARAT
40 l
Spa Sexy
Spas, Steams, and oxygen. All you want in a day with Christine at Seraph Spa.
46 CD Reviews
Dela, Kachumbari Seven
50 Fashion Hit List Keeping warm
56 Event Pictorial St. John’s Passion, Don Carlos Vqee and Dhahabu
TRADITIONAL
34 l 04
Kareyce Fotso
With her soulful voice and powerful stage performance Kareyce is an unlikely Cameroonia star musician
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
26
The First Note
A Referendum Hit Single
W
[music]
hy would we draft a political editorial in a music magazine? Because we care and because we can. It’s all about the constitution now, we just cannot help it. So, what’s your vote? While the answer remains to be seen on the 4th of
August, we are going to take matters in our hands and help nudge you in the right direction;
Kenya Kenon Court, Kileleshwa P O Box 20319 00100 Nairobi 020 202 59 77 .tel info@cravemusicmag.com .email Publisher: Music Gallery Limited
whatever that may be. Just take a stand and vote for it – your future depends on it. So what’s in contention? What’s in it for you? A matter of life and death is the abortion issue. Shouldn’t we let the women in the medical profession handle this matter? Just a thought. What about the Kadhi’s courts, isn’t it for the Muslims to tackle? The religion of Islam will continue to prevail whether or not we include this chapter in our constitution. We’ve had Kadhi’s courts since our country’s independence, how did it affect your life? Perhaps a matter of great concern is the issue of land ownership. Unfortunately, this is a ticking time-bomb and has to be addressed accordingly. We need to borrow a leaf from Indonesia and Botswana where land is leased and not bought by individuals. All land is community property. Just like the ocean, lakes and rivers, land should not belong to somebody but to the entire community. As a democracy, we are all entitled to our opinions. The wide disparities in level of education and traditional backgrounds provide us with a host of them; some ridiculously outrageous. Whatever your
Editor: Mufu Ndosi mufu@cravemusicmag.com Art Direction & Design: Charbel Munhe charbel@cravemusicmag.com Stylist: Trish Kim trish@cravemusicmag.com Sales and Advertising: Arthur Maleche arthur@cravemusicmag.com Contributors: Mufu Ndosi, Alenga Bouyo, John Murray, Ana Letik, Patrick Wameyo, Bret Piontek
stand is, be courageous enough to respect those that do not share your point of view. So where do we go from here? We suggest a visit with our Power Playa, producer Robert RKay Kamanzi (page 10). He’s the man to hook us up with a referendum hit single! And it will be a hit, because everything he touches turns to gold. Others in this issue are Nina Ogot (cover story), who is turning her hobby into a profession; Shiro Karuri, one of the few ladies taking on
Photographers: Paul Munene, Peter Cacah, Njagi Japheth Production Manager: Charbel Munhe charbel@cravemusicmag.com
Bass; Kareyce Fotso, who gives us a taste of Cameroon; and female deejay instructor, DJ Moe. It’s spicy spa sexiness with our carat Sylvia Kaimuri. Plus, our Fashion HitList pages will definitely keep things heated up this cold season. So get flipping. We know you crave it! Peace. crew
ON THE COVER NINA OGOT Photographed by PHOTO VILLAGE Styling by TRISH KIM Hair and Make-up by NINA OGOT Clothes NINA’S OWN
© Music Gallery Limited 2010. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Music Gallery Limited is registered in Kenya. All information contained in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Music Gallery cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Music Gallery a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazines. Any material you submit is sent at your risk and although every care is taken, neither Music Gallery nor its employees, agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
05
NEWS WHAT’S HAPPENED. WHAT’S HAPPENING. words The Svengali
Who Will Win?
BET Awards 2010 Nominations Kojo Antwi, Chipmunk, Dizzee Rascal, Estelle, Hip Hop Pantsula are some of the BET 2010 nominees
T
he nominees for the 2010 Black Entertainment Television Awards have been announced. South African hiphop star HHP, whose real name is Jabulani Tsambo, is among various African artists in the Best International Act category. Canadian-Somali, K’Naan of Waving Flag is also nominated in this category.
06
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
HHP and K’Naan are up against Kojo Antwi (Ghana), Chipmunk (UK), Dizzee Rascal (UK), Estelle (UK), M.I. (Nigeria), P-Square (Nigeria), Corinne Bailey Rae (UK) and Sade (UK). Jay-Z has scored the most nominations, five, some of them in the same category as his wife, Beyonce. Jamie Foxx will host the ceremony in July.
THE SCOUT MOVEMENT
Scouting is an international education al movement for youn g people based on values . Its voluntary, non-poli tical, independent and it involves a growing number of you ng peopleboys and girls without distinction of origin, race, gend er, creed or ethnic/tribal backgrou nd in accordance with the purpose, principles and method as concei ved by the Founder. The scouting movement was founded by Robe rt BadenPowell in 1907.
Endorsement?
NICK NOLA: FACE OF UGPULSE
Y
oung Ugandan RnB artist Nick Nola has released his new single I Love the Way after a year long hiatus. Nola, who signed up to be the face of the Ugandan based entertainment website, UGPulse, has been in studio recording with top producers such as Swangz Ave, Washington, Kiwuwa and Good Enuff Studios. The artist and UGPulse decided to package the new material into an album to be released later this year. Nick Nola has featured in a few collabos such as Aliwa and Sembera. Asked whether producing albums works for a market such as Uganda, UGPluse’s Peter Kigonya says, “At the end of the day, we are trying to put out a quality product…both the music as well as Nick Nola as an artist or a brand. And we feel the best way we can do this effectively, is by releasing a top quality album. Whether the album sells profitably as a unit is another story. But we’ll definitely, enormously appreciate all those that will go out to buy it because we are putting a lot of effort into it.” SOURCE: UGPULSE
Are you ready?
Sauti za Busara 2011
Calling on all African Music Groups to participate in next year’s Sauti za Busara
I
s your music 100% live? Is your music connected to Africa? Are you interested to perform next February in East Africa? If you can answer yes, yes, yes then follow this link http://www.busaramusic. org/callforartists/index.php Sauti za Busara music festival brings people together in celebration. Every February Stone Town is alive to the sounds of African music. During five days and nights the main stage showcases twenty groups from Tanzania and another twenty from different parts of the Continent and diaspora. 100% live - no playback! Other festival highlights include the carnival street parade, Busara Xtra fringe activities, professional meetings and workshops. In past years, over 280 groups have performed, including Jose Chameleone, Samba Mapangala & Orchestra Virunga, Didier Awadi, Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni ba, Thandiswa, Jagwa Music, Ba Cissoko, Nyota Ndogo, Natacha Atlas,
Culture Musical Club and more Immensely popular with East Africans as well as visitors to the region, Sauti za Busara has firmly established itself as an unmissable event on the African cultural calendar and “the friendliest festival on Planet Earth.” according to the Tanzanian newspaper Daily News. APPLYING IS EASY Your group is only able to be considered if we have received a completed application form and materials from you by 31 July 2010. The selection committee meets at the beginning of August to decide the programme and line up for the next Festival. All applicants will be notified during September. For Festival performers we usually pay artists fees and local expenses in Zanzibar, including travel, visa, accommodation, food and incidentals. For headline artists from outside the region we may also help you find travel sponsors.
pirate list
What we’re listening to this season?
1. Party to Damascus
Wyclef ft. Missy Elliot
2. My Block Tupac
3. Kaza Mwendo
Ngashville ft. Daddy Owen and Dunco
4. Roger That
Young Money
5. Anita
Matonya ft. Lady Jaydee
6. Nikusaidie Aje?
Professor Jay ft. Ferooz
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
07
inbox
We want to hear from you. Send your letters to editor@cravemusicmag.com and stand a chance to win a shopping voucher courtesy of Silverbird.
