Pulser June Issue

JUne 2019

L IVE IT UP!

LIVE IT UP!

LEI V EU IPT! U P !

LIV IT

NoT For Sale

Triple Threat Mayonde, Gin Ideal and Trina Mungai on tour

top in africa

Sho Madjozi for bET awards

KhaliGraph joNeS

The OG opens up about music, haters, falling in love, and becoming a father.

+

fashion • beaUty • rides • food • adventure • sPorts • reviews

CON TEN TS CELEBRITIES, MUSIC AND SHOWBIZ 10.

The acting hunk – nick mutuma 12.

Fashion wizard – ashok Sunny 22-25. mayonde, ginIdeal, Trina mungai 26–31. Khaligraph Jones aka The Og FOOD, HEALTH and FITNESS 34.

Insane on zumba 18 grillin’ me softly 20. perfect Vegan parfait 40.

Books at Java House 42. unboxing Boabox FASHION and BEAUTY 8.

Loose change 9.

Homage in air 44-45. nesting with nancy 46-49. achie on alter-sona 50.

Before colouring that air RIDES, TOYS AND ADVENTURE 14-15. Curvaceous Corvette 16.

The second hand…

36-37. Dance with the beests 38-39. pleasure of prague LIFE, TECH AND REVIEWS 54.

Boots and Balls 56. movies and books 62.

Horoscopes 60-61. Let’s go gamming

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The TeaM CHIeF eXeCuTIVe OFFICeR oRLanDo LYoMU DePuTY eDITORIAL DIReCTOR kiPkoech tanUi MAnAGInG eDITOR – WeeKenD/MAGAZIneS John BUnDotich

FROM The DesK

eDITOR SteVenS MUenDo

GET FIRED UP

ReVISe eDITORS feRDinanD MwonGeLa JUDith MwoBoBia

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SuB eDITOR waiRiMU nYinGi MAnAGeR, PRInT CReATIVe Dan weLoBa CReATIVe DeSIGneR JoSeck MUtoRo PHOTOGRAPHY HeAD OF PHOTOGRAPHY JacoB otieno PHOTOGRAPHY DIReCTOR MaXweLL aGwanDa DIGITAL nJaMBi MUnGai keVin oGUoko COnTRIBuTORS tonY MochaMa PeRiS waMBUGU RoSe kwaMBoka PaUL oweRe ahaDi waMBUi BaRBaRa nYaMBURa fReD kaGonYe tonY aiRo Boniface Mithika achie otiGo MaRGaRet nGenYa winnie Makena tRacY GeSaRe PHOTOGRAPHeRS eLViS oGina MARKeTInG Seth enoS COMMeRCIAL keVin GicheRU JacQUeLine MaSakU eDITORIAL enQuIRIeS Switch Board tel: 3222111/0719012111 ext 2243 +254 721 607 555 email: editor@Pulsermagazine. com COMMeRCIAL enQuIRIeS kevin Gicheru - +254 722 994 458 Jacqueline Masaku – +254 721210752/+254722987889 DISTRIBuTIOn Duncan Murei - +254 719012111 Pulser magazine is published by the Standard Group PLc

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Subscribe @Pulserkenya

y son Liam Leeroy turns three this month. and coincidentally, it is also the month we celebrate International Father’s Day. So happy Father’s Day to me and to all the fathers… and the pulsers aspiring to join the club. Here is a toast to you. a few weeks ago, Khaligraph Jones posted some beautiful pictures of himself and his glowing heavily pregnant girlfriend. Just prior to that, the pulser team had a date with “The Og’ in his Kilimani office where he bubbled with excitement over being a dad. Since I have known him, I have never seen him so animated. Heck, he even smiled more times than a ‘lyrical gangster’ should.

The award-winning hip-hop artiste went on to wax poetic about falling in love, becoming a family man and his dreams for fatherhood. Displaying a very rare vulnerable side to him, he admitted to having ‘secrets’ that ensures that his relationship works seamlessly. Did he share them? You bet he did. He was in a very confessional mood. and our cover story this month is probably the most unobtrusive peek into his life you can ever hope to get. and from us, the pulser crew, we wish ‘The Og’ and his young family the very best. additionally, our resident astrologer predicts that June is the month that things get fired up. It is supposed to be a very lucky month when the galaxy allows dreams to blossom and stars to shine. and as things get fired up in your life, the wild isn’t left far behind; The great wildebeest migration season is beginning, the Lewa marathon is in top gear, and rhino Charge piques up the adrenaline of

adventure lovers.

What else is happening in June? We are marking the end of the Holy month of ramadhan, the men’s paris Fashion week is getting underway and of course the BeT and groove music awards.

It is everything to get excited about with the good vibes, food festivals and outdoor gigs that we should expect. and if all that doesn’t get you fired up, maybe our pulser cocktail of celebrity showbiz, fashion, travel and adventure, technology and trends health and fitness will.

Bonus reads? get up close and personal with Triple Threat, the hottest touring girl group in town. also get into patoranking’s business, and find out who the newest celebrity dads in town are.

Indulge in the content the pulser team worked so hard on, and let it remind you of the simplest pleasures of life. get your groove on, for this is Yours Truly, the enjoyment of life.

Stevens Muendo Editor

puLSer magazIne june 2019

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lOOse Change

COURTESY

- PeRiS waMBUGU

Double Layered Chain: @Sh500 (Dubois)

2

1 red Beret: @Sh500 (gikomba)

Bralette Sheer Top: @Sh1,000 (Toi market)

7 6

8

Black Strappy Heels: @ Sh2,200 (Online)

hOT daTE nIGhT

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red Lipstick: @Sh1,000 (Super Cosmetics)

3

4 5

gold Cuff: @ Sh 2,500 (Kipato unbranded)

Button Down midi Skirt: @ Sh2,000 (Toi market)

Black Box Clutch Bag: @ Sh2,500 (market Stalls, muindi

TRenDs — Boniface Mithika

air Jordan

4 ‘Bred’ M

ay 7, 1989; Cleveland, Ohio: a floating jumper at the foul line beats a buzzer, crushes one city, lifts another and cements two legends. The first of those is the shooter — michael Jordan himself — who finished the series clinching game five with 44 points. The other is his shoe, the black and red air Jordan IV. The return of the iconic air Jordan 4 Bred hit the shelves last month as nike was celebrating the air Jordan 4’s 30th anniversary. also nicknamed the “Black Cements,” the shoe made its last retro in 2012 featuring a Jump man logo on the heel. The last time it featured Og nike air branding was in 1999, and this 2019 retro sneaker carries that same branding once more.

Covered in the Og hues of “Black/Cement grey-Summit White-Fire red” is a streamlined, race-car-like game shoe complete with a lightweight nubuck upper and ventilated via mesh-filled cutouts. The style is completed with the Jumpman logo flight branding seen on the tongues.

This release of the air Jordan 4 Bred pays homage to its debut on the court with michael Jordan J in 1989 nBa playoffs against Cleveland. Dressed in its original colour scheme Black, Cement grey, and Fire red, these new pairs also include a remastered build with the nike air branding on the heel and

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insole.

The release celebrated its cool nature that made it an instant style staple both on and off the court. and although most sneakerheads know what to expect when it comes to Jordan Brand releases, this particular release came with a bit more spectacular firsts including:

The original box – back for the first time since 1989

“Nike Air” heel branding – back for the first time since 1999 The original Jumpman and

“Flight” lockup that debuted on the Jordan IV

This is a true-to original retro, which is alluring and it is really cool and they come in full unisex and family sizing which will cost you back approximately KSH20,000 for a pair.

COURTESY

hOT in TOwn — ahaDi waMBUi

whEThER On SET OR Off SET, nICk IS OnE hOT GUY nO GIRl Can GET hER EYES Off hIM

niCk & dua the ick s in to n n pia ose hes es cl with ka on t to com off Lu f es d g io om o one tarte layin inds o r rad 3 c s s p ll k ula 01 it , n o n he ntry , wh ning in a pop om 2 er cou tuma begin s feet sting its fr remi mu mble ed hi o; ho 1.5 H ic’s p lling i hu dipp s rad t on 9 mag ode esh s h a po rica nd m a Fr a e h uc ill S af - a ive the s u. H eers s e Ch ting - i mix nd n m ng ma i n h os rik tt a i r a s T s a a c h a s o lea utu t a Tab ative uch a ision mash s alc , re o. m o hos ’ c i v e s a s r ok C t rs on u c ws tele how ch u t m Lyra a an m Viewe inati a sho 2015, TV s ns s d om is a n i n g ee d g i c to style paig 5. is h eatur ou n a ma and n on h e am 01 f h i L hc 2 n y f r i c et us i ed e , f o wit tive in lso tr singl ll whe 14 a carp ly foc tw l in l 0 ith y gir ac He a hem to ca he 2 ) red to fu w n t a a t s an one ted mVC ided off. rder Skin ing 254 o the e hos s (a r, dec paid ss bo and ecom ntum is t als nt. H ward eve it has o cro is Is I to b ome ith h w a e t h o v d e oice e, h an ged s’ T s way his m ther w s a a Ch ht. H areer ana serie on hi eps t toge a ha utum nig ing c has m ssful itely he ke that utum ay m act nick ucce defin tar if ing is adi, m r’s D y s He is pers t th high athe F s gel hu nsit. od su eete get S appy d a o w i r H r s T llyw he e B ua.

