Zimbabwean band Mokoomba has unveiled the second single from their highly anticipated album, ‘Tusona: Tracings in the Sand‘, scheduled for release on the 7th of July under the Outhere Records label.
After a five-year interval since the release of their previous album, ‘Luyando‘, the forthcoming album represents a remarkable evolution in their musical trajectory, highlighting their most rhythmically vibrant and dance-inducing work to date.
The band’s latest offering not only embraces the contemporary trend of producer-driven music production prevalent across the African continent, but also serves as a resounding testament to Africa’s rich legacy of exceptional guitar-driven ensembles. Mokoomba has adeptly demonstrated that this heritage is very much alive and has the power to set ablaze any dancefloor it graces.
Exhibiting their undeniable musical skill on ‘Tusona’, a do-it-yourself production meticulously recorded in Zimbabwe, the six exceptionally talented musicians hailing from Victoria Falls have meticulously developed their distinctive sound. Their infectious Afro grooves resonate deeply with Zimbabwe’s cultural fabric, intricately interwoven with potent influences derived from neighboring Congo, Zamrock, and Chimurenga.
In 2008, the UNESCO recognized the Makisi dances and masquerade as an invaluable component of Zimbabwean intangible heritage. Involving the Luvale initiation ceremony, the traditional “Makisi” assumes a pivotal role within various regions of Southern Africa.
During the annual Mukanda initiation ceremony, the Makisi—a troupe of masked figures symbolizing the spirits of ancestors—transcend the boundaries between the mortal realm and the ethereal plane, imparting profound wisdom to young individuals, guiding them on their journey toward responsible adulthood. Unfortunately, over the past decade, the allure of the Makisi dances has dwindled, particularly among the youth, resulting in their gradual decline.
With an ardent aspiration to breathe new life into this fading tradition, Mokoomba’s latest single, “Makisi,” which is available now, fervently beckons individuals to partake in the Makisi ceremony. This inclusive event sees the convergence of myriad participants, including the esteemed chief, his deputies, select government officials, and, of course, the village’s most alluring denizens. A symphony of ululation fills the air as young male dancers, adorned in intricately crafted masks, known as “Makishi” or “Makisi” in the Ngangela language, enrapture the attendees with their spirited performances. The young women, who have completed the “Wali” initiation ceremony, gracefully join the revelry, their rhythmic movements accentuating the celebratory atmosphere.
The accompanying music video for “Makisi” provides a rare spectacle—a mesmerizing display by a Makisi dance group hailing from Victoria Falls and the neighboring region of Livingstone. These accomplished performers are under the guidance of a close relative of Mathias Muzaza, Mokoomba’s lead singer, who himself has undergone the transformative “Wali” initiation ceremony. This groundbreaking video marks the first time a Zimbabwean band has presented this exceptional and sacred tradition, lending further credence to Mokoomba’s unyielding commitment to cultural preservation.
The album title, ‘Tusona,’ chosen by Mokoomba, is an homage to their profound reverence for ancestral customs and heritage. It alludes to an ancient system of symbols and signs traced in the sand, serving as instructional tools during initiation ceremonies within the Luvale community of Southern Africa.
A decade ago, Mokoomba exploded onto the world music stage, captivating audiences worldwide with their exhilarating performances. Having shared their music with enthusiasts in over 40 countries, including appearances at renowned festivals such as Denmark’s Roskilde and the United States’ SXSW, their prominence in the music industry continues to soar. Commemorating a decade since their inaugural performance at WOMAD, this energetic ensemble will return to the festival this summer on Friday, the 28th of July. For further details and ticketing information, please visit www.womad.co.uk. Moreover, the band has recently announced a series of tour dates across the United Kingdom scheduled for July, including a much-anticipated performance on Tuesday, the 25th of July, at London’s Jazz Cafe.
Track-listing:
- Tamvela Mama 4:17
- Nyansola 4:46
- Ndipe 3:37
- Manina 4:52
- Munaye 4:44
- Makisi 3:59
- Bakalubale 4:20
- Kandonga 2:42
- Nzara Hapana 4:14
- Makolo 4:31
- Kulindiswe (remix) 4:31 – digital & CD version only
- Njawane (remix) 4:52 – digital & CD version only
- Kumukanda (remix) 5:16 – digital & CD version only
The last three songs are remixes of songs from their previous album ‘Luyando’
Live in the UK
Tue 25 July – The Jazz Café, London
Weds 26 July – Howard Assembly Room, Leeds
Thur 27 July – The Apex, Bury St. Edmunds
Fri 28 July – WOMAD Festival, Charlton Park
Sat 29 July – The Cornish Bank, Falmouth
Buy Makisi or Tusona: Tracings in the Sand
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central