Your emails, tweets and letters
WHY PENTAMONY ARE CREATIVE MUSICIANS I heard of Pentamony about a year ago and thought it was a quintet singing acapella music, so it was refreshing to read that it is actually a trio of instrumentalists performing afro acoustic music. After learning that they use orchestral instruments, I made a point to watch them in concert at Goethe Institut’s free Muziki wa Kenya concert. And I was not disappointed, they really do think outside the box. Thanks, crave [music] for the feature PAUL NDUNG’U, NAIROBI
A BAG OF TIPS I have always wanted to learn a music instrument as a hobby. Top on the list was the acoustic guitar. I love the sound and the fact that I could carry it around. The article on Buying an Acoustic Guitar motivated me to walk into a music shop and get myself a fine, yet affordable guitar. I know we have access to loads of information on the internet but it was not until I read it in Crave [music] after the Pentamony feature that I got psyched up. Thanks for the tips! PHILIP OKUMU, NAIROBI
LETTER a Silvebird shopping voucher STAR ★ Mild ly amusing? Win Vaguely literate?
the way all is heaven sent! I love Crave [music] magazine ed in one read. these genres are featur pop and un, hip hop, contemporary ion fus afro to en I list ut it in this abo g din rea sic. Before til recently, classical mu made any ans a that traditional musici magazine, I had no ide international impact. our bortourist attraction within I thought they were a ture even in fea e rar a are ans sici mu ders, since traditional our village these days. , actually born and raised in the city But Anyanga, who was oversees. and bi iro Na in ms ying dru makes a living out of pla e. tur cul sic our traditional mu We should be proud of BASA
DAN MWANGOLA, MOM
WAY TO GO, AVRIL! Thanks for interviewing Avril. I always thought she would pursue a solo path but after reading how many artists she has collaborated with, perhaps it is better that she continued as a collaborating artist. It was good to read that she is a Design student at University of Nairobi, although she did not mention which field she was studying. It would be nice to see her creative work in the future. And if it’s as sexy as she looks and sounds, well, bring it on, girl! GRATIUS MBALU, DAR-ES-SALAAM
I CHOOSE BRASS After reading through you’re the first issue of crave [music] I couldn’t wait for the second. The Blowing her own Trumpet story on Christine Kamau was motivational. I always liked brass instruments but never got to learn any because they are too ‘manly’, but Christine shows me that I can go ahead and take up the trombone and have fun making music. I just hope it’s not too late to start. CAROLINE BUYANZI, NAKURU
08
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
cravemusicmag.com
Fun Facts GET ENTERTAINED AND KNOWLEDGEABLE ▶▶▶
T
o win a gold disc, an album needs to sell 100,000 copies in Britain, and 500,000 in the United States.
Elton John’s original name is
Reginald Kenneth Dwight
T
he frontman of the band Chicago met the same fate as Johnny Ace by shooting and killing himself in a game of Russian Roulette in 1978. His last words were, ‘Don’t worry, it’s not loaded.’
T A
n album called ’’The Wit and Wisdom of Ronald Reagan’’ had been released by Stiff Records. The entire disc contained 40 minutes of silence.
he LP (long-playing) record was invented by Paul Goldmark in 1948. The LP is not dead yet: more than 10 million LPs are sold every year.
T O
he longest hymn is Hora novissima tempora pessima sunt; vigilemus by Bernard of Cluny, which is 2,966 lines long. nly one person walked with Mozart’s coffin from the church to the cemetery where Mozart was buried in an unmarked pauper’s grave.
I A
n 1978, Sweden’s most profitable export was the band ABBA. Car maker Volvo was number two.
erosmith singer Steven Tyler once strode all along a passenger plane naked since a band member had bet otherwise. It took some time for the flummoxed stewardesses to bring things back to normalcy.
A
t only four lines long, the Japanese national anthem is the shortest national anthem. The longest is the Greek national anthem at 158 verses long.
H
ungarian musician Franz Liszt received so many requests for locks of his hair that he bought a dog and snipped off patches of fur to send to admirers.
T
chaikovsky suffered from many mental breakdowns and neuroses. He believed that his head would fall off, so when conducting an orchestra he would hold his chin with his left hand.
T
he world’s shortest opera is Milhaud’s The Deliverance of Theseus, which was first performed in 1928 and is only 7 minutes 27 seconds long.
010
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Power Playa
Power Playa
THE BUSINESS OF MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
Robert ‘R-Kay’ Kamanzi Setting the Standards in Music Production words MUFU NDOSI
O
UR MUSIC INDUSTRY WOULD BE at a loss without singer - songwriter - sound engineer - music producer - record label owner and entrepreneur, Robert Kamanzi. With over 60 albums
and hundreds of songs under his belt, several Groove, Kisima and CHAT awards, and the British Council’s International Young Music Entrepreneur award, RKay is without a doubt ranked as the most versatile producer in the region. Crave [music] brings you the man behind the music. Fleeing war from his native country, Burundi in 1993, Kamanzi’s sole ambition was clear, he says, “At that time I just wanted to save my life.” Little did he know that seventeen years later, the refugee who started off in a strange country as a church chorister and worship leader, would be living a much bigger dream that could only be realized by the guy upstairs.
The Awakening
Born of a father who was initially the lead singer of a music band touring the East African region, Kamanzi’s fate was pretty much sealed. “I knew I was going to do music,” he says, albeit against his father’s wishes. The latter had quit music to become a bank manager believing it was a more reliable source of income. And so it happened, in 1998, the music group Shammah was formed and a producer was born. “I didn’t decide to become a producer,” says Kamanzi, “It just happened. I was writing all the songs and arranging all the music for Shammah and many other groups in church. Soon other people from
elsewhere started coming to look for me to arrange music for them, and do stuff for them. I said why not? They multiplied and multiplied and soon I found myself doing it every day. And that’s how I ended up becoming a producer.” But it was no walk in the park. “I had to work for 5 years to get money to set up here, and you can imagine the discipline it took to raise that kind of capital,” says Kamanzi, whose studio is set up at his residence in Kilimani, a property he owns that is worth millions of shillings. “The first studio I worked in was Next Level Studios. I would say it’s where I really got the experience,” says Kamanzi. “I produced a lot of stuff there.” He then went to Kete Bul to help a friend set up. “So I designed the studio, the equipment and stuff like that. Once they found a producer, I left.” says Kamanzi, who then proceeded to Homeboyz Studios for a year, working on the Coca Cola Star Search group, Sema, before setting up his own stable, Moja Entertainment.
The Music
Most people know of RKay from the music they hear on FM stations. However, much of his music thrives outside the radio. In addition to RnB, zouk and hip hop, Kamanzi also produces country, rock and jazz music. He is comfortable in diverse genres and has worked with artists such as Suzanna Owiyo, Redsan, Nameless, Jemimah Thiong’o, Esther Wahome, AY, Professor Jay, Lady Jay Dee, Wahu, Bobby Wine, Kidum, Denise Gordon and Oliver Mtukudzi, among numerous others. So where does his versatility come from? “I was lucky to be exposed to all kinds of music from an early age,” says Kamanzi, “I wasn’t a big fan of RnB as I was growing up like many other teenagers coz I was exposed to other things. Some of these things have influenced me in one way or the other. And that’s how you get to be different. It’s very important for producers to expose themselves to all kinds of genres of music.” With a musician for a father, Kamanzi was exposed to Yousour N’Dour, Mory Kante, Henry Dikonge, Baaba Maal and others before he was 10. “These were some the finest African artists you ever heard,” he adds. “So when am producing, it will come out in my music, you will hear a bit of all these things.”
The Master
As technical as producers need to be, RKay’s music creation is not clinical.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
011
Image courtesy of iNGOMA Summit
Rkay addressing the crowd during the Ingoma Summit
Every artist gets an individualized assessment before the work begins. And if one does not meet the bar, “I’ll tell them you need to work on this and this and this and this. I would always tell them what to work on. I would not tell you just go. I will elaborate,” says a firm Kamanzi, “I will pin-point where I think they are not ready yet coz they might pay for studio time and waste their money for no reason.” Clearly, working ethics are not to be amiss in his quest either. In a perfect world, Kamanzi’s ideal artist is open-minded and willing to learn and explore, but more importantly, he would have to be, as the guru puts it, truly committed, serious and disciplined. “Discipline in this business is everything. Actually in every business, discipline is everything. In other words, you obey, you keep your time and if you have to go and work on something at home, you better
012
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
do it. Don’t go do other things and come back to the studio when you’re not ready. I like a committed artist. And, of course,” adds Kamanzi, “Talent is everything, coz it makes work much easier.” Having kindly bowed out from awards and accolades this season, Rkay’s next undertaking is to give back to the music industry through the annual Ingoma Music Summit, where artists get to learn and share information. “I am privileged to go abroad and attend these music conferences and learn from the professionals, but not everyone is,” says Kamanzi, “So this year I decided to bring one of these professionals.” For the first summit, which was held in March this year, Ingoma hosted a Copyright and Music Management expert from the UK. All local producers were represented. The workshop, held at the Intercontinental Hotel, turned out to be a huge
success. “Hopefully other people will join in and support us and enable us to avail this information to our industry that is truly, truly in need of this information.”
The Future
For all his devotion to music creativity, Rkay says he may give it all up to do movies. “I think it’s my retirement plan. I see so many needs in that industry and we don’t have people fulfilling these needs. If no one rises up, I’ll end up doing it.” Well, we certainly shouldn’t put it past him. In fact, his first project might as well be a self-titled docu-film, RKAY. But we are not there yet. Robert “Rkay” Kimanzi is yet to achieve his full potential. In the meantime, we will enjoy every beat, every song, and every album as he puts East African music on the global map.