H o n g . T l w i f l ed D goi utifu r cal bea ughte da

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COURTESY

W

hOT in TOwn — ahaDi waMBUi

STYlE dEfInES aShOk, ThE CalM and hUMblE dESIGnER wITh ThE hOTTEST lOOkS In TOwn

e on bt u o s ad ei ut rs. H own , o ith gne his red is w desi er in Tailo y n est pp ny un d a n k S ya’s b ing d k Su ecte n the o h s Ken ook sho resp rs o of ays l line a ost o sta est on alw hion the m es t l a t l l ec t i d m s s f i o a f ne o it c d h Co ure che lution feat also w o when n o t u s n k k la 0 evo t tha and i orld f h is y loo o c h r i n 2 o s b e h t W i 0 v a . r w eb h, 9/2 n e His iss asts h, et cel carp mont e 201 ptow tars. the m e bo jugus red Last n th nly u her s rs of esum ian n mong e ot tio -o ,a ed sr lec nvite and partn t. Hi com utua d l o s n c ni s l me n m a i e a l e a na re n in a mod he m pag such abe a o a s ey top e of t eauty ntele d and of re, th good r a b e l e n i i g o nya y cl , g at h ct u i n d f his pi look Ke ebrit tuma u o d l pr . In t s an y. ce k mu he t nic ers. k is t shok e sui rs’Da l oth asho ad a purp Fathe y em e nir g cut Happ u m kin it . roc ile at wh

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COURTESY

e k i l , r e h t a f n o s e lik

MOTORMOTO — Boniface Mithika

Curvaceous T

he 2019 Chevrolet Corvette is ranked #1 in Luxury Sports Cars. Currently, the Chevrolet Corvette has a score of 9.0 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 37 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette sits near the very top

SUPERCHARGED 6.2L V8 ENGINE

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of our luxury sports car rankings. It’s a well-rounded sportster that delivers tremendous performance and a quality interior.

Is the Chevrolet Corvette a Good Car? The Chevrolet Corvette is a great car, and it’s available in coupe and convertible body styles. There are several engine options, all of which deliver

TOP TRACK SPEED OF 212 MPH

june 2019 pulser magazine

0 TO 60 IN 2.85 SECONDS+

exceptional power, and it handles so well that you’ll probably never see this car’s limits outside of a racetrack.

This Chevy has an attractive cabin with comfortable seats, some user-friendly technology, and an above-average predicted reliability rating. It gets subpar fuel economy estimates compared to cars in the class with smaller engines, and some

2019 ROAD & TRACK PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR

rivals offer more features.

Those are the biggest knocks against the Corvette.

Should I Buy the Chevrolet Corvette?

The Corvette delivers outstanding performance at a lower starting price than many of its peers, making it a great value in the luxury sports car class. However, that doesn’t mean it’s the only car worth

Corvette

considering. The Porsche Cayman and Jaguar F-Type are both fine choices. You might also consider another Chevy sports car: the Camaro.

Should I Buy a New or Used Chevrolet Corvette?

The 2019 Corvette belongs to a generation that began with the 2014 model year. The only change for 2019 is the addition of the 755-horsepow-

er ZR1 model. The 2018 model gained standard HD Radio, but there weren’t any other notable changes. The Grand Sport trim was introduced to the lineup for 2017, and the Z06 debuted for 2016. The small number of changes across the years means you could potentially save thousands of dollars by shopping for a used Corvette that’s not very different from

the new model.

How Much Does the Chevrolet Corvette Cost?

The Corvette Stingray’s base price is around $55,500 (Sh5.5 million), putting it on the low end of the spectrum among luxury sports cars. The Corvette Grand Sport starts at around $65,500 (Sh6.5 million), and the Corvette Z06 starts at $79,495 (Sh8

million). The most expensive model is the Corvette ZR1, which has a starting price around $119,000 (Sh11.9 million). That’s in a bit of a no-man’s land for the class; only the Jaguar F-Type has a comparable top-trim price.

Most other cars in the class have top trims that cost far more or far less than $120,000 (Sh12 million).

Pros

Breathtaking power Obscenely good handling Comfortable, supportive seats

COURTESY

Large trunk Cons

Lower mpg ratings

than some class rivals

Some tech features don’t work as well as they could

— Source: U.S. News and Cody Trotter

pulser magazine june 2019

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MOTORMOTO - PhiLiP nGotho

the seCond hand‌ W

purchasing a preoWned car, Whether from a car dealer or car yard reQuires caution and critical sampling of eVery detail

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ith so many car yards in town, the second hand car business seems to be booming. Of course purchasing a pre-owned car can be good value for money while at the same time, it can turn into a murky business if you are dealing with cons.

Just what are some of the things you need to know or do before you think of sealing such a deal?

First, you need to have a clear understanding as to how much you want to spend. It also has to be a car that meets the intention of buying it.

This means one needs to research widely and have a basic understanding of cars. With so much information online on car prices, you are guaranteed to come out with the best bet.

You will need your negotiation skills to make a good bargain. most of the talk should be governed by the age of the car as well as the condition. If it is a locally used car, then you can be sure it comes at a high ownership cost. get to know the car ownership history. In case you are importing a used car, then know what the law requires of the same. In Kenya, a

june 2019 puLSer magazIne

car should not be more than eight years old.

While purchasing the car, consider its make, availability of spare parts and fuel consumption. It can be a challenge getting spare parts for some car models in Kenya, so you need to be prepared for the extra burden. get proper and detailed paper work. Who is the previous owner? What is the car’s history?

Is the car accident free? Could it have been stolen? Is the logbook original and genuine? get an expert like a mechanic who has no connection with the previous owner if it is a local purchase and have them inspect the car from the engine, its transmission, suspension, tires and everything in the interior and exterior.

Take the car for a test drive to ensure the mechanicals as well as other factors are functional and in good check.

Once you are satisfied with the deal, consult a friend or two who have experience on car matters to help countercheck.

The next move then will be to do the paper work on documents and payments. This includes a sale agreement contract, initiating logbook transfer, paying the transfer fees and purchase tax as well as getting car insurance.

COURTESY

FOOD — fork n awesome

I

COURTESY

s it just me or does lamb taste better the morning after?

The secret to making mouth-watering lamb chops or any barbeque meat for that matter is in its preparation. Marinate the meat the day before, even better, three days.

Why, you ask? Because it’s always going to be juicier and taste better the longer you marinate it.

This is caused by the acid in your marinade causing the tissue on the meat to break down, which allows more moisture to be absorbed. The breaking down of the meat by the vinegar and citrus juices in the marinade also tenderise it, making your protein easier to digest.

Other than that, marinating decreases, by up to 99 percent, the amount of cancer causing carcinogenic heterocyclic amines (HCAs) produced when the meat is cooked at high temperatures, like in grilling.

Adding rosemary to the marinade may even up the anti-cancer potential of your marinade even more. While research is unclear why marinades protect meat so much, the belief is that they act as a barrier against the high heat, or may reduce chemical precursors of carcinogens from the meat.

Grillin’ me softly 18

june 2019 pulser magazine

don’t overdo The acid in marinades also slow the growth of harmful bacteria, like listeria. However, never marinate meat at room temperature.

Although marinade can slow the growth of harmful bacteria, it cannot stop them completely, so marinate your meat in the fridge.

Also, don’t overdo the marinade.

Just use enough to coat the meat.

Too much marinade can break down the surface and turn the outer layer mushy.

Never reuse uncooked marinade.

If you are making a sauce, boil leftover marinade to kill bacteria (your safest bet for sauce is to reserve a portion of marinade before you add the raw meat).

But more important than the marinade is the quality of the meat.

And you know what goes down well with roast lamb? A good old glass of Moët & Chandon Imperial Rosé Brut Champagne.

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19

ReCipe — foRk n aweSoMe

ingredients For the whipped cream: 250ml can coconut milk/cream Sugar For the granola or seed and nut mix:

Walnuts Cashews almonds Sunflower seeds pumpkin seeds Hemp seeds Desiccated coconut For the fresh fruits:

Strawberries Blueberries raspberries

Procedure To make the vegan whipped cream, place your can of

coconut milk in the fridge for at least six hours (overnight for better results). Open the can, scoop out the top solidified coconut (disregard the water underneath. If you are using coconut cream, you can use the whole can). add sugar to the coconut cream and whip together with a hand mixer.

If using the seed and nut mix, pour them into your food processor/grinder, and pulse just a few times until the nuts are rustically chopped but still chunky.

To assemble, layer your berries, whipped cream and granola/ seed and nut mix in a glass as desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy.

notes

no measurements are required in this recipe as you layer depending on your liking. If you like more fruit, use more fruit. If you enjoy extra crunch, add more granola or nuts. If you like things extra creamy, be generous with the whipped cream!

PerfeCt veGan Parfait 20

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COURTESY

pulser magazine june 2019

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hot of the month — Margaret Ngenya

Gin Ideal wilberforce okwiri

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june 2019 pulser magazine

hot of the month

Mayonde

With hits on top of music charts, the gorgeous and sassy team up of Mayonde, Gin Ideal and Trina now on tour as Triple Threat are all the buzz

P

ulser: You are arguably the hottest female musicians in town, both individually and as a touring group. Does this excite you?

Gin Ideal: Of course. We’re the hottest tour group in town and that is why we are the Triple Threat. I am not just talking about looks, but also professionalism and talent.

Mayonde: Well, Kenya has lots of beautifully talented female acts and we are grateful to be counted among the number.

Trina: I believe we’re all beautiful women in our own way. We’re not entirely a girl group, but a group of girls who’ve come together to make a powerful impact in music.

The Triple

Turn to pgs 24& 25

Threat pulser magazine june 2019

23

hOT OF The MOnTh — MaRGaRet nGenYa

From pgs 22 & 23

pulser: How did this idea of working together as a tour group come about? mayonde: It was an amazing idea hatched by the phenomenal team at Taurus musik. They approached me to join their artistes Trina mungai and gin Ideal on the Triple Threat Tour.

Trina: Besides, I personally already had a long lasting and existing relationship with mayonde so it only felt right to have her complete the package. gin Ideal: This is something that has never been done before, locally and so when the label agreed to approach mayonde to join us on tour, she gladly agreed. It has been an amazing cruise.

wIlbERfORCE OkwIRI

Trina

pulser: Let’s discuss the success of the collabos and also the solo projects each is pursuing. mayonde: The reception has been amazing. I think there’s a real hunger to see women working together and cheering each other on. I for one love collaborating and working with these two amazing women even as I pursue my own solo projects. my project purple ep came out last year and has opened quite a few doors for me in the pop arena. I’ll be dropping a few more singles from it during the year. gin Ideal: The point is to have us do the Triple Threat tours while still keeping the focus on our solo career. We respect each other’s solo schedules and so we keep our calendars clear for each other’s comfort.

