They came, they saw, they rocked! That’s the summary of 3-time Grammy Award winning rockers Jars Of Clay Nairobi concert. This talented band won many hearts whilst on tour, rocking the city with tunes more popular than initially thought. Simply put, they exceeded the expectations of many, giving great bang for the buck for each one of their concerts.
 Jars Of Clay The band was here on the invite of I Choose Life, whose dual purpose for the events was not only to allow Jars of Clay fans to connect with them, but also to launch the Jijue One Million initiative – a HIV/AIDS awareness campaign whose target is to get one million youth tested and know their status.
The first of two events was the VIP concert, held at the Mavuno Dome, just off Mombasa Road. Filled to near capacity, the event also featured many local heavyweights, including Eric Wainiaina, Pete Odera and Kanjii amongst others. And even though former HOPE FM breakfast presenter, the hilarious Yafesi Musoke, together with ICL’s MaqC did a brilliant job handling MC duties, it was unfortunate that the main act were taking to stage at 10 pm, the scheduled end of the event. Still, there was ample opportunity for Jars of Clay to show just why it is that they are award-winning platinum selling artist. Pics of the VIP concert available HERE .
The main concert followed two days later at the KICC ballroom, and was scripted much better. It still had its fair share of openers, but by and large the event ran very smoothly. This time around MaqC was joined by yet another funnyman, this time around Churchill sidekick Eric Omondi. First on stage was King of Kapungala himself, Daddy Owen, whose set included, amongst others, his latest and very fresh single Sytem Ya Kapungala. The Hip Hope crew of Michelle, Astar, Bupe and Rigga were also in the house, as were MOG, dancers X-Tzee and Rachel. Gatwitch Records star Juliani was very warmly received, as was Jimmie Gait, whose Muhadhara single is still rocking the nation.
Coming in with the hit, Love Song, they were thunderously applauded by fans and rock enthusiasts alike. From then on, the group was absolutely sizzling. Performing a twelve-song set, it was a rhythmic clash of man, guitar, drums and piano. Never seeming to tire, their energetic performances were a great testament to their numerous accolades and multi-platinum status.
Being the year’s first local event featuring international acts, it sets a great tone for the rest of the year.
 Astar Throws Down  Hip-Hope's Ciiru  The Hilarious Eric Omondi  Eagerly Anticipating Jars Of Clay  XTZee To The Left  Then The Right  Jimmie Gait Gets The Crowd Moving  Jijue's Director (Center) and Friends  Juliani  Jimmie Gait Plays Keys  MOG's Tony Looks Stylish  Hip-Hoppers Rachael  So Does His Partner Kenti   Juliani Gets Serious  Charlie Lowell On Keys  Lead Singer Dan Haseltime Gets Serious  MaqC & Eric  Guitarist Gabe Rushivael  Doing The Rock Thing  Drumroll Please...Jeremy Lutito  Matt Oadmark  ICL Director Mike Mutungi  MC - MaqC  DJ Moz On The Wheels  Steve Mason  Crowd Appreciates Jars Of Clay
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1"This one's short..." at Wednesday, 25 February 2009 19:43
I live abroad, and I am an avid follower of your articles. But I find this one wanting. Where's the detail that's included in the wrap-up of local concerts and events? This was a Grammy Award winning international act, performing two shows for the first time in Kenya. All I see here, juxtaposed against exciting pictures, is a lukewarm review of the event; nowhere near as vivid as the average Kijiji event for instance (and those happen quite often). It would be grand if you granted this concert, and subsequent ones by other unique artists, the attention and coverage they deserve.
2"Tell all" at Thursday, 26 February 2009 11:33
Your coverage of this event was not complete. How can you fail to mention the only rock act among the curtain raisers?? Come on, this was a rock concert yet you go on and on about hip hop artistes & dancers. They may be relatively unknown but at least you should have mentioned them. Anyways, Jars of clay did a superb job
3Comment at Thursday, 26 February 2009 23:12
Huh? What are you guys on about? The event was awesome, and Mwafrika are the only guys who have given any significant coverage. Geez. Some people are never satisfied. Even though i'm not a big rock fan...i enjoyed. Thanks Mwafrika.
4Comment at Friday, 27 February 2009 06:46
Heii...round hii im with Sue. Ka hulike Mwaf's work, get another site...ALA!! Job hii ni kali. Mad love.
5"''sinjouritta''" at Monday, 04 May 2009 14:51
I agree wit Sue, Mwafrika deserves alot of credit 4 bin da most trustworthy & onpoint Christian Website in Kenya in terms of giving comprehensive 4.1.1 & update on events &gigs. I was at da event & it rily rocked. I also admired the level of humility that this guys exhibit. Their visit is one that i will cherish 4 a long long long tym. Baraka 2 da organisers &sponsors. Again-lets not take anythn We have for granted;not until you loose something do you realize its true ultimate worth & value.
6Comment at Tuesday, 05 May 2009 10:09
I'm not saying Mwafrika don't do a good job. Indeed they do a good job, but roundi hii...they didn't cover the whole story, don't you think failing to cover a ROCK band in a ROCK concert is a glaring omission?
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