Recording Studio Setup words John B Murray
R
ecording studio setup difficulties begin with the environment. When trying to faithfully reproduce voices and instruments, it is the environment in which the recording takes place that is of fundamental importance. A studio void of excessive competing noise is a primary concern over and above the quality of the recording equipment and software used. One of the most important aspects of any recording studio setup is the necessity to keep all sounds generated within the studio as pure as practical. Because most professional recording studios are confined to a relatively small area, sound-proofing is of particular significance when trying to reduce audio echoes from entering a microphone. If one were to listen to a sound source, such as a TV or radio, positioned within a room from which the carpeting, furniture and acoustic ceiling coating had been removed, the audio would be difficult to understand. The sounds emanating from the speakers would not only enter your ear directly from the source, but the same audio would also bounce off the ceiling, floors and walls, which would then arrive at your ear drum at different times and from different directions. Also, the direct audio would combine with previously emitted sound waves to form new sound waves of varying pitch. This audible confusion is almost eliminated if your recording studio setup uses effective, sound absorbing materials. It is because of the above problems that a professional studio will incorporate special fabrics which are acoustically absorbent but do not reduce or alter the sound frequencies that are produced. When preparing a recording studio setup, some people may suggest using egg cartons, blankets or even cheap foam that is not fire retardant. None of these solutions will have the desired audible effect and may actually be very dangerous. You will certainly not end up with a true representation of the sound that the vocals and instruments should produce. It is best to either invest in specialist products like acoustic tiles and booths or treat your own walls or ceilings with rigid fibre glass or rock wool. Although a studio should incorporate the best recording, mixing, and editing electronics and software that are affordable, when used in combination they will not reach their full potential if the original acoustic signature is not clean. The only way to obtain a set of clean audio tracks is to ensure that an acoustically clear environment is the basis for your recording studio setup.
013
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Seeing Double by MUFU NDOSI
I discovered the double bass in 2007 and began classes almost immediately at the Kenya Conservatoire of Music. photos by PETER CACAH
Classical
What inspired you to learn a musical instrument and when did you start learning the double bass? I started on bass guitar in 2006 and used to play in the Lavington United Church Youth worship team. I knew I had a talent in music and the fact that I was called to play for the Sterling Quality Entertainment Company for their 10th Anniversary. It was challenging because I was still a little inexperienced, and I was the only female in the band, playing the bass, a very male instrument! I discovered the double bass in 2007 and began classes almost immediately under Manasseh Uzele at the Kenya Conservatoire of Music. A year and a half later, I did my first exam, Grade 5 and got a distinction, which I believe was a blessing from God. Many people see the double bass as a masculine instrument due to its enormous size and very low pitch. Why did you choose it above the other orchestral strings? I love deep sounds, and the bass has it. If I was to play a wind instrument, I’d probably go for the Tuba or Double Bassoon.
Does the trumpet reflect any qualities about you? The trumpet is a versatile instrument. Many perceive it as loud and pompous in character, yet it is capable of extremely pleasant cantabile playing… like a coin it has these two sides. I think I lie more on the pleasant side and less on the pompous side! Are you a self-taught bassist and what is your practice schedule like? I had 2 teachers before I went to the Conservatoire because I had no idea about instruments at all. My first teacher is now a lead guitarist at Mavuno Church and the second is a Yo u t h
get started, after that, if one practices, getting ahead is pretty simple. But a lot of practice has to be put in, not less than 2 hours a day! Do you play with a band or orchestra? Name a few highlights. From time to time I have played in a band but currently I play in an orchestra. I am a member of the Kenya Conservatoire of Music Orchestra and also the Nairobi Orchestra. I have played in various weddings. My first time ever to play at a wedding was in 2009 Valentines Day, and I had two weddings on the same day. I have never earned so much money in one day! As a member of an orchestra, you’ve probably explored and performed a wide repertoire of classical music. How do East Africans respond to classical music? Yes, I play with the band at my church and I recently joined Mapinduzi Band. The process has really helped me grow musically. Being in a band means that you just have to up your game so as not to spoil for your band mates. That meant that I had to work hard by practicing everyday. Now my pitching is on point.
Pastor at Parklands Baptist Church. I had a talent for playing by ear, so my teachers found it quite easy to train me. All I needed was proper training on how to handle the instrument. The most important thing is to
What are you studying in college and how do you manage to juggle your practice and performance with your studies? I am in the University of Nairobi doing a diploma in International Studies; a field that requires a lot of reading and research. It is very difficult juggling studies and music but it is possible if one has discipline in time management and if a proper timetable is drawn out. It is not uncommon to find professionals in other fields immersing themselves in musical activities. Music can be such a breath of fresh air that I wonder what other people do if not music! After a tiring week at work or school and the hustle of life, one just goes and plays their instrument, it feels like there is more to life, and I think that’s what keeps people going. Learning a musical instrument can be quite frustrating at times. What challenges have you faced or continue to meet? It is at first. You experience all kinds of challenges. For example for me on the strings, too much plucking causes blisters, bad posture when playing causes severe back aches, straining of some arm muscles causes swelling….and the list goes on and on. Sometimes, to counter these problems, I treat myself to arm massages, or just do body stretches throughout the day.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
015
Classical
What reaction do you receive from your peers concerning your musical venture and what are some of the social benefits you have experienced, if any? Most of my peers are in awe when they see me carry my huge instrument, and ask me whether its possible for them to pick up an instrument. I just tell them anyone can pick up an instrument, but not many stick to it. It requires such a commitment and if you have no love for the instrument, it can be frustrating. I have met many people through playing my instrument and I thank God that I have realized my talent when I am still young.
Shiro performing at Classics at the GoDown concert
Classical
T
he double bass, also called the string bass, upright bass, bass violin or contrabass, is the largest and lowestpitched bowed string instrument in the modern symphony orchestra. The name “double bass” derives from the early use of the instrument to double—an octave lower where possible—the bass part written for the cello. The double bass is a standard member of the string section of the symphony orchestra and smaller string ensembles in Western classical music. In addition, it is used in other genres such as disco, jazz, 1950s-style blues and rock and roll, rockabilly/ psychobilly, traditional country music, bluegrass, and tango. The double bass is typically constructed from several types of wood, including maple for the back, spruce for the top, and ebony for the fingerboard. It is uncertain whether the instrument is a descendant of the viola da gamba or the violin, but it is traditionally aligned with the violin family. While the double bass is nearly identical in construction to other violin family instruments, it also embodies features found in the older viol family. Like many other string instruments, the double bass is played either with a bow (arco) or by plucking the strings (pizzicato). In orchestral repertoire and tango music, both arco and pizzicato are employed. In jazz, pizzicato is the norm, except for some solos and also occasional written parts in modern jazz that call for bowing. In most other genres, such as blues and rockabilly, the bass is plucked. The double bass is a transposing instrument and sounds one octave lower than notated. A transposing instrument is a musical instrument for which written notes are read at a pitch different from concert pitch, which a non-transposing instrument, such as a piano, would play. Playing a written C on a transposing instrument will produce a note other than concert C.
The Double Bass
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
017
StylePhile
Nina Bola
One of Kenya’s Professional Models Affiliation: Finalist and Reality TV star, Tusker Project Fame III What is the most functional fashion item in your closet? My lingerie and jeans. What fashion accessory can’t you go without? My jewellery, especially my Sapphire ring . Ankle boots or knee-length boots? Knee-length boots, love them… Big bags or clutch bags? It depends… for daytime big bags, but for a date or night-time clutch bags, they are practical… Chunky heels or stiletto heels? Chunky heels. How would you dress your date? Classic, hot and sexy and of course, a good perfume. What do you have for the cold season? Stockings, socks, jacket and sweaters… What fashion rules do you live by? I dress appropriately, for the occasion and I can’t mix colors that don’t match nor dress in nightclothes during the day, you know, glitter decorated clothes during the day… Fashion advice? The world of fashion is very volatile. Given a chance, I would love if we go back to some fashion trend of the past such as The Victorian era fashion and maybe the fashion of the hippies - you know! Bell bottom trousers and high platform shoes…afro and so on.
018
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
BUSINESS
This issue
Financial success just like music is a talent developed over time through various ways.
ADVICE ON TALENT & WEALTH MANAGEMENT ▶▶▶
WORDS PATRICK WAMEYO
Music Money Advice on personal finance and wealth management WEBSITE WWW.FINANCIALACADEMY.CO.KE
A
routine question in the lips of fans of any artist is what really makes them wither away into poverty as soon as their singing prowess dries up. Can an artist translate musical success to financial success?