Trina: It’s been an amazing experience so far because I’m learning and growing in the industry. making music has always been an ever growing dream alongside working with artistes locally and internationally. pulser: How is it like performing together, both doing the collabos and also supporting each other in individual stage work?

Trina: I love my ladies! mayonde and gin are both amazing and are incredibly talented. Supporting each other comes so naturally. We work and flow like water. gin Ideal: It’s amazing working together. personally I haven’t done any collabo with my girls, but you can be sure this will happen pretty soon. mayonde and Trina are full of energy and talented. mayonde: It’s so much fun working together. There’s so much flavour and sass that everyone brings to the table. plus, we get to travel together and share our music with the world. I love putting on a show with these ladies.

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hOT OF The MOnTh gin Ideal: It’s amazing working together. personally I haven’t done any collabo with my girls, but you can be sure this will happen pretty soon. mayonde and Trina are full of energy and talented. mayonde: It’s so much fun working together. There’s so much flavour and sass that everyone brings to the table. plus, we get to travel together and share our music with the world. I love putting on a show with these ladies. pulser: What are your individual strengths that have helped this tour group grow to everyone’s recognition? gin Ideal: The greatest thing is the unique touch that comes with each supporting the other. It is like a learning process borrowing from each other’s individual strength. I think it’s pretty fun too touring with these girls. I, especially love how they engage the crowds. mayonde: personally, I think my individual strength is my personality. I like to create an atmosphere of love and sisterhood.

Trina: good question. I’d say the strengths that stand out in each of us is stage presence and awareness as well as audience participation and engagement. Our personalities also blend well in front of the camera. pulser: What are some of the biggest benefits you have had working as a group as opposed to being solo? mayonde: Having your sisters there to cheer you on and vice versa. also, being on the road as an artiste can be lonely. It’s nice to have friends with you who can support you and give you a hand when you need it.

Trina: as a group we bounce energy of one another so you can get more courageous and stronger because you have that support system attached to you as an individual. Being solo is equally a strength and I believe we can all hold our own as well. gin Ideal: everyone has their special and unique traits and bringing this together on stage gets everyone the best experience you can ever have. It’s like working as each other’s support system…energy galore. pulser: If this was Destiny’s Child from back in the day, who would be who? mayonde: I think every one of us will say we’re Beyoncé. everyone wants to be Beyoncé !

So let’s just say we’re all the Queen Bee. Trina: (Laughs) We’re all Beyoncé I’ll tell you that. ginIdeal: Well said. Beyoncé , Beyoncé, Beyoncé. pulser: What are the greatest lessons you learn from each other?

Trina: I’ve learned to always shine my light and never dim it for anyone from mayonde and I’ve learned to always keep on my hustle from gin. ginIdeal: mayonde always has a smile that makes you feel all is good. Trina is always

checking on everyone to ensure all is well. good vibes all the way. mayonde: Trina has taught me how to see the humour in things and laugh more and gin has taught me how to be stylish and keep my fashion game on point. pulser: Describe each other, in character and in social life? mayonde: Trina is funny. She cracks me up with her wit and humour and it’s such a blast hanging out with her. She loves to dance and I love how friendly she is. gin is a sweetheart and has a peaceful and calm vibe about her that makes me feel at ease. She’s also such a fashionista and always kills it with her looks. ginIdeal: Trina is fun and sweet. mayonde is also sweet and always warm. I literally have a blast with these two beauties on and off stage.

Trina: mayonde is beautiful, funny, fun to be around and a great conversationalist. gin is a great time too and has an amazing connection with her genius fans. They’re both fun and outgoing socially as well. pulser: Who is considered the baby in the team and who is the ‘mother’ and why? ginIdeal: I hope I don’t get strangled from the throat for saying this. I view Trina as a younger sister. She has such a cheeky young fun personality. mayonde has a way of handling situation to make sure we all fell she got us.

Trina: I’m probably the baby in the team just by virtue of my age. I am not sure who the mother would be. perhaps mayonde and gin are the aunties. That’s how I’d put it. mayonde: Well, I think we’re still getting to know each other at this point as a group on tour and forming chemistry. pulser: are you working on some new collabos together? ginIdeal: Yes, we are. mayonde: We definitely want to release a song together to perform on the rest of the Triple Threat Tour. So look out for our next hit soon.

Trina: True. mayonde and I are even thinking about an ep collaboration together. pulser: Being the new face of african crazy-sexy-cool, urban girl group, what is your perspective on where urban contemporary music is going? mayonde: The Kenyan music industry has been so male dominated for so long, it’s time for the ladies to shine and the easiest way to do that is through collaborating with each other. The industry is growing and changing and Kenyans are realising we have to support our own as well.

Trina: my thoughts towards urban contemporary music is we have a chance to shift our music levels and quality. I love Kenya and our music. We have a lot of potential to go higher than ever before and I hope I can be a great pioneer for this goal. Kenya to the world! ginIdeal: I believe Kenyan music is claiming

its space in the world. It is embraced and respected by many in this new age. pulser: Looking at the east african scene where we don’t seem to have so many female secular singers, what do you think will break this glass ceiling? gin Ideal: I think it is sometimes more challenging for the female than it is for the male hence the more reason we should support each other as female artistes. mayonde: Consistency, collaboration and great music.

Trina: I think it will take us. We can break this ceiling. Don’t believe me, just watch this space. pulser: Do you think africa is ready for you? mayonde: I don’t know if africa is ready for all this sauce. We’re about to blow your minds.

Trina: I actually feel like africa has been waiting for us. africa is ready for us and even individually, we want to make africa proud. gin Ideal: It’s that time. In fact, it’s now or never! I’d say its africa to the world. pulser: You come out as sassy and cool and with such an appeal to male fans. Does this flirter the boy child wherever you go? gin Ideal: This is part of the art, you know… mayonde: Honestly. I don’t understand what that means. I will pass.

Trina: This question has made me laugh so much. Boy child and male fans are interesting.

I’ll just leave it at that. pulser: What is the common misconception people have had about you? mayonde: I think most people think that I’m signed to Taurus musik because I collaborate a lot with their artistes. people also think we are now officially a group because of the tour, but we are all individual artistes just collaborating.

Trina: Some people think we can’t be approached because we’re too pretty and that’s not true. We are so friendly and very approachable. We love interacting with people. as an individual, maybe that I have light skin syndrome. people categorise me as a light skin and assume it comes with a certain air to it but I don’t even see myself that way and I enjoy being around all kinds of people. gin Ideal: not any that I can pick out really… pulser: How do you keep the focus as solo acts?

Trina: The passion and the fire keeps me going. music has always been in my blood, so I believe I will be doing this for the rest of my life until I take my last breath. music is life. gin Ideal: at the end of the day we are individual acts and not a group. each of us has to represent their brand. mayonde: Keeping sight of your goals and maintaining consistency in terms of putting out content and building a profile with live performance and media appearances.

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coverstory —Pulser writer

In this no holds barred exclusive interview with Pulser, Africa’s top rapper Khaligraph Jones aka The OG opens up about continental hip hop, politics, critics, settling down with his fiancée and becoming a father

Chronicles of the

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coverstory

COURTESY

M

aking way to his Kilimani, Nairobi, uptown office, we are ushered by his manager, Francis, who is a former school mate and a friend. Another man with ripped six-pack abs whom we easily pass as his security too is on standby.

All looks calm. This is Blu Ink, Khaligraph Jones aka The OG’s new office where he has been running his music business since he relocated from Buru Buru late last year.

We are welcomed into his studio room where he allows us in with a jovial embrace. In this afternoon, he looks pretty easy, relaxed in a white designer tracksuit and a matching T-shirt. On the carpet is a work out weights that he has been using to keep fit. A little beat is playing from the mix machine.

There is nothing I have wanted more in life than to have a baby, my baby, flesh and blood. Since I got that news from hospital that my girl is pregnant, it totally changed me.

pulser magazine june 2019

Turn to pgs 28 & 29

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The title ofthe album is something I came up with in High School. That was back in 2009. I told myself that I will never put up an album that does not tell my story. coverstory

—Pulser writer

COURTESY

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coverstory

From pgs 26 & 27

Looking at The OG from this rich neighbourhood where you can almost see the entire magnificent hood from his office window, one would hardly recall that this is the same guy who was toiling down the streets of the Kayole shanty neighbourhood three years ago. The fuel guzzler packed outside his yard is a different picture from the bicycle he was riding then just like this apartment whose worth can be translated into the millions. He has only been in the game for about five years, a short span of time in which he has become one of the biggest hip hop heads in Africa having won the Best Rap Act in the 2018 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA) during the annual ceremony held at Dallas, Texas. And having released his debut album Testimony 1990 about two months ago, his eminent take over as Kenya’s hip hop face has left no doubt that this is the new face of Kenyan music. He knows it. More than ever, he acknowledges that his time to make a difference has come.

Question: What informed this upgrade move to get the Blu Ink offices from Buru Buru to Kilimani?

OG: People have to progress. You can’t stay in the same place forever. This is where God has put us now. Back in Buru Buru, everything was moving smoothly and clients were still many as they are now but we moved because we needed change. The people we interact with most in this business live around

this environment and that makes business simple. One thing that I must make clear is that this is my Blu Ink office where I have my office and management team, my studio and my music video operations centre. This is not a commercial recording studio but a place where I record my own music. This is for my business operations.

Q: How do you respond to artistes who call and want to come here to record their own music?

OG: My management deals with such people. An artiste needs a place where they can get creative. Sometimes if you don’t do so, you reach a place where you feel that you have stagnated. I have seen very big musicians whose lifestyles do not look as they should. Khaligraph Jones started his thing the other day and I’m only trying to be organised and level headed. I feel that where I live and how I do so must be a reflection of the respected artiste I am right now.

Q: How do you keep this focus, day in, day out?

OG: I work with a very visionary team.

I keep a close circle of likeminded individuals, people who work for me or work with me. My manager was with me in the same High School, my personal assistant is someone we grew up together and my secretary is my sister.

As an artiste and a businessman, you must have a focused team that works with you round the clock, people who

help you to secure the path and ensure that you don’t stagnate.

Q: Is this one thing you think many artistes who have stagnated fail to factor?

OG: If one has no vision or does not follow that passion then how can they keep the spirit? There are people I used to look up to back then. People I wanted to be like but now, the stats look different. I have come to find out that many people live for the hype and once it’s gone, they are left with nothing.

Before the hype, one must be directed by passion. I am passionate about music irrespective of what someone might think about me. I am not here to be seen.

All you see comes from the heart. If you have that, the OG becomes the OG. I keep telling people not to fall for what you see on TV about me because behind the scenes, there is a lot of effort we put out there.

Q: How do you rate African hip hop now that you are king on the throne?

OG: We are making proper progress and the right strides towards the right direction. However, all African hip hop cannot be put in the same category as what we have in Nigeria and South Africa, the other two music power houses after Nairobi, is different. Closer home, I can say forks never used to take the rap genre seriously and before Khaligraph started popping three years ago, we only had Octopizzo and King turn to pgs 30 & 31

pulser magazine june 2019

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coverstory —Pulser writer

embrace African content than theirs.

Even the movies they are making is stuff purely made for them as much as they are trying to make it look like they care about Africa. We need to mind our own business and embrace our own art as Africa. It’s only after that when the rest can fall in place.

From pgs 28 & 27

Q: What will it take for us as an industry to get our art to that point where the world hears us?

OG: I was in America the other day and that is when I discovered that we have a long way to go as an industry. I feel like we have the potential but we are not there yet. There are many factors that needs to be put in place.

One is basic support. Kenyan people are very choosy. It’s hard to convince these people no matter how good you are.

Q: Is that so?

OG: Fact. We can’t all become superstars. The moment a radio presenter thinks I have more followers on Instagram than Khaligraph, that when I call him for interview I have to dictate how the interview goes then it’s all sh*t. The artiste is the superstar because he is the one who makes the music and has the limelight. If we all knew our positions, we would have a lot of respect for each other. As a media personality, you will also get respect and people will be coming to your interviews. You see, it does not happen to me because I am the OG but I have seen artistes get criticised by TV presenters on live TV. People have this sh*t scattered everywhere. Everyone is doing sh*t randomly. (snaps).

Q: Are you talking about an industry so segmented…?

OG: We have this culture where we just criticise. See, there is positive criticism and there is hate. People here will try to compare Khaligraph Jones and Lil Wayne while we know that this is stuff from two worlds apart. There is so much competition

Q: Does it matter that big names from America are coming down to Africa to record collabos with celebs from down here?

OG: Can I be very honest with you? This is a message that needs to go there. America may appreciate the stuff we are doing here but there is never gonna be a time when they will

Kaka as the only acts. I mean we had Bamboo and the likes of Abbas but that died down. Masses never took rapping seriously and we need to convince them if they have to take us seriously.

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between artistes and deejays, writers and TV personalities… Everyone wants to be the superstar.

june 2019 pulser magazine

Q: Let’s take it up from back where it all started…1990…

OG: Some people think this was served on a silver platter...That Khaligraph Jones woke up one day and released Yego and blew up. I recorded my first song in Primary School back in 2005. It was called Gospel. Back then I used to call myself Brio or something (laughs). I was in a group together with Hope Kid because we were living in the same hood. That is what nobody remembers. I used to go freestyle was WAPI (Word and Pictures). See, its different when you are performing as a famous star from a nobody. I recall getting booed at a concert I was doing at St. Paul’s University back in 2011 as they didn’t understand this foreign sound. I had to go through this to be OG. It has been a journey full of hardships and tribulations. I have seen people giving up along the way as I kept pushing.

Always keep pushing!

Q: You are saying consistence is the name of the game?

OG: This is the thing, a lot of people think that when you go to studio and record the first song you must blow up. People don’t understand that this thing takes patience and consistence.

For me to have my first single hit, I had recorded 700 songs. I used to take the music to people and they would tell me that this is sh*t. I was like until the day they will accept me for who I am, I ain’t stopping. You have to give this thing your all. You saw that picture of me on a bicycle. That was in 2012, just the other day. I don’t have anything. I was in Bondo and people didn’t know me. See, passion will equip you with everything necessary to open doors.

But if you are doing this to blow up and become famous that will never happen.

coverstory OG: It is expected of me as a public figure to add my voice on everything public interest. In the US, you will see Kanye West out there endorsing Donald Trump but it’s different here. In civilised societies such as America, people don’t take such things personal. It never affects the artistes in terms of music. I have sentiments too as a Kenyan citizen but in a third world country it’s hard to openly speak about how you feel about some things. I try as much as I can, I try to refrain from politics. I was approached by a bunch of people, politicians, to endorse them and campaign for them during the last political campaigns but I didn’t want to put my brand into that.

Q: Let us talk family…

OG: We live for family. I was raised in an environment where family was everything. We have seen households where when one grows up, they don’t care about their grassroots anymore but that is not me. Our family members are close. I mean, I embrace this even as I start my own.

Q: That is the juice…Tell us about your woman since this is now in public?

OG: Starting my own family is something I always looked forward to in life. I have a girl whom I want to call my own. I have a baby who is about to be born. In fact, by the time this interview will be out, the baby will be here. I am so excited.

COURTESY

Q: Is that why you called your debut album Testimony 1990?

OG: The title of the album is something I came up with in High School. That was back in 2009. I told myself that I will never put up an album that does not tell my story. Releasing it, I felt like it was time. It took me seven years to get this album out. Since 2012, we had over 600 songs to pick the best 16 songs from. A lot of work and sacrifices had to be put in this. Basically, I am happy. My album is my story. All the songs in the album are my story.

Q: Do critics work you up?

OG: If you are talking about all that social media attacks and diss tracks then I will say that this is something I always choose not to handle. Sometimes I even post diss tracks that were directed to me on say Instagram for

people to hear. I mean, I too used to do diss tracks on guys like P Unit, Avril, Marya… (laughs). I think when you grow up and mature your perspective of seeing things changes.

Q: So you take no offence?

OG: Absolutely not. I totally understand them as they will grow up someday. With music, you never take anything personal. I mean, this is like politics. I have had instances where I have had confrontations with the likes of Eric Omondi and Vera but that ends at that and we are friends end of the day.

Q: Talking about politics, do you think musicians have a role to play and if so, what is your stand on the current situation, say in terms of the current government and corruption?

Q: This is your queen, right?

OG: Yeah man, and she is all what matters. I don’t care what people say out there. People judge even when they don’t know me personally. If you judge me from what you see in my videos, then you know nothing about me. That is your problem. My woman knows me. She knows what I am capable of. She knows every truth about me because I have opened up to her more than I have opened up to anyone else.

Q: Sounds like you are pretty tight…

OG: I mean that’s the thing. She accepts me for whom I am. Whatever people say does not matter to me anymore. I am taking care of her the way I should. Anything else becomes sidelines and total nonsense. One thing I should say is that when you find someone you really love, she gives you real discipline and gives life a different meaning. I go home to her. I am working hard day and night because of my family.

Q: Must be a great feeling thinking about the coming buddle of joy, right?

OG: There is nothing I have wanted more in life than to have a baby, my baby, flesh and blood.

Since I got that news from hospital that my girl is pregnant, it totally changed me. I am happy and excited. I am in my new zone now. I am a very happy person lately. These are happy times.

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h0t in africa

COURTESY

— Margaret Ngenya

It’s Madjozi Show 32

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After her Kenyan visit, South African pop singer and rapper Sho Madjozi gets her first BET Awards nod to share the international stage with world’s greats; Cardi B, Drake, Beyoncé and Travis Scott

I think it is Africa’s time on the world stage right now when it comes to music and I have never shied away from my culture and language.

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he verdict is out. The BET Awards 2019 nominees have been announced. And there is no Kenyan nor East African musician in the coveted list.

Set to take place at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on June 23, the world will have its eyes on the top contenders Cardi B, Drake, Beyoncé and Travis Scott. Cardi B leads the nominations with seven slots; two nods for Video of the Year for Money and Please Me, two for the Best Collaboration for her singles Please Me alongside Bruno Mars, and I Like It, Album of the Year, Coca-Cola Viewers’ Choice Award and Best Female Hip-Hop Artiste. It is her moment of glory and it is understandable as her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, has been the hot vibe all year.

Drake is Cardi B’s close rival. He is head-tohead with her for Video of the Year for his Nice For What music video as well as in the Viewers’ Choice category for his single In My Feelings. Aside from this, Drake has nominations under Best Male Hip-Hop Artiste and Best Collaboration for Sicko Mode with Travis Scott.

Not to be left out is Beyoncé who is nominated under the Best Female R&B/Pop Artiste category besides being nominated alongside husband Jay-Z, under Best Group and Video of the Year for their Apesh*t music video and Album of the Year for Everything is Love.

But closer home, the South Africans, Malians and Nigerians will be holding it down for the continent. Top Nigerian pop stars Burna Boy and Mr Eazi, South Africa’s AKA as well as Mali’s (France’s) Aya Nakamura have been nominated in the Best International Act. Teniola Apata, also a Nigerian singer and Sho Madjozi, the fastest-rising South Africa pop star and rapper are up for the Best New International Act – (Viewers’ Choice) award.

And it is Sho Madjozi, the young, beautiful and versatile singer Pulsers back at home will be following most thanks to her Kenyan connection following her memorable recent visit in Nairobi.

Strange as it might sound, while visiting Nairobi during her late last year’s concert, few knew Sho Madjozi was so versatile that she could sing in Swahili. She had just recorded her Swahili track Huku, a massive hit that was embraced by her East African fans as she secured good following here as one of the most adored rising female stars in Africa.