Financial success, like music, is a talent developed through a very strenuous process of self adjudication that creates self awareness and straight good financial manners honed over time. Ironically, financial discipline is not taught in school. It is acquired from the environment by action and observation of what our parents do with money. As you grow up, your idea of money is informed first by your parents, heroes and later peers. Should you be exposed to financially destructive behaviors from these three categories of influencers, you are unlikely to keep and grow cash flowing in from music, whether in large or small quantities. My coach defines cash flow of money coming in as income and going out as expenses. Music has two primary forms of income. Live performance income would be categorized as active income, because you have to sweat for it. Recorded music, which continues to sell many years after one has retired, would be categorized as passive income. This definition of cashflow reminds us that cash flows in from multiple sources just like it goes into multiple outlets called expenses. A good management of the cash flowing out from these
sources is critical for translating it into wealth. Investing converts earned active cash flow to passive cash flow. Artists are large spenders, partly because in this industry, greatness has been confused with spending power. Many artists defy the most basic law of economics - savings equals investment, with impunity. They fund flamboyant images with debt, basically living on income yet to be generated in future - a recipe for self destruction. Indeed, it is in the management of the cash flowing out where great and not so great artists fail to hook up to the realities and powers of natural economics. You are familiar with the depressions of great names like Michael Jackson, Michael Tyson, George Foreman and their subsequent financial failures. Many great men and women representing success and fame in arts have grown from rags to wealth and back to rags. Many more continue down this route everyday by following the money rules they were taught through modeling by parents. In the art scene, financial illiteracy is epidemic. It is passed quickly from one artist to another, transmitted and sustained by low emotional intelligence.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
019
MUSICMONEY
Patrick Wameyo is a Financial Coach and the Executive Director at Financial Academy, a unique academy that teaches adults how to manage their money to create wealth. He’s email address is coach@financialacademy.co.ke
020
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Until an artist is able to free himself or herself from the influence of their parents and peers on what they know about money, doom is a sure destination for over ninety five in a hundred artists. There are five obstacles hidden to us which anybody making income need to unravel in order to become financially literate. We deal with cynicism, the first obstacle in this article. We (all) spend money on six common areas namely, self possessions, relationships, community and cultural obligations, entertainment, health and spirituality and self development. Cynicism pushes you to throw money into
unsustainable image hole that once opened never closes. Financially literate artists invest the cash flow from active sources like live music performance to generate streams of passive income such as would come from recorded music, rent and dividends from studios that they own. They spend the excess cash from the passive incomeand maintain a brand name. Sometimes the right thing to do is the hardest thing to do, but it has
BUSINESS to be done to achieve what you really desire. Take responsibility for your destiny, decide what you really want in your life and go for it with purpose and discipline, even when it is tough. Watch your environment, thoughts and words, they become your actions.
Rhythm is Life
Rhythm is Life
NINA OGOT
“Some of the
challenges I experience is diversifying
DISCOVERING
my music”
A F R O ACOUSTIC AT ITS
BEST
022
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
BY TH E SV E N GALI
f
OR MANY PEOPLE, music is the kind of hobby you enjoy in the evening after a hard day’s work. You might listen to some soul soothing sounds, or you may pick up your guitar and run through some chord progressions. If you are a little serious about this hobby you may even sign up for lessons and put in some daily practice. And if you are very serious, like Nina Ogot, you might even write a few songs and record an eight-track album. After working in the media for three years, Nina thinks it is time to take her professional hobby to the next level. She shares with Crave [music].
023
I was
born, bred and lived in Nairobi. After school, I went to France to study Communications and French. I did one year of professional French then 3 years of Media and Communication. Within that time I wasn’t very happy with the course. I knew I wanted to do something with the media but I felt we were not doing anything practical. So that’s when the music thing was born, while I was still trying to figure out the media. I decided to come home and got a job at Alliance Francaise, lecturing French. After teaching French for about a year I moved to Radio France International where I worked for three years. All this time my music was going on but never really fulltime, it was a professional hobby. Then at some point it just hit me that actually I want to further the music and see how far it can go. Radio was interesting. It was good; like we would go to Burundi every end of the year for training. But to a certain extent I just wanted to be with the people. I felt like I wanted more. I can’t necessarily define what the more is. In the three years since I came back I’ve been searching for something, and I enjoy the things that have been coming in my way: Alliance, Radio France International and I used to do a show called Afrodisia on Citizen. I used to go to the Conservatoire then I stopped. I did it just for six months. Then I started a program with the Theatre Company where I learnt to use yoga for my voice. Yoga taught me that you need to work against the tension. You start working from your spine. Once you relax the spine everything else relaxes, your breathing relaxes, your mind relaxes, everything relaxes and your voice just comes out. Works like magic. Then I read this book by Christine Linkletter, called Freeing the Natural Voice, which teaches the same techniques. I try to do it every day. It’s been the hardest discipline. So finally, my music is starting to define itself. I think it marks that whole progression from when I was in France, to now after I have taught, I have done radio, I have done TV, and discovered that music is what I want to do now. And now I feel free. I feel like now am open and I have allowed myself to just to be. I started writing music a long time ago. I am a pianist but then I picked up the guitar for some rea-
son. My dad had bought a guitar in the 70s; it was at home. I was like, “This guitar here is gathering dust. What the heck, let’s try”. So that’s how my journey with the guitar started. Now I use the guitar and the piano has taken a back seat. So in my music, the guitar became my sound and that’s what I’ve put on the first album. It just happened. In the first album, Ninairobi, I ended up doing almost everything. I wrote the songs and the music for myself, guitar and the backup vocals. One highlight in this album is Rabi, a Christian Congolese song. The friends I had met and the experiences I’d had in France were reflected in this song. It was composed by a friend of a friend. And then there’s Chokoraa, that is also a song I love to sing. It was written by my friend, Sarah Mitaru. She visited me in France and sang me the song. I liked it, so it was handed down to me. When I was in France I met, I discovered so many artists, like Lokua Kanza and Salif Keita, that you’re not exposed to here. Then there is Dobet Naore, from Ivory Coast, who performed at Alliance Francaise about a year and a half ago. Her performance was out of this planet. These are artists who have lots of rich, traditional instrumentation. They are still contemporary but they
are also very original. So I think it is this period, when I was in college, that I discovered these things that have influenced my music. This year I intend to run Dhahabu. It is an audio-visual show. I am trying to tell a very brief story and then join it to music. So it is different; I am mixing the screen with live music. I am using mixed media. My idea is first to keep the music exposed, also to test the music that I want to put in the next album, and to see what songs people are reacting to. I try to give as much quality as possible. For me, quality is giving time to what you do, being committed to it and then practicing - just the simple things that we take for granted. It is still not clear about the locations in which it is going to run. We are still in the process of doing the next album. I don’t know how it works for people who say, ‘Now I’ll just sit here for 3 months and write music’. For me, the song comes when it comes. You might be in a year of writing and another year of nothing. In the first album, eight songs were all I had at that point and now I have so many songs in one year that came from nowhere, so I am ready for the next one. There is definitely more percussion. There is that guitar touch; I
think there will be songs that have more guitars because the first one had only two. There is one I have done with a guy from Tanzania. We arrived at the studio at the same time, and the producer was like, ‘Oh by the way this is Ashimba from Tanzania. He’s a singer and this is his percussionist. Both of you play the guitar, do something!’ So we did a collabo.) Some of the challenges I experience is diversifying my music. Once people put you in that afro box, they think you are all the same, but I have my touch. And for people to give you a chance and see your uniqueness they need to come for the gigs. Another major challenge is distribution. I am trying the net. It is a good alternative, it is cheaper and is easy to access. I like media. That is what I studied. Actually, it is still a passion. So if the opportunity presents itself and the working conditions are suitable, then definitely I would do it, but for now I want to further my music.
024
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Nina during her Dhahabu Concert
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
025
CRAVE [THAT]
The ABCs of Song Structure
THE BRIDGE USUALLY HAS A DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT MELODY, AND LYRICALLY IT SUMS UP OR REVEALS NEW INSIGHT INTO THE THEME OF THE SONG words BRET PIONTEK
I
am certainly not one to try set specifications on how art should be created or performed (that kind of defeats the purpose of art). Like many expressions of art, songwriting does not have to follow any hard set rules, but for your music to have broad appeal (if that is what you are going for), it is a good idea to understand basic song structure. There is no doubt that there are some phenomenally creative and talented artists out there, who take unconventional approaches to their lyric and melody writing. I think it is safe to say that most music listeners appreciate some kind of direction and organization. This is where song structure transforms your work from chaotic ramblings to purposeful connection. Study your favorite artists. Think of examples of your favorite songs. Chances are you will find deliberate song structure, with a clear point and direction. Now creative types typically do not like the idea of rules or structure, but there is a lot of creative play within the confines of a well crafted song and an infinite catalogue of popular music proves it. In popular music, there are four basic components to compose a song: verse, pre-chorus, chorus, and bridge. Depending on what kind of song you are writing, all, some, or only one of these elements may be all you need.
Verse
The verse is where you tell the story and “preview” the central idea of your song (driven home by the chorus). It is typically your lyrical introduction, revealing the themes layer by layer. This is generally where you have to grasp the listener’s attention. The following verses develop the story or expand on the central idea.
Pre-Chorus
The pre-chorus does not appear in every song, but it is a very effective way of setting up a dynamic transition into the chorus. The lyrics and melody typically go with the flow of the verse, but are distinctly different. A lot of times it will be the same lyric line, regardless of the verse, but it can also be a great expansion and new perspective of your verses.
Chorus
This is where the central idea or theme of your song takes hold, and you drive home your hook (that part of the song that sticks in the listeners head). A lot of times the lyric lines are a little simpler here, with a dynamic melody.