“Coming to perform in Nairobi is a dream come true. I made Huku, my Swahili single and just hoped it would be heard and take me to East Africa. I have no (music) label pushing me and so the song just travelled through word of mouth and eventually got to Kenyan radios. That is very exciting,” she told Pulser back then.

“Huku is a playful song about this boy I

really liked, a Tanzanian boy who didn't like me back. It's only now that he tells me he liked me all along, and I'm like lakini hukuniambia (you never told me)! Problem is one of my favourite songs from early in my career. I made it in collaboration with DJ Maphorisa. It is the song that made me really famous in my home province. I was just being a carefree black girl and asserting my independence. All my songs are about that to a degree. Right now, I'm working on an album and on throwing a massive concert in my home town,” the rather jovial and social singer with a high fashion sense - that speaks of her African culture opened up.

“I think it is Africa's time on the world stage right now when it comes to music and I have never shied away from my culture and language. I also make music in the time of ‘Gqom’, which is such an amazing genre. I mostly rap on that but I have also done trap and I’m also working on an Afro-beat sound,” she said during the exclusive interview.

Ironically, growing up the vocally endowed beauty never thought she would go into music.

“I wanted to be a politician or a writer. I became a musician by mistake. I was broke but knew that I could write so I decided to write raps and sell them to artistes. Okmalumkoolkat (local musician) heard my flows and thought I should rap for myself. He featured me on his hit song, Gqi and the rest is history,” remarked the 26-year-old singer and rapper who released her debut album, Limpopo Champions League, last year.

“Since, I have been very consistent with my brand. I always do Madjozi braids. I always wear ‘Xibelani’ and bright colours, and I only wear kicks. I've created a very distinct identity.

I think young artistes should make sure they bring something into the game that no one else is doing. Once you're in, staying in is about working damn hard.”

As it seems, 2019 is Sho Madjozi’s big breakthrough year. The young star made international headlines early this year after Vogue featured her on their Vogue World 100 list of people to watch in 2019 this after being named the ‘Most Innovative’ fashion star during last year’s South Africa’s Style Awards in Johannesburg.

We are talking about the coveted list of global influencers and icons anticipated to reach super stardom in the world of fashion, music, culture and design. And so besides music, fashion is taking her place.

And talking about her fashion sense, a theme she describes as fearless, beautiful and bright, she concluded: “I'm inspired by Xitsonga fashion of the 1990s and early 2000s. I just want to look the way my mom and her friends looked when they were younger.”

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FiTness

— MaRGaRet nGenYa

fROM hIP-SwInGInG TO STOMaCh-GYRaTInG, ZUMba OnE InSanE fITnESS ExERCISE wE all nEEd

COURTESY

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utting in some dance moves heavily invested around the hips and with step counts as the accompaniment does not sound like a serious gym practice. not more than a party thing, right? I mean, jamming to salsa and flamenco beats sounds like a real party thing and that is why nairobians are going crazy about zumba. pretty so, zumba is now the best work out regime especially for those people who actually don’t like to exercise. It’s like a workout-in-disguise. It is both a physical and a mental fitness activity. most of the dance moves in zumba targets the hips and the body midsection and this helps to strengthen one’s core. The dance moves a purposely designed to enhance one’s flexibility. a good instructor will insist on one having some good leg work and that is why jumps and lunges are part of the choreographed movements. This helps to work the quads and hamstrings. why rock to Zumba zumba is a combination of exercise and controlled training. It helps burn fat and calories as it keeps your metabolism in high gear.

1

2 moving to the beat of samba, salsa, mambo and all those others help in working unique muscle groups. It gets their joints into unusual movements and stretching hence reducing tension and improving body posture.

3 z umba being a social exercise helps boost one’s confidence both with people and also with your body.

4 not all exercises do reduce anxiety and in fact, being in a gym can be both an intimidating and frustrating experience. zumba gives the opposite of this as it is a social exercise that leads to the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters that help eliminate stress hormones in the body.

5 It helps tone the body as it engages every muscle group and in a smooth and efficient way.

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iNSaNe oN zUMBa

TRAVEL - THORN MULLI

dance with the 36

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TRavel

ThE wIldbEEST MIGRaTIOn SEaSOn IS hERE. thorn TRavElS TIPS YOU On hOw YOU Can danCE wITh ThE wIldEbEESTS wIThIn YOUR wallET’S REaCh

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f you live in nairobi, masai mara is literally in your backyard. However, few locals have visited this world-acclaimed wildlife reserve. more so,only a few have witnessed the annual great Wildbeest migration spectacle – one of the seven world wonders. The general consensus is that the wildebeest migration is an expensive experience to attempt. However, here are a few hacks to ensure you catch all the action when the migration comes calling

First, visit the HerdTracker App to ensure you

pinpoint the exact location of migrating herds to allow you plan your safari well. This free app is fed with up-to-date information as to where the herds are by a variety of lodges, camps and field guides in Tanzania and Kenya for your benefit.

Travel in a group and share costs. If none in the group has a four-wheel-drive Sport utility Vehicle (SuV), look into car hire services.

Compact SuVs costs range from Sh6,000 for daily use. please remember to read the dotted line in your car rental terms.

Self-driving means your comfort is

dependent on you. Leave early to allow you enough rest before your full-day game drive. remember to pack for comfort including items such as cooler boxes to keep your supplies cold and fresh, for instance any canned beer or wines.

Book accommodation outside the park

preferably in narok Town – it will help cut on costs. Besides, being youthful, even if just at heart, means you can always drive back at night and party in one of the vibrant clubs – for those who care to. There are several public campsites in the reserve, and the adjacent mara Triangle. However, while camping is generally the most affordable option, it can attract add-on costs such as ranger fees.

Depart for the river crossing at daybreak

ThInGS TO dO In ThE MaRa

1. enjoy thrilling masai mara safaris 2. nature walks in the mara 3. Set up camp in the bush 4. Immerse yourself in maasai culture by visiting an authentic maasai Village 5. enjoy a balloon safari over the mara 6. Take to the saddle on a horseback safari 7. Celebrate the sunset with maasai warriors 8. See the Wildebeest migration

when it is still cool and comfortable to drive.

Drop by rex restaurant and its ilk (or elk) situated 400m from the Sekenani gate for refreshments. This casual roadside shack has a few tables out the back where they serve breakfast, home-baked bread, and veggies with either rice or ugali.

pay your park fees and savour the

biggest wildlife spectacle on earth.

Citizen adults pay Sh1,000 to access the park while a vehicle with five seats or less is charged Sh400. If you can, kindly bring a guide acquainted with the park to avoid too much time wasting arising from getting lost in the wild.

COURTESY

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out& about

- LUcia MUSa anD MaRGaRet nGenYa

PLEASURES OF prague advEnTURE IS nOT alwaYS abOUT fUn, bUT alSO ThE hISTORY and landMaRkS ThaT MakES a dESTInaTIOn UnIQUE

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out& about

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f you like visiting historic cities and fancy everything gothic, then prague, the capital and as well the largest city in the Czech republic should be on your bucket list. We are talking about the fourth most visited european city after London, paris and rome that records 8.5 million international visitors, annually.

This is one beautiful and interesting city that has charmed millions of visitors from all over the world mostly for its historic and cultural attractions that got uneSCO listing it as one of the world heritage sites. It is also a political and economic centre of central europe. among the main attractions include the prague Castle, the Old Town Square whose memorable landmark is the prague astronomical clock, Charles Bridge, petřín Hill and Vyšehrad. amazing so, prague has more than 10 major museums that have numerous theatres, cinema halls and galleries. The city is safe and the locals are kind to visitors.

Getting around Prague The city is made up of 10 districts, which are distinct in nature.

One can use public transport, which is excellent and affordable.

The options are many, from using trams, buses and underground metro. a ticket valid for 75 minutes

goes for 26kc, which is about KSH100. You can also opt to walk as you enjoy the undeniable beautiful sights. However, be ready for the crowds.

Language english is commonly used, especially around the tourism areas but it doesn’t hurt to learn a few Czech pleasantries?

Food and drinks You didn’t travel all the way to Czech to eat ‘ugali’ and ‘nyama choma’, right. In this delightful city, you expect sumptuous delicacies.

You can try the popular palačinky, trdelník, Vepřo-knedlo-zelo or guláš if you can’t run away from meat.

This is one city that loves alcohol so this is not something an alcohol lover should worry about.

If you are that ordinary nairobi guy, you can choose to do the old thing; grab your drinks in liquor stores and fill up while indoors to save some cash…then hit the club. also, avoid pubs that list prices in euros for the obvious reason!

Weather July is usually the hottest month in prague with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F). January is the coldest at-1°C (30°F). The wettest month is may with an average of 69mm of rain.

puLSer magazIne june 2019 COURTESY

COURTESY

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eat0ut - fred kagonye

COURTESY

Coffee and book

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a v a , t h e largest coffee chain in East Africa, has managed to create a coffee drinking culture in the region over the years.

And now as it seems, there is nothing more relaxing than sitting on those luxury lounges doing a sip as you socialise with a friend or get indulged on the internet thanks to the Wi-Fi presence in most of the outlets.

There is more!

Recently, Java House Lavington, the perfect lair where you are guaranteed of serenity and warmth, introduced a new phenomenal; a book reading culture.

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june 2019 pulser magazine

Complete with a reading lounge and a book shelf stuffed with the chains books, the joint fuses in the new Nairobi urban eateries lifestyle where art and social engagement ambiance have become key, and now with an added reading culture attempt. And how good with everyone out here trying to join a book club.

On spot still are the traditional artistic wall paintings and puzzling interior dĂŠcor to die for.

Location: James Gichuru Road, Nairobi Closes 10pm.

Nature: Cosy, casual and good for groups.

Common picks: Coffee, fruit salads and quick fix full meals.

hotspot - Tracy Gesare

COURTESY

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all e eing ay up th Praf w o e s h est- st floor in W eight Towers ique clas ame n mukh u with u ak time c o re y b es welllike elcommes. It is urse. ll the lay of a w h t t i o a an w isp it of c ing d and g staur laces he re od, chalk e time lim vourite p an amus t , f the i b airo rs of wo hout th f your fa uns and iew o v N l , u s f i land e interio hool, wit e one o oards. P t eaut day. the b uring the ave heigh n -lik f sc has to b blackb u o m o o y e o h o d d d e i r s r r s s r h g i o o t t e n h i u ff p t d a sk te in ns, d on ng o can urant ebria unts tle ba visiti u love pu displaye wine. resta s for a lit ou feel in erman st hat they cials d o e y n h m t a f s I ittici e cheese o ends of rea allow area if y the Spid fines of w t, play, so the a n y a g ik d ght w thou ogether l ows on tw r balcony or balcon y has ace in the co g line of e re sharin you h a t o e a o d t l d i t o u o d n p o i r t g d o i w o b t y u w t e ar ass y. The ou m the o p and no and stay up to th ple that esting pe books l g e Th ener away fro at high u an adult of living ther peo any inter variety of ause o y h bi gre a ec on e Nairo ever, sta are not t ne will b sole reas mes with sed how mook with viously b oung How he walls t everyo for the aying ga e surpri re is a n outs, ob or the y o m i-Fi tha ang ia. T ect f of pl s, the uld b phob hey trust e has no W e option . You wo ook buff n group h eak. Perf comt b f T h c u r a f t t a e a . h s c h s t d t t i e n is rt n ye ha ate a etitiv nd as le. Th here ay. Fo een o hand cialising u are all k hone aw t for intim heir comp playgrou o p d ise. S with, if yo put your ople. Grea ople on t urgitate g l ones e table eet if you el like pe ave all p to the re asua c y r e h e he v a very can m do not f that will ternative ess t g unl perhaps if you e games eks an al n i t e s me cting or of th ly that se too. sines ra fami s children d for a bu and inte n. date ot so goo drinking g sessio N to kin twor lead nch, that ed out ne am all-day), lu 2 1 chill o am t eakfast ( ffee. en: 7 Op Serves: brrinks and choe board inner, d e for t ed for y d Camgames sta the puns.

Unboxing Baobox

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Nairobi has not seen anything quite like this, not that we know of. It is the big buzz in town and even tourists have this cafĂŠ, at the top of their list as one of the must go-to places.

in my closet - ahadi wambui

Nesting with Nancie 44

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alking Kenyan fashion blogging big names, Nancie Mwai comes out as one of the celebrated names and it’s no wonder, she is scaling to international levels showcasing some of the biggest brands in the market.

She has a high fashion sense and thank goodness, she has the right curves and looks to go with it. Having started off with her blog, The Fashion Notebook, she evolved into vlogs and YouTube and now her Vlog Nancie Mwai is a to go to spot when you want updates and tips on all things lifestyle, travel, fashion, makeup and even career advice. In fact, she runs a fashion store christened Shop New Level.

The beauty and entrepreneur has a business degree from the United Stated International University (USIU). While many are stuck in the rut of being influencers, she has managed to branch out, evolving into a fully pledged businesswoman. And Pulser decided to take a look at her closet to get a feel of what makes Nancie tick.

COURTESY

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In MY ClOseT hat’s your favourite item in your closet? my Kimonos.

How would you describe your style?

It is all over the place. my style is dictated by my mood.

What is the best style advice you’ve ever gotten?

You don’t have to follow trends to be fashionable. a fashion quote you live by?

Dress like you’re going to see your worst enemy.

What is the most expensive clothing item you’ve ever bought?

Some open toe heels by an australian designer.

Shoes or bags?

Shoes.

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What are the three items you always have in your bag?

Carmex, Sunglasses, a liquid lipstick.

What item in your closet do you wear the most? my distressed denims What is the advice you would give to your younger self in terms of style? always do away with all the excessive accessories.

What is fashion to you? a form of expression.

What is your favourite places to shop?

Shop new Level If you could raid one person’s closet, whose would it be?

Bonang matheba.

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FASHION - PERIS WAMBUGU

The high-low, Afro print maxi dress will get you noticed at an outdoor urban event like The Koroga Festival. The matching tote bag will serve an ideal holding space for your bottles of wine, bitings, among other things.

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Dress: KSH6,500 Bag: KSH3,500

This shift dress, as styled, is my take on funky way to show up to Fashion High Tea - it serves as an unexpected twist.

Dress: KSH4,500

Celebrated Kenyan designer Achie Otigo, the face behind the classy urban fashion designs Fashion by Achie Otigo, steps up the game with a new collection, the Alter-sona 46

june 2019 pulser magazine

FASHION

Theme: The “Alter-sona theme is coined from altered personas that people would embody through their clothes.

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3/5. These blue numbers would definitely turn heads at a wedding; the former on a guest and the latter on a bridesmaid. They exude a fun-fused sex appeal. The royal blue, knee length, long sleeved dress is a head turner, while the ankle length dress with lime and fuscia floral patchwork is as classy as they come.

Fuscia Floral dress: KSH6,500 Royal Blue: KSH5,800

Turn to pgs 48&49

Alter-sona her pulser magazine june 2019

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FASHION - PERIS WAMBUGU

5/6. These blue numbers would definitely turn heads at a wedding; the former on a guest and the latter on a bridesmaid. They exude a fun-fused sex appeal. The royal blue, knee length, long sleeved dress is a head turner, while the ankle length dress with lime and fuscia floral patchwork is as classy as they come.

Fuscia Floral dress: KSH6,500 Royal Blue: KSH5,800 Shoes: Backyard Shoez

from pgs 46&49

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4 4/6. In case the event stretches to the wee hours, why not slip into something more minimalist yet daring as are these two looks. An asymmetrical, mini wrap skirt for those looking to show more skin or a pair of high-waisted pants if the night gets a tad chilly. The oversize hat brings sass to the look.

Hat: KSH5,500 Pants: KSH3,80

Alter-sona h 48

june 2019 pulser magazine

her

Photographer: Patrick Kamau (0727441554) Muse/make-up artist: Dorah Shikuku (0710155493)

FASHION

6

4/6. In case the event stretches to the wee hours, why not slip into something more minimalist yet daring as are these two looks. An asymmetrical, mini wrap skirt for those looking to show more skin or a pair of high-waisted pants if the night gets a tad chilly. The oversize hat brings sass to the look.

Hat: KSH5,500 Skirt: KSH3,500

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THE GLOW - DenniS_waGLaDYS

ThESE aRE SOME ThInGS EvERY naTURalISTa ShOUld knOw bEfORE COlOURInG ThEIR naTURal haIR

before colouring that hair

W

hat are some of the misconceptions people have about colouring natural hair? most naturalistas believe that colour makes hair fall.

Well, the truth is, it all depends on how you’ll take care of your coloured hair. remember colouring is a chemical process and it’s proper that one treats their hair weekly or twice a week and ensure that the hair is well moisturised at all times as dryness of the hair will cause breakage.

Is breakage after colouring real? What causes it and how can it be prevented?

Breakage is real and doesn’t really have a particular cause as many factors, from mechanical to scientific, can lead to breakage. Take for instance the choice of the comb you use to detangle the hair or just for normal combing to the choice of treatment you use. To prevent this, just have a low manipulation and low maintenance hair regime. Work on having a good hair protein-moisture balance on your treatment since lack of this may cause weakness-dryness which may lead to breakage.

Before and after-care tips in the colouring journey.

Conduct a detailed research on both the colour you want and the stylist who will

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colour way.

apply it.

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make sure the hair is at its best condition health wise before the colouring process.

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use coloured hair-friendly products after the colouring process and be particular on the choice of shampoo so as to prevent the color from fading. moisture… moisture…moisture! make sure you moisturise your hair frequently to avoid hair breakage and dryness. advice for naturalistas who want to go the

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The choice of colour and the colourist or hairstylist also go a long way in determining how well your colour will sit and if there will be no damage.

Just conduct your research well on the brand to use and for a stylist with the know-how.

Do not be afraid. You can wear your hair natural and still enjoy the world of coloured hair and get the best of both worlds.

BEAUTY TIPS - PERIS WAMBUGU

How to maintain your skin during the cold season

Swap your water-based moisturiser for

an oil-based one as it helps lock the moisture in. Use the moisturiser several times in a day for soft skin.

Stay hydrated to keep the dryness at bay.

Water is an excellent lubricant to keep your skin soft and flexible.

Avoid hot baths, however nice they may feel. Stick to lukewarm water to retain the moisture in your skin.

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Makeup tips Don’t choose to look dull just because the weather is cold.

Choose colours that complement the

weather. Use browns or greys to make your eyes pop in the cold season.

If you suffer from dry skin, apply a lotion before doing your makeup. Dab on just a little if your skin is oily.

Go for a creamy liquid foundation for a smooth finish. Just make sure it matches your skin tone.

Hair Tips These easy tips will help keep your hair healthy and strong:

Use lukewarm water to wash your hair.

Use a lot of conditioner for your hair.

Prevent dandruff with a regular oil

massage. Add a few drop of lemon juice to the oil and do this at least once a week.

Cover your hair when you go out as the cold wind damages the strands. Get regular trims to avoid split ends.

Outfits to clad in during the cold season Having a separate wardrobe for your outfits is advisable during the cold season.

Skinny Jeans are good for the day and

COURTESY

Glam past the gray

The cold season can get real dump especially when the gray clouds go heavy.

Here are tips on hair, makeup and general dressing to help you keep the glam through the season

the night, you can choose to layer the top with as many clothes for style and warmth.

Invest in a lovely cashmere sweater that complements your skirts, jeans, leather pants and formal trousers.

For casual evenings, pick up a leather jacket that will immediately transform any winter outfit.

The footwear is an obvious take that is boots: ankle-length or over the knees, anything that works.