026
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Bridge
Sometimes you will want to insert a bridge, which usually occurs later in the song (typically after the second chorus). The bridge usually has a distinctly different melody, and lyrically it sums up or reveals new insight into the theme of the song. Sometimes it can just be an instrumental solo. Intro/Outro This usually has to do more with arrangement and production, than actual writing. The intro is the first thing a listener hears, so you will want to open up strong. A lot of the time it is only an instrumental, but lyric lines or vocals are many times present depending on the style and arrangement. The outro is the ending of the song. This is where you decide what the listener hears last. Sometimes it is just the chorus fading out, sometimes an abrupt stop, or any creative arrangement that you feel will have the most impact.
Common Song Structures
How you write, structure, and arrange your song, is completely up to you. Here are some of the more common arrangements: • • • •
Verse/Chorus/Verse/Chorus Verse/Chorus/Verse-Chorus/Bridge/Chorus Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/ Bridge/Chorus
You have many different arrangements to play with, and you can really let your creativity thrive here. If you want a more complex arrangement, you can try something like: •
Long Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Short Verse/Pre-Chorus/ Chorus/Bridge/Chorus
The more you play around and develop your arrangements, the better you will get at it. The biggest hurdle to jump, is to get out there and start!
Bret Piontek is an author and owner of “MusicTyro.com”, an online community of music learners and creators. MusicTyro provides articles and resources for music instruction, software, songwriting, and artist development. Visit us today for more resources on song structure.
sian did an A ilt I n e h 2002 w that really bu was in ig g lo one gig o job as a y first s isumu. It was ks. Today, my ntails K e ec Night in ence on the d ejay Academy d fed e a fi D n le n my co meboyz ays, both ma hat not o H t a j r dee jays t lecture to aspiring ration of dee g in t r re able o a e p n d p e n u g s a and usic ate a ciate m training strive to cre e r p p a e eople lso many p wn male. W rstand, but a g in t e e de my o een m only un uality music. usic in b has b m y jo g y in q m y e t enjo eatest jo r e g v produc st thing abou y lo m o h. I als ion and The be so muc profess e y b m r e e h ir chalc p erious who ins tyle. I am a tea s. s y n e a d ds e assum en’t ha student m v y way an s a e h m k I g a on werin ause ich m ps me e e is empo ery lucky bec ve my job wh k t a t wh reciI am v emale DJ. I lo say tha econdly, I app illd u f o w a S I . ava as enges. ust God dication and ll lenges r a t h I c ll e a oth e f th t above ve for b erest, d a t most o lo h in t d t y a c M a ith. he f my m ame. top is t ople I work w attitude and of my g r you p o t e n a p o hateve ate the ngside my div also kept me put in w will also u e lo o v y a a t h y r abilit ment aying ra effo ea commit nd deej eejays, the ext s a u ic io r s e u n becom t. S d a m c l. g e y v in d ir le o p t anyb inmen To all as ou to the nex ve that y loves enterta can, e li e y b e I k , a s d y t busines ersonall nt and everybo do will P e t . a y d n im a it e h g m come in sic is entertain g music as a le spel u in k M a . y both go to m . r y d deeja o e ja f t e n a e ic d io ea duct y ded Anybod r of fact, becom into music pro e e r t u t as a ma uture I will vent f e h t In ts. ular artis c e s d n a
M
028
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
o known ls a , i b m u Mary M 3 year-old 3 a is , e as DJ Mo m ailing fro h a iv d t en he independ Nairobi.S in t s e W n nd Lavingto Kisumu a in p u t h g anza was brou ion at Ny t a c u d E e studied llege. Sh o C g in h Teac o Christian move int ld o b e h et 9 then mad try in 199 s u d in g yin J. the deeja nowned D e r a g in rry ]. upon ma ve [music a r C h it w es She shar
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
029
Interested in music?
Want To Be A Disc Jockey? Read This First Turntables are pretty amazing devices; they are not gadgets or gimmicks. A turntable is the tool and instrument of a DJ
D
isc Jockeys are considered the life of any party these days. No night club seems to be able to do without them. Also called Deejays, they play music creatively for radio stations or nightclubs. The radio Disc Jockeys (called Radio Jockeys) not only play music but also talk about the news, sports and hold talk shows with celebrities or even the public. The disc jockeys working for clubs mix music and create special effects apart from providing enthusiastic comments in between. Deejays have to not only carry out music recording but also be good talkers. They need to record the latest and most happening music and do it in a way that is sensitive to the dancers’ requirements. The job is certainly not an easy one as most disc jockeys have to work very late hours and may have to face a lot of isolation due to the nature of their job. Moreover, there is not a very huge market in small towns and to be successful they have to move to urban areas for more options.
030
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
When working for radio stations, disc jockeys may not only have to be involved in audio mastering but also have to work all alone in sound proof, air conditioned rooms. They have to be very highly in tune to the latest issues to be able to chat while playing music. They have to keep track of the time and co-ordinate music, talk show, requests and commercial breaks. They have to be well prepared with spicy and interesting titbits and organize the whole program. Thus, while it may seem that the job is easy; actually the disc jockeys have to go through a lot of script creation and live and unprepared chatting with other people. Talking without any notes is rather tough because they have to forever think on their toes and be alert. Moreover, a disc jockey needs to be able to work with all the recording software and studio equipments. They have to adjust sound and music and have erratic working hours. Since the radio stations are on air 24 hours a
Two Turntables and a Mic
day, the radio jockeys can be called anytime of the day and must be always prepared. They must have good speaking voices and good grasp of the language in which they broadcast. To start their career, disc jockeys may Mixin g reqfree uires o turclubs. have to work in tw certain ntableSince s. Ththere is is essentia l to be ab le to mi x rec are no specific courses for thisord job,s.they have You have two main options when it to be able to hold the pulsescom of their listeners. es to buying turntables. The first is the traaditgood They may have to establish ionalreputavinyl version and ond works is thevery CD well tion asthe thissec career by n, word versio alsof o called the CDJ, which allows youjockeys mouth. Normally, most disc aon CDs. to mix follow mu sic The choice is yours. Mo re an particular genre of music and are known for d mo re pe op le are mixing with CDJs as vin yl They record that specific type of music. must also s are rar e and expensiv as opposed to CDs.of Arecording have someetechnical knowledge new addition that you will find on the latest studio equipment and should havetur the confinta bles is the USB functionality. Th is is atogre dence to make the crowd dance their tunes. at fea ture as it allows you to conne thedifficult turntato but not least, it isctvery get ble to your comLast puter. Imagine being able to and regularly gigs in this profession savesomixes you havepaying ma onto your PC or they have to bede very well connected andlap aware top! You can edit them and improve them of the various parties and occasions that need wit h sound editing softwa them. Most discre.jockeys have different day jobs and use this as a part time job.
most wanted
Surround Sound Home Theater Systems
A
n important defining element within a home theater is the actual surround sound. By watching movies with it, you will experience a totally different movie experience. Most movie production studios take surround sound into account when designing sound elements which are usually compatible with most home systems. By using this audio, the special elements associated with movies such as suspense or action movies, are usually greatly enhanced. When it comes to home theaters, the actual sound is the very important component that compliments HD televisions. These two types are Digital Theater Systems and Dolby Laboratories. Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital as well as Dolby Laboratories are present in most home theaters. There are usually many sound enhancements in packages with regard to home theaters, such as Digital Theater Systems. These products contain the DTS mark. You can purchase many different sound options when buying Digital Theater Systems or Dolby Laboratories. You should be aware of the different sound formats associated with these products before purchasing. There are many DVDs which are usually marketed
031
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
which are now integrated using the Dolby sound option. Others are marked using the DTS option. For the sharper and clear sound, DTS audio is best. DTS uses less amount of compression compared to Dolby’s encoding. Users of home theaters need to decide whether DTS support needs to be involved in their own personal home theater system. Home theatre speakers setups associated with 7.1, 6.1, and 5.1 are usually most commonly used. The .1 in surround sound refers to the channel for that subwoofer. The number preceding the.1 stands with regard to how many speakers are in the system. Most channels with regard to subwoofers are usually in the lower frequency sound as well as are perfect to boost bass sound effects. Within the 5.1 surround system, the 5 stands for the speakers and the ‘.1’ stands for that subwoofer. The right, left or even rear speakers contain the actual surround sound The 6.1 surround sound system consists of the added speaker in the rear. Within the 7.1 system, there are 2 channels for the surround and the rear speakers complete the home theater setup. The above discussed theatre setups each complement the formats of surround sound. This may either be DTS or Dolby compatibility.