TRavEl BooTS & BallS - fReD kaGonYe

Boys with Balls Victor Wanyama

The Kenyan skipper had a bad start in the epL season with an injury that denied him game time at Tottenham but as the season wore on, he became key for the club which eventually finished fourth and made it to the Champion’s League final.

Wanyama’s stats age: 27 Clubs played for: JmJ Youth academy nairobi City Stars aFC Leopards Helsingborg Beerschot Celtics Southampton Tottenham Caps won = 52 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 5

riyad mahrez - algeria

Sadio mane - Senegal

Fresh from winning the domestic treble in england, his lack of game time at City maybe a concern for algeria, but in the last league game, he showed why he’s the best bet the country has. mahrez’s Stats age: 28 Clubs played for: Le Havre Leicester City manchester City Caps won: 43 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 10

The Liverpool forward won the epL golden Boot alongside teammate mohammed Salah and pierre aubameyang. His exploits in all competitions in the 2018/2019 season will be key in Senegal's shot at the continental glory.

michael Olunga

COURTESY

michael Olunga moved from Spanish La Liga side girona to Japan Japan’s JSL. The move has been a revelation and the Stars need his goals if we are to progress from the group stages.

Olunga Olunga’ ’s stats Olunga’s age: 25 Clubs played for: Liberty Sports academy Tusker (loan) Thika united (loan)

gor mahia (loan) Djurgardens IF guizhou zhicheng girona (loan) Kashiwa reysol Caps won: 32 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 14

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mohammed Salah - egypt The Liverpool forward is the epL golden Boot winner for the second year running.

He has been a revelation this season in all competitions and egypt will be relying on him to win aFCOn which they are hosting.

Salah’s stats age: 26 Clubs played for: al mokawloon FC Basel Chelsea aS roma Liverpool Caps won: 84 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 46

andre ayew - ghana andre ayew plies his trades in Turkey for Fenerbahce. His brilliance will be all ghana needs to win the glory. andre ayew stats age: 27 Clubs played for: marsaille Lorient (loan) arles avignon (loan) Swansea City West Ham united Swansea City Fenerbahce Caps won: 93 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 18

mane's Stats age: 27 Clubs played for: metz red Bull Salzburg Southampton Liverpool Caps won: 64 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 16

Wilfried zaha - Ivory Coast zaha has been by far Crystal palace’s best player in the league and his countrymen are hoping that he will emulate the club form for his country. zaha’s Stats age: 26 Clubs played for: C. palace manutd C. palace (loan) Cardiff (loan) C. palace (loan) C. palace Caps won: 26 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels =3

alex Iwobi - nigeria The arsenal winger is what our Oga brothers need for glory after a disappointing show in the FIFa World Cup in russia.

Iwobi’s Stats age: 23 Clubs played for: arsenal Caps won: 38 goals scored for country at junior and senior levels = 6

movie — wINNIE MAKENA COURTESY

Dark Phoenix

Cast: Alexandra Shipp, Ato

Essandoh, Daniel Cudmore, Evan Jonigkeit, Evan Peters, James McAvoy, Jennifer Lawrence, Jessica Chastain, Kodi SmitMcPhee Director: Simon Kinberg Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi In Theatres: June 7, 2019 As the mutants go intergalactic, Dark Phoenix and its killer final trailer may prove that after 20 years of big ups and downs, all the X-Men really need is space.

The Secret Life of Pets 2

Men in Black:

Cast: Albert Brooks, Bobby

International Cast: Anatole Taubman, Andy Beckwith,

Ania Sowinski, Chris Hemsworth, Davina Sitaram, Emma Thompson, Jess Radomska, Kumail Nanjiani, Liam Neeson Director: F Gary Gray Genre(s): Action and Adventure, Comedy, Science Fiction and Fantasy In Theatres: June 14, 2019

T

he Men in Black have always protected the Earth from the scum of the universe. In this new adventure, they tackle their biggest, most global threat to date: a mole in the Men in Black organisation.

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Moynihan, Dana Carvey, Garth Jennings, Hannibal Buress, Harrison Ford, Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish Director: Chris Renaud, Jonathan del Val (co-director) Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Animation, Family In Theatres: Jun 7, 2019 The Secret Life of Pets 2 will follow summer 2016’s blockbuster about the lives our pets lead after we leave for work or school each day. Max faces some major changes after his owner Katie gets married and now has a child named Liam, up to the point he becomes overprotective. On a family trip to the countryside, Max meets a farm dog named Rooster, and both attempt to overcome his fears. Meanwhile, Gidget tries to rescue Max’s favourite toy from a cat-packed apartment, and Snowball sets on a mission to free a white tiger named Hu from a circus.

Toy Story 4

Cast: Tom Hanks, Tony Hale, Wallace Shawn, Annie Potts, Blake Clark, Bonnie Hunt, Bud Luckey, Christina Hendricks, Estelle Harris, Jeff Garlin, Joan Cusack.

Director: Josh Cooley Genre: Animation, Comedy,

Kids and Family, Science Fiction and Fantasy In Theatres: June 21, 2019 Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So when Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turnedtoy, Forky (voice of Tony Hale), declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky why he should embrace being a toy.

Annabelle Comes Home

Cast: Madison Iseman, Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson

Director: Gary Dauberman Genre(s): Horror, Mystery & Suspense

In Theatres: June 28, 2019 Determined to keep Annabelle from wreaking more havoc, demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren bring the possessed doll to the locked artifacts room in their home, placing her “safely” behind sacred glass and enlisting a priest’s holy blessing. But an unholy night of horror awaits as Annabelle awakens the evil spirits in the room, who all set their sights on a new target, the Warrens’ 10-year-old daughter, Judy, and her friends.

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Hustle & life — MKALA MWAGHESHA

It’s a

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life

Hustle & life For years, hip hop music has been associated with crime, drugs, sex and money. They call is street or simply gangster life. In this piece, PULSER’s MKALA MWANGESHA handles the debate as he borrows from insiders who have been in the game

COURTESY

R

eleased for digital download in 2012, Sex, Drugs and Hip Hop is a mixtape that was done by Tony Yayo, featuring special appearances by Bun B, Ron Brownz, Slim Thug, Mr. Porter.

Too Short, Gucci Mane and Danny Brown among others.

It had hard-core tracks like Make it Snow, All These Bit*ches, 2 Girls, Pissy, 100 Bottles, Cemetary, Break a Bi*ch and so High. The mixtape highly idolised what is traditionally known to be the street hip hop ‘thug’ life that revolves around crime, drugs, sex and money.

That could sound far-fetched. Hey! Let’s have a go. He runs on stage to a rousing applause and hysteria from the crowd, waves his towel in circles above his head, and raps to the lines of his hit song.

But behind the glamour and swag, he could be a conduit of millions of shillings that have been gained through dubious means. Drugs, prostitution, corruption or other means, millions of dirty money is pumped each year into showbiz.

“Look around you. There are many young men and women around who do not have a pinch of talent at all, but chuck videos out every week. Do you think it’s their money?” a prominent radio personality asked.

“We get money to push these people. We get paid handsomely to try to create buzz around them. But the faceless people around the musicians are doing much more than spending a few thousand bankrolling video shoots and studio time. They are washing money!” he said.

A prominent club in Westlands is also speculated to be a conduit of dirty money. The club, which was once the go-to for many Pulsers, was said to be running at a loss, but the management was ok with the arrangement, as the

higher purpose of its existence mattered more than making a profit from selling booze and shisha. The club business is one of the biggest avenues for laundering money. This explains why some clubs, even as they seem to be doing badly, have remained opened for decades. The management of these clubs rope in artistes to make occasional appearances for a few thousands, knowing too well the desperation the hitmakers are in.

“Fake it till you make it is so rampant in showbiz,” the radio personality explained. “If you look at the industry, only a few of the guys are actually rich or have gotten rich overtime.

Most of them, they are being bankrolled by drug dealers of sugarmummies and daddies, because they portray a life they can’t afford.”

This could be true. While showbiz is an industry that creates more role models than any, especially with the impressionable young people who are the real attended of gigs, only a small amount of the cash trickles down to the real artistes.

A report dubbed Putting the Band Back Together, by America’s fourth largest investment bank Citigroup has gave a damning diagnosis of the music industry - musician only got 12% of the $43 billion the music industry generated in 2017.

According to the report, sourced from the Business Insider, much of the money is lost to streaming companies, studios, management companies and other middle-men, despite fans spending as much as $20 billion a year on music.

In early 2017, the Tanzanian government cracked the whip. In less than a week, top artistes were summoned to various police stations to record statements after they were linked to drug use and trafficking. In went the late Agnes Masogange, Diamond, Wema Sepetu, Chidi Benz, TID among others. While some were investigated and released, others were given suspended sentencing, and ordered to regularly report to police stations as part of parole.

Is it rampant?

Bongo has lost many stars to drug addiction and alcoholism, including Langa, Albert Mangwea, while some top stars in the region have languished in addiction, including the late Shavey, Pam, Bamzigi, Jimw@t, Ray C and Mombasa’s Escobar Babake.

Rojo Mo, a Mombasa rapper who just released Hawajui featuring Khaligraph Jones, intimates that drug use among artiste can be attributed to cash flow.

“Most of the time, we get intro dug use because all of a sudden, we have this large amounts of money coming in,” said Rojo. “The good life can lead one to make irrational decision that will waste himself and then the focus

they had on music.”

“It could be, because no one really bothers to follow up on the lifestyles we artistes live in.

Most of us go on abusing drugs unnoticed and by the time it’s coming out, we are deep into it,” Rojo Mo added. Another brilliant wordsmith, Tanzanian’s Darrasa, is nowhere to be found, with speculation rife that he got into serious drug abuse. After unleashing hits like Muziki, Hasara Roho and Too Much, he has not released any song in a year. His story echoes the tribulations that Dar’s Chidi Benz has gone through, spending more time sin police cells and rehabilitation centers, than he has the studio.

Other than having too much to spend, does addiction also point to the pressures these artistes go through to remain relevant by delivering a product the fans can’t get enough of?