Gadgets THIS ISSUE’S
HOTTEST GEAR AND GIZMOS
GALORE
This issue No front side for the IceTouch MP3 player, 10 hours of video on the iPhone 4, and Apple’s magical tablet, the iPad. words ALENGA BOUYO
NOKIA C3
Keep track of your accounts on social network
L
APPLE IPAD
The ‘magical and revolutionary’ tablet is here at last
A
pple’s supersized iPod Touch, sorry, ‘magical and revolutionary’ tablet is here at last. The iPad is recognised immediately by the latest version of iTunes (9.1), automatically synching iPhone/iPod touch apps, music and video files, and contact, calendar and bookmarks (Internet Explorer only) on request The split screen makes email a breeze, with a nippy preview window that renders attached images and opens documents in a flash (although you can only save images, not PDFs or Office files). Contact, notes and calendar apps now try to look like real world address books and diaries, complete with nicely drawn bindings and ripped-off paper pages. In landscape mode, the keyboard is way too large to thumb out words with two hands, and even held upright, it feels a bit of a stretch. You have to either lay it down flat and tap with two fingers, or hold it with one hand and peck with the other. The 1024 x 768 screen is superb for everyday browsing, flipping between portrait
032
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
and landscape mode in seconds, delivering bright punchy colours and smooth animation. Bookmarks are well handled via a popup menu, though they lack icons. The redesigned iPod app is clear and functional but lacks the visual flair of desktop iTunes. The now familiar lefthand menu bar is no substitute for flicking through a virtual carousel of album covers, and it lacks the ability to sort songs by rating. Sound quality through the builtin speakers is predictably dire so connect a pair of decent headphones to enjoy rich, detailed audio. Video quality is simply stunning, packed with detail and natural colours. Last but not least, the iPad’s battery life seems to be solid. After four hours of installing apps, watching videos, listening to music, downloading files and emailing, the battery level dropped from 88% to just 70%. That suggests you will get a full day of use or more from a single charge of its 25Wh lithium polymer battery. www.t3.com
ike many phones on the market, many of them are coming with QWERTY keyboard and with optimization for social networking sites. In order to follow the standards Nokia has decided to release the latest C3 for social networking fans. Therefore, if you want to keep track of all your accounts on social websites Nokia C3 is perfect for it. It is fully optimized for social websites so you can access SMS, MMS and IM in a second with a single button. With this phone you can view alerts and news on your home screen and access several services such as Yahoo mail, Windows Live Hotmail, Gmail. As for the specs, C3 comes with 2.4inch QVGA display and it can display 320 x 240 pixel resolution. It comes with 2 megapixels camera with a 4x digital zoom and with 55 MB internal memory that can be expanded with microSD card up to 16 GB. As for connectivity, it is using Bluetooth and WiFi, but there’s no 3G support.
THE DETAILS...
2G Network: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 Dimensions: 115.5 x 58.1 x 13.6 mm , 63.2 cc Weight: 114 g Display Type: TFT, 256K colors Display Size: 320 x 240 pixels, 2.4 inches with a Full QWERTY keyboard Internal Memory: 55MB with card slot Bluetooth: Yes, v2.1 with A2DP Camera: 2 MP, 1600x1200 pixels
Gadgets Galore
Sony Ericsson XPERIA X8 With a 600MHz CPU, a 3� 16M-color TFT capacitive touchscreen and a 3-megapixel fixed-focus camera this phone is aimed at the masses.
Sanyo Xacti VPC-SH1 This neat and ergonomically sound range-topping dual video and stills solution from Sanyo offers Full HD 1920x1080 pixels recording and interpolated 10 megapixel photos.
IPHONE 4
The diplay has 326 pixels per inch
IceTouch MP3 player Samsung’s version of the MP3 player
T
he Samsung H1 is a one-of-a-kind device that has a completely transparent display casing showing the touch screen from both the front and the back. It is shown here in reverse view, and will be navigable from the back and front.
Essentials for... the couch potato
T
he new iPhone 4 is 24% thinner than the iPhone 3GS (9.3mm) and four times the resolution. Apple calls it Retina display. This means extremely fine print and smooth curves. The display has 326pixels per inch, more than our eye can resolve. Everything looks much sharper. Available in black or white in 16 or 32GB models, the smartphone has glass on the front and back and steel around the sides. The stainless steel band around the side of the iPhone 4 -with a couple of precise indents - is designed to boost the antenna signal. This will help with Wi-Fi, GSM, GPS, UMTS and Bluetooth reception. The iPhone 4 boasts 7 hours of 3G talk, 6 hours of 3G browsing, 10 hours of WiFi browsing, 10 hours of video, 40 hours of music, and 300 hours standby time
82 inch 3-D Television Mitsubishi TV creates a buzz
W
ith a massive 82 inch, 3-Dready television, TV laggard Mitsubishi is attracting fresh buzz this year. 3-D TVs will require consumers to wear special glasses. However, most folks have just gotten done upgrading to a flat panel and are not 3-D ready. But Mitsubishi hopes to bridge this gap with a TV set that works both with 2-D and the new 3-D programming that is rolling out. ESPN just announced it will be launching a 3-D network that will highlight 84 sports events this year, including matches for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. And Discovery Communications announced its own 3-D network.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
033
034
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Traditional
Cameroonian traditional folk musician Kareyce Fotso only recently broke into the international arena with her soulful voice and powerful stage performances. She was in Kenya last month during her East, Central and Southern Africa tour and got to share with Crave [music] about her nine year pursuit of her first love. words MUFU NDOSI
K
areyce was born in Bamileke in Cameroon. Although she was raised in urban Cameroon, her parents were both very traditional. During school holidays, they would go the village and sometimes spend months there. “So I learnt a lot from my grand mamma,” says Kareyce. That probably planted the traditional music seed into the musician way before she even knew she would pursue a career that entailed singing about love, poverty and politics. After school, Kareyce got to study Chemistry and Audio Media. She then worked for Cameroon National Television station for a year before her musical activities began to creep into her job. Says Kareyce in her Beti-francophone accent, “One day my director say to me, ‘Everyday you not at work, you have choice to make, you want to work or not?’” And thus began her music journey of triumphs and pitfalls. “Sometimes life, not just for artists, even for other professionals, life in Africa is hard. It’s not like in another continent where if you do something you’re sure about tomorrow. In Cameroon, and I know it’s the same in Kenya and everywhere in Africa, you can go to school, have all types of degrees and still have no work,” says a stern Kareyce, whose grammar we have edited for our readers’ sake. Her mother wanted her to pursue medicine, but often defended her daughter from relatives who thought she was on the road to failure. “But you have to believe. Personally, if I’m
here today, it’s just because of belief.” She goes on to say that she even used to cry in her room, asking God why He would not answer her prayers. “I say, ‘God, why, after all these years of hard work; look at my fingers which get blistered because I want to play guitar; I play drums every day, my hands are coarse. God, why don’t you want to listen to my prayers and do something?’” And it seemed like her prayers were falling on deaf ears, that is, until 2009. 2009 was the year of Kareyce. After entering Visa pour la Creation, an annual competition organized by Culture France, Kareyce emerged the winner among entries from all over Africa and the Caribbean. In the same year, she represented Cameroon in Prix de la Francophony, an event that attracted 16 french speaking countries. Her country emerged second after Switzerland, while Canada took the Bronze medal. She also entered another competition organized by France International Broadcast, which had over six hundred contestants. Kareyce, representing Cameroon, was a finalist together with Senegal and Mauritania. As a result of winning these competitions, Kareyce has been on a roller coaster ride around the globe. “Now am playing to the world; nobody knew me three years ago,” says Kareyce. “Everything has changed. In February this year, I was in Vancouver where I performed at the Winter Olympic Games. It was very exciting; I was singing on the same stage as other big acts like Anjelique
My first challenge is to stay in Cameroon. So many times people ask me if I live in France CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
035
Kidjo.” Kareyce then went on a tour of fifteen African countries for winning last year’s Visa pour la Creation. The tour ended in April. In May, Kareyce proceeds with Culture France to perform at the annual Musiques Metisses Festival in Angouleme, France. In June, she is off to Toulouse and then South Africa, as she accompanies her national soccer team for the World Cup. While still based in Cameroon, all this traveling is starting to overwhelm the world musician. “My first challenge is to stay in Cameroon. So many times people ask me if I live in France. When we see African musicians traveling a lot, we think that they live in Europe or USA. I have to stay in Cameroon, in Africa. Any aspiring artist needs to know that you can stay home and be a great artist.” Kareyce has released an 11-track album of traditional folk music, perfectly blended with acoustic guitar rhythms, the akul drum and shakers. It is clear that she is a spiritual individual and is sincerely grateful for her achievements so far. After nine years of hard work, she may now boast of success, “I thank God very much, because you may have talent but you have to wait for God to choose you.” And with her determination and passion, why wouldn’t he?
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
036
Traditional
Beti C Folk Music words JASON KAHN
ameroon is home to numerous distinct ethnic groups. The Beti, or Ewondo, are among the most numerous, and live in the area around YaoundĂŠ and south into Equatorial Guinea. The Beti are best-known for bikutsi music, which has been popularized and become a rival for the more urban and accessible makossa of Douala. Bikutsi is characterized by an intense 6/8 rhythm, and is played at all sorts of Beti gatherings, including parties, funerals and weddings. The word bikutsi can be loosely translated as beating the ground continuously. Beti gatherings fall into two major categories: Ekang phase: the time when imaginary, mythological and spiritual issues are discussed and Bikutsi phase: when real-life issues are discussed. A double sided harp with calabash amplification called the mvet is used during these ceremonies, by Beti storytellers, who are viewed as using
the mvet as an instrument of God to educate the people. The Ekang phase is intensely musical, and usually lasts all night. There are poetic recitations accompanied by clapping and dancing, with interludes for improvised and sometimes obscene performances on the balafon (a type of xylophone). These interludes signal the shift to the bikutsi phase, which is much less strictly structured than Ekang. During bikutsi, women dance and sing along with the balafon, and lyrics focus on real-life problems, as well as sexual fantasies. These female choruses are an integral part of bikutsi, and their intense dancing and screams are characteristic of the genre. Another type of ceremony is the mevungu, when women dance all night in order to abstain from sex during those hours for a period of nine days. This ritual is much-feared by Beti boys, as it involves a series of tests to mark a boy’s passage into manhood.
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
037
Club Scene
THE HOTTEST CLUBS AND BARS
EAST AFRICA
The Simba Saloon Langata Road
Wednesdays: Rock — entry: KShs. 200 Thursdays: Urban Legends — entry: KShs. 300 1st Friday of every month: New Jack Swing 3rd Friday of every month: Rhumba Saturdays: Carnivore Rave — entry: KShs. 200 Sundays: Soul — entry: KShs. 200
In this issue Carnivore’s The Simba Saloon, Laikiana in Kilimani and the goings on at the timeless Club Afrique and Psys.
PLUS... THURSDAYS Rezorous
WESTLANDS Dancehall and Reggae by DJs Nruff and Wesley from 7pm
SATURDAYS
KlubHouse 1 Ojijo Road, Parklands
Monday: In-house DJ Tuesday: Girls Nite and Best of 70’s Wednesday: Kool n tha Gang Thursday: Karaoke Nite Friday: In-house DJ Saturday: Gogosimo Band Sunday: Nyama Choma Sunday Party NO COVER CHARGE.
WESTLANDS Dancehall and Reggae by DJs Nruff and Wesley from 7pm
Wednesday: Karaoke from 6.00pm until late Thursday: Divas Night from 2.00pm until late Friday: Happy House from 6.00pm until late Saturday: Party’s Nite NO COVER CHARGE.
MUSEUM HILL Live Benga, Chakacha, Jazz and other Kenya tunes by Wakurugenzi Band from 8 - 11pm
Woodvale Grove, Westlands Wednesday: DJ Sumo plays mixed music Thursday: DJ Zelalem plays House Music Friday: Afro Fusion with DJ Mark Saturday: Band Night Sunday - Tuesday: Salsa
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Rafikiz
friDAYS
Havana
TUeSDAYS
Psys
Unga House, Woodvale Lane, Westlands
038
Blue Times Lounge
MUSEUM HILL Live Benga, Chakacha, Jazz and other Kenya tunes by Wakurugenzi Band from 8 - 11pm
Blue Times Lounge
SUnDAYS
New Visa Place
UPPERHILL, MARA ROAD Kayamba Africa, DJ Siddy and DJ Moha. Family Fun Day from 2pm onwards
WEDnESDAYS
Coco Lifestyle Lounge MONROVIA STREET Soul and Oldies Night from 8pm onwards
Club Scene
Mwenda’s Cocktail Pub
UTALII HOUSE off Uhuru Highway Wednesdays: Reggae Nite Fridays: Funky Fridays Saturdays: Party Saturdays
MORE... SUNDAYS Splash
LANG’ATA ROAD Them Mushrooms from 7pm
K1 Klub House, Pitcher & Butch PARKLANDS
Tuesdays: Jazz Nite with Mwai Thursdays: Karaoke hosted by Naaru Saturdays: Gogosimo Band
SATURDAYS
Blue Times Lounge
MUSEUM HILL Live Benga, Chakacha, Jazz and other Kenya tunes by Wakurugenzi Band from 8 - 11pm
TUeSDAYS Rafikiz Bar and Lounge Next to Psys, Langata
Wednesdays: Kidum Thursdays: Dan Aceda Fridays: Blazin’ Inferno DJs Sundays: Old School with DJ Dru
Laikiana KILIMANI
Wednesdays: Karaoke Thursdays: Salsa Fridays: Boogie Woogie Saturdays: Soul Nite Sundays: Rock Nite
Mercury Lounge ABC PLACE, WESTLANDS Mondays: Monday Blues Tuesdays: Wine & Jazz Wednesdays: Sista Sista Thursdays: Wine & Jazz Fridays: Nostalgia Saturdays: Mix Sundays: Smooth
Brew Bistro & Lounge
NGONG ROAD M20, move to overdrive from 7pm
friDAYS
Blue Times Lounge
MUSEUM HILL Live Benga, Chakacha, Jazz and other Kenya tunes by Wakurugenzi Band from 8 - 11pm
040 040
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Photos PAUL MUNENE Stylist TRISH KIM Make-up MBUGUA, Ashleys Salon Location SERAPH LOUNGE
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
041
Pleated Cocktail Dress KShs. 3,000; Black Strappy Heals KShs. 4,500 Zash Collection, No. 46, Jamia Mall, 1st Floor Shop,
042
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
043
Be Smart. Be Safe Protect Yourself
Nina Ogot’s NinaiFeaturing Dela’s Paulwa, Mozart on Moi robi, Kacumbari Seven’s lokoa and many more Avenue, and BTD’s Wa t singles and albums. we present the season’s bes
Reviews
ALBUMS, SINGLES, MOVIES AND CHARTS
Paukwa DELA
PRODUCERS: Penya Records words ANA LETIK
A
deline Maranga, a.k.a Dela, started her music career as a backup vocalist in live performances of various artists including Dan Aceda, Villager’s Band and Achieng Abura. Having nurtured her talent among some of Kenya’s top afro fusion artists, it is easy to see why Dela feels at home in this genre. In 2009, the 20-something architecture university student released her debut album, Paukwa, aptly named to mark the beginnings of a musical journey. In it, she speaks on social issues including love, corruption and the high level of poverty affecting our society today. While Dela’s writing skills are yet to be challenged, the master on the mixer is Robert ‘Wawesh’ Kiboy. He lets the singer’s voice champion the instrumentation, by laying down the bare minimum. Consequently, her voice and the music complement each other as opposed to going against each other. The first track, titled Every Season, is a solemn intro warning us of our actions and the consequences of the choices we make. It is deftly accompanied by Sauti Sol’s Polycarp Otieno on his acoustic guitar. War in My Heart starts as a prayer. The content is heavy laden with questions to ponder about our society. All this is layered upon subtle instrumentation; you can hear the glacial synth, the light congas in simple time and the chords delicately punctuating her phrases. Paukwa Pakawa, which bears the title of the album, is a beautiful soft rock song, yet again tackling social issues. Although the music is well thought-out, an untimely modulation
OUR MICROPHONE RATINGS 046
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
sets the singer into a desperate falsetto, hence foiling the climax. The 12-track CD has many other languorous pieces including Yeye Ndiye, Adamu na Hawa, Kama and Nakujali, all of which are love songs. Amidst these, you have Listen where soul meets hip hop. Then there is the disco fever in Ulivyo, and there is Weche Tek, where benga meets neo-soul. Dela collaborates with Sauti Sol in Mama Papa, whose reggae feel lingers on way after the song is over. Evidently, Paukwa exhibits Dela’s skillful vocal ability. Her powerful, yet occasionally tor-
tured vocals, cover an impressive range. By setting such high standards in her first album, Dela may have really outdone herself…or not. This is just the beginning.
WE SAY This album is a display of vocal dexterity and meticulous craftsmanship
OVERALL:
With every album or single we review, we tell it like it is and give it crave [music]’s authoritative microphone rating. Here’s what those microphones mean: EXCELLENT
WORTH IT
OK BY US
POOR
AWFUL
Reviews
Ear for the Music
Sidney Simila, 18
I’ve been listening to a lot of Jazz, Afro-fusive and Neo-soul lately. Locally, I fancy Eric Wainaina, Chris Adwar and the Villagers Band, along with Sauti Sol. Internationally, I would stick to Oliver Mtukudzi and Hugh Masekela.
Nina Ogot: Ninairobi
The intricately arpeggiated classical guitar intro prepares you for a serious discussion
T
his is an 8-track compilation of rich acoustic music. The album begins with Muziki, with back-up vocals provided by Sauti Sol’s Chimano and Baraza in the refrain. It is followed by Chokoraa, written by Sarah Mitaru, is laid on a slow rhumba beat. As with most of the songs in this album, the acoustic guitar provides the melodic and rhythm support to Nina’s soulful voice. Ninairobi makes for an interesting arrangement. The verses play in a relatively lively tempo in contrast to the refrain which carries on lazily. Rabi is a solemn song performed in lingala, appropriately embellished with both acoustic and electric guitar. Perhaps it is Run Away that takes the crown; also vocally backed by Chimano and Baraza. In its minor tonality, the intricately arpeggiated classical guitar intro prepares you for a serious discussion, something Mansoor Seck might have done for Baaba Maal. The sudden pauses in the chorus effectively capture your attention to ponder the issue at hand, will you run away? Ninairobi is a unique piece of work whose content is thoughtfully prepared and wellexecuted.