In a recent piece about Canadian sensation Justin Bieber by Soraya Roberts titled We stand on guard for Bieber, fame comes with its own downside. Four months into his first international tour, the artiste was not sure he could handle the pressure anymore, and was on the brink of quitting.

“Justin sat down and told me he didn’t like being famous and couldn’t handle the pressure anymore,” his manager Scooter Braun wrote on Bieber’s memoir, Just Getting Started.

His manager read him the options: Be Michael Jackson, or amount to nothing.

Michael Jackson was also part of global stars that have flirted with drug use, whether for recreational purposes, or as anti-depressants.

Celebrated Swedish Deejay Avicii is said to have cut himself with a bottle, leading to his death. It emerged that he had been battling sever stress for years.

The gangsterism in the industry showed its ugly head early this years, after models said enough is enough and exposes casting agents, fashion designers, publishers and talents manager using the hashtag #PayModelsKE. The tweets exposed the murky world of fishy contracts and sexual favours that get exchanged for jobs. Many corporate heads, including publisher Olive Gachara, were accused of delaying payments for work done.

Music producers have been accused of asking for sexual favours from female artistes to record them, while some radio hosts have been accused of the same. It’s hard to break out as a female artiste in Kenya.

While being diplomatic, Calvo Mistari explained that the industry is skewed towards the men, making it hard for many female creative to shine through.

“It’s a male dominated industry, with 80 per cent of producers, video directors being male,” said the Mwanaume Ni Effort artiste. “Now we are seeing more female instrumentalist and publicists.”

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COURTESY

GAMES

- boniface mithika

play, pause, repeat 60

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COURTESY

gaMes triton Survival

trover Saves the Universe

F

rom the co-creator of Rick and Morty comes Trover Saves the Universe which is a comedy adventure filled with combat, plat forming, puzzles, and morally questionable choices as you try to save the universe from a beaked lunatic, glorkon, who has stolen your puppies and stuffed them in his eyes and is consequently using them to destroy the universe.

Only you and Trover can save everything in this bizarre comedy adventure.

warhammer: chaosbane

This is an action rpg - role playing game, set in the Warhammer fantasy universe ravaged by war and dominated by magic, you must rise up to face the Chaos hordes. playing solo or with up to four players in local or online co-op, choose a hero from the four character classes and prepare for epic battles wielding some of the most powerful artefacts of the Old World. activate your bloodlust to escape the most perilous situations.

hell Let Loose

This is a realistic World War Two first person shooter with open battles of 100 players. With lumbering tanks dominating the battlefield, crucial supply chains fuelling the frontlines, being a cog in the machine of colossal combined arms warfare. Hell Let Loose puts you in the chaos of war, complete with deep player-controlled vehicles, a dynamically evolving front line, and crucial unit-focused gameplay that command the tide of battle.

In the year 2114 the earth has been invaded and it’s your job to save the universe. an alien civilisation has built a network of portals in the planetary system of neptune that allows entry to the earth by creating black holes in the atmosphere of our planet. You have been sent to the main satellite of neptune: Triton to prevent the invasion of new alien troops as well as destroy the network of portals of the rest of neptune’s satellites.

You must defend and build a fortification around the portal to prevent access.

world end Syndrome

mixing romance with murders and the living dead, World end Syndrome is a gripping story that will make you shiver but ask for more! arrive in a beautiful seaside town and join the local school’s clubs, before a dead body drifts on the shores of the river and it’s up to you and your friends to figure out if the legend of the Yomibito is true and what it means for the town.

Bloodstained: Ritual of the night

another thrilling action-adventure follows the protagonist miriam, an orphan who was taken in by an alchemist guild and subjected to experiments that cause her to crystalise as the result of magi-crystals, crystalised demonic energy, being transplanted into her body. The ordeal placed her in a ten-year coma, awakening to find her condition temporarily halted by an alchemist who was against the guild’s act to summon demons to their world, though his treatment can be averted should miriam assimilate too many crystal shards from defeated demons. To prevent the outbreak of demons and end the curse while retaining her humanity, miriam ventures into Demon Castle to confront gebel, another of the alchemists’ magi-crystal experiments who lost his humanity and summoned the demons to change the world.

Mini-Mech Mayhem [PSVR]

mini-mech mayhem is a deeply funny table-top Vr battle game for up to four players online. Team up with your lil’ mech buddy to plan a flawless strategy, then marvel at just how wrong you were. not to worry, play some power cards to get your team back on track, or dare to trust in your instincts and crafty skills, and pull off a stunning win! The game boasts online

multiplayer functionality for up to four players.

Judgment

Starring Japanese actor Takuya Kimura, Judgment is an action-adventure video game initially developed under the codename project Judge. The game is a spinoff of the Yakuza series. This is a third-person perspective. The legal thriller set in the Yakuza world of Kamurocho and follows private detective Takayuki Yagami as he investigates a serial murder case and employs a fighting system similar to that of Yakuza 0 where players can change into different styles. additionally, the game features an investigation mode where the player must find traces of the criminal.

Monster Jam Steel titans

From the stunning visuals of the ultra-realistic truck physics delivering the most authentic monster jam game the game delivers the complete monster jam experience with all the trucks, stunts, stadiums, racing and massive air in one game. One can immerse themselves in the game in various modes including Stadium and outdoor racing, various Stunt Challenges and Destruction modes. It gives you the taste of how it feels being behind the wheels of a monster truck.

Mutant Year Zero: Road to eden

Developed by Swedish studio, The Bearded Ladies, and published by Funcom road to eden is a turn based tactical post-apocalyptic adventure game. The turn-based tactical game has a lot going for it, including a small, experienced team with credits on the Hitman series. In motion it’s a clever hybrid of modern, XCOm-like tactical gameplay and real-time stealth. It gives the players extraordinary freedom to maneuver and plan their attacks.

the Sinking city

This open-world detective game with a third-person camera perspective features an open investigation system in which the outcome of the player’s quests will often be defined by how observant the players are when investigating different clues and pieces of evidence. The town of Oakmont has been affected by flooding to various degrees, and the player must use a boat to safely traverse the flooded streets to reach drier areas. The player can swim if necessary, but the water is infested and can fatally damage the player’s health and sanity.

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horoscopes - the PULSaR aStRoLoGeR

unliKe MOsT asTROlOgeRs whO use siMple sTuFF liKe CaRDs anD Tea leaves, OR even MeRe geneRal guesswORK TO DisCeRn The FuTuRe, The pulseR asTROlOgeR aCTually lOOKs aT The nighT COnsTellaTiOn (using a TelesCOpe) high up in The ngOng hills

T

he following June readings were done starting 2.30am and ending 3.18am on the morning of may 17, 2019.

GeMini (May 21 – June 21)

a close reading of the gemini constellation revealed that the past is, out of the blue sky, going to become very much part of your present in the month of June. It could be a childhood friend/ high school pal that you reconnect with, a relative from the diaspora, or even an old lover, looking for a renewal of your ‘friendship.’

canceR (June 22 – July 22)

Looks like June is going to be what many fake pastors call a ‘breakthrough’ month for you. It might be a promotion at work, a business proposal that goes through, a manuscript a publisher accepts – you get the drift of the stars … and they are in your favour this month. So the next time mariga says ‘Karibu Bet In’ in June, you know where to place your bet.

COURTESY

Leo (July 23 – august 22)

Looks like the lucky pulsar in the Constellation of Cancer has stolen some of your light, Leo! Because this is a month where you will find yourself in a lot of fights, leading to fractious relationships between yourself and other folks – maybe even your partner. Ill temper and distemper will make you one choleric lion/querulous lioness. But by the time you say ‘hi’ to July, the dark clouds ought to have lifted.

ViRGo (august 23 – September 23)

‘event Horizon’ from the black galactic hole in your constellation will give you inner psychic powers this month. You will find it is as if you are now able to tune into, and read other people’s thoughts, which means your relations will be harmonious, your advice much sought. You may even find some of your night dreams coming true this month, paranormal Virgo.

LiBRa (September 24 – october 23)

The stars are screaming that you get out of the house more this month, Libra. get OuT there, and interact with other human beings! Bond with colleagues at that after work choma. go climbing mount Kilimanja-

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ro with strangers. Join ‘alcoholics anonymous,’ even if you don’t drink, if that’s what it takes to mingle.

ScoRPio (october 24 – november 22)

Whether you work hard or you choose to work smart in the month of June is up to you, Scorpio.

But the sting in the stars is that it does not matter, not in the month of June. Your efforts will come to naught!

SaGittaRiUS (november 23 – Dec 21st)

You will be like hot peas in a cosmic cauldron all of June, ‘Saggy,’ and you have a right to be happy. In polar opposite of Scorpio, your stars are on a hot streak, and you may find yourself coming into a freak windfall. enjoy!

caPRicoRn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

While Saggitarius’ cup overflows next door, alas, there will not be much on your plate in June.

But this is the time to save your acorn, Capricorn, so that come next year, you reap big from your harvest of corn. In short, June is the season to plant seed for longer term good income. aQUaRiUS (Jan 21 – feb 19) If ever there was a time to take a vacation, or even just a break, Water person, June is the month. Otherwise we see you headed for some kind of psychic breakdown or depression.

PiSceS (feb 20 – March 20)

Like a confused fish in a new sea, June may pass you by, pisces, as you day dream or just get a bit lazy. You need to remove your head from the clouds, get your feet back on earth, and sit your backside to work.

aRieS (March 21 – april 20)

This is the month that aries becomes either romantic or a randy goat out there. Because your constellation is aligned to Venus in June, you will find that your blood is boiling. But be careful who you hit on! If you find your partner a bit boring this month, chill till July. Otherwise you may find the grass you want to chew on the other side is nothing but fat cacti.

taURUS (april 21 – May 20)

This is a month that is full of trips and travel for you, Bull, so bully for you. The first third of the month may find you travelling upcountry. The second third may find you out for leisure, or even out of the country. and the last third out on the field, on work related assignments. ‘Star Trek’s tune is your jingle in June.