Mozart on Moi Avenue: Kachumbari Seven
Each piece in the album reflects aspects of Indian, Kenyan and European cultures all fused together
T
Jemimah Muriithi, 25
I’ve been listening to gospel, classical , rock and country. My favourite international artist is Justin Timberlake, local is Redsan. My favourite local song is No Letting Go by M.O.G.
Patience Mwangi, 21
I listen to RnB and a bit of rock. Ne-yo is my favourite international artist, while locally I like Harry Kimani and Wyre.
he Kachumbari Seven Band is a new musical group for Nairobi that features a meltdown of African, Asian and European cultures. The band’s aim is to produce new and original performances that cut across cultural barriers. Mozart on Moi Avenue, the group’s debut album, is named after its title track which alludes to the music of Mozart along with the rich timbres of African percussion, Indian bamboo flutes and tablas, the Kisii Obokano as well as some European instruments like the guitar, viola and double bass, among others. Each piece in the album reflects aspects of Indian, Kenyan and European cultures all fused together, with the music drawing from every conceivable source. Tongue twisters are given a new life in “Cha@t” in which a bird tries to learn the many languages of Nairobi but ends up twisting its tongue. In “Hippo” a British poet’s poem is set to music. “Melody in Rag Yaman” whisks the listener off to a night in an Indian Town with its evocative, lilting tune. In “Githurai to Galway”, an Irish backpacker supposedly meets a beautiful girl on River road, Nairobi, and is told about a well thatched house and cattle back at her home. In “Five Sheep”, a European sheep shearer works to the sounds of pleasant Indian bamboo flutes and African drums. The well known rhythms of Luo Ohangla are heard in “Ramogi Samosa” acting as a foundation for improvisation, especially for the Melodica and Indian Bamboo flutes. In “Ngoma Tano”, rhythms from the Coast of Kenya take charge with the Kirigongo featuring largely. In total, the album contains 11 delightful and creative tracks lasting a total of about 55 minutes. The number of instruments used by the band is innumerable, and the versatility of each member is indescribable. The album cover photograph makes reference to the Beatles’ Abbey Road album released over 40 years ago, and in it, members of K7 (as the band is known by its members) take a picture crossing Moi Avenue with their instruments. One of the members is dressed up as Mozart and another is on an Adopt-A-Light advertisement in the background. There is also a Matatu number 7, heading to a fictitious destination “Kachumbari” waiting patiently for them to cross. Mozart on Moi Avenue is a sensational masterpiece that, for sure, all music enthusiasts will enjoy listening to and drawing from..
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
047
Reviews
BREAKING OUT Walokoka: BTD (Bwayos The Disciple)
Ear for the Music
While more time should have been accorded in this production, BTD is commended for taking the first step
W
alokoka, which makes an exciting intro into this Christian hip hop album, is no doubt BTD’s main attraction - even though Haitoshi may eventually gather more fans. Walokoka means ‘Are You Saved?’ Although the rhyme spitting in the first verse calls for a lighter, quicker tongue, the second verse is well articulated in a contemporary language the artist is more at home with. Track Two, Omubiri Gwange features Tupos and Peggy. It has a very gangsta feel, except for the French excerpt, which rather catches you by surprise as it changes the setting from ghetto to Paris. Track 3, Haitoshi, features songstress Emma. Her sweet luganda tongue brings in the melody so beautifully in this track, which is performed in Kiswahili, English, Luganda and Kikuyu. Other vocals are provided by BTD’s crew, Phabetiks which stands for Preaching His Anointing By Expressing Truth in Kingdom Songs. God’s Love, whose music is heavily borrowed from the Lost Boys 1996 hit single, Renee, features lyricist, Marle. In his first album, BTD experiments with language use. Since it takes a lot of practice to pull off the American twang, perhaps he should explore the various East African tongues that enrich this album, especially luganda and sheng. In rap, as in singing, it is often recommended to use one’s natural voice, to convey one’s message effectively and to avoid unnecessary distractions. Voice overlapping in this album could also be better synchronized for clarity; remember the devil is in the details. While more time should have been accorded in this production, BTD is commended for taking the first step, which takes guts and a whole load of spunk..
OUR SPEAKER RATINGS
With every album or single we review, we tell it like it is and give it crave [music]’s authoritative speaker rating. Here’s what those speakers mean: A STAR IS BORN
ON THE RIGHT TRACK
SHOWS POTENTIAL
BACK TO THE STUDIO
TRY ANOTHER JOB
048
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Geoffery Oketch, 38
I enjoy listening to Zilizopendwa, RnB, bongo flava and classical. My favourite artists are Eric Wainaina and Michael Jackson
Catherine Ngonyo, 26
I’m a die-hard Bongo Flava fan; the catchy beats and poetic lyrics just make my day! You can never go wrong with anything by Lady JD, Ali Kiba, Professor J and TID
Charles Kimenyi, 26
I listen to Afro-fusion and RnB. My favourite local and international artists are Harry Kimani and Imogen Heap, respectively. I love Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap.
Video Court
TOP 10
Kiriro
Daddy Owen ft Allan Aaron, Kerah TeCa Picha
HoTrax O DOUBLE
1 2 3 4 PLAN B 5 6 7 8 DJ SADIC, ALEMBA ft. 9 JULIANI 10 Eya
NONINI
Kataa Hiyo
MADTRAXX Big Shot
DNA
Mtoto Wa Sonko Dreamer
J
esus went to the desert for prayer and fasting for 40 days and nights. We can pretty much get the scenario by watching this video. The trio, accompanied by the 5-piece choir shot the video on a dried lake clad in white kanzus in sack-cloth. They are in prayer. Also in the video are images of a woman tethered to a tree, or rather to the sins of this world. She is later freed. The choice of location is ingenious. However, considering we are in the middle of nowhere, the microphone is a totally unnecessary prop.
Greedy
Kidum ft. Nameless Moja Entertainment
P-UNIT
Hapa Kule
KEVO ft. K-FORCE Death Wish
A-STAR
T
he video starts with a stern newspaper title: Land of the Dying, and this sets the scene for the images to come. All images and video clips are real-life situations and newspaper headlines depicting poverty and hunger afflicting our region. While the video does an excellent job in capturing the mood expressed on the song, we seem to see only one side of the coin – the destitution. It would have been more effective to also show how the greedy ones live. After all, they are the greedy ones being addressed.
Songa
Pages za Bible
JUA CALI Ni Imbie
Mbagala Diamond
Adam Juma
T
he video starts with a breakup in progress right at the heart of a uswazi dwelling. The girl is leaving him for a loaded guy. We see his huge mansion, fancy clothes, flashy sports car... There is a lavish wedding. She is happily married and has moved on with her life. Meanwhile, away from the manicured lawns, standing in the midst of a dumpsite, our poor guy is totally heartbroken and depressed. But all is not lost; all of a sudden this gorgeous girl comes to console him. They walk away together - the beginnings of a ghetto love.!
Video Court
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
049
Keeping Season Warm
This
Photos PAUL MUNENE
Stylist TRISH KIM
Location SERAPH LOUNGE
Helen: Light Blue Open Cardigan KShs. 1,500; Green Cinch Belt KShs. 500; Green Beaded Necklace KShs. 1,000; Green Woven Beret KShs. 50; Brown Stocking KShs. 350; Brown Metallic Boots KShs. 2,500 Cardigan, Cinch and Stockings from Zedi’s Collection, Elegant Exhibition. Necklace from Yunas Jewellery Beret from Gikomba Market. Boots from Gorgeous Shoes, Elegant Exhibition
050
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Wachira: Luminous Green Sweater KShs. 1,500; Pin Stripped Navy Blue Pants Model’s Own; Stripped Shirt KShs. 1,500
Sweater from Elegant Exhibition. Stripped Shirt from Top Shop Discount Bazaar
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
051
Helen: Black Sweater Dress KShs. 500; Purple Cinch Belt KShs. 1,000 Purple Clutch Bag KShs. 1,000; Brown Ankle Boots KShs. 1,500 Sweater from Zedi’s Collection, Elegant Exhibition. Belt from Vostis, Stall F68, Jamia Mall Clutch Bag from Gikomba Market. Boots from Adams Arcade
052
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
Wachira: White T-shirt with sprayed paint effect KShs. 800; Black and White Leather Jacket KShs. 3,500 Blue Denim Pants KShs. 2,500 T-shirt from Edu’s Shop, Elegant Exhibition. Jacket is model’s own. Pants from Top Shop, Discount Bazaar, Nairobi West
Helen: Pink Vest KShs. 200; Blue Skinny Jeans KShs. 2,400; Brown Boots KShs. 2,500; Black Hooded Leather Jacket KShs. 1,500 Vest and jacket from Zedi’s Collection. Skinny jeans from Mr. Price. Brown Boots from Gorgeous Shoes, Elegant Exhibition,
CRAVEMUSICMAG.COM
053