mwafrika.com - Third Kitenge Festival

Third Kitenge Festival

April 13, Memorial Park – There is always something different happening at the Kitenge Festival. This time round, S.K. Blue introduced an expanded nine-member Kitenge band, threw in a new jam, and roped in three performers, two of them widely popular afro artists, for the afternoon. The result was a relaxing and much appreciated three hour outdoor experience.

The little known Koko Band did a good job of curtain-raising, setting the theme for the afternoon. Although Koko is Luo word for noise, their smooth benga renditions were instead an entertaining reminder of the simplicity of African tunes, wrapped as they were around the sounds of flutes, drums and shakers.

Cheers welcomed Harry Kimani, who proceeded to give an exceptional showing with his vocal adventures and guitar-strumming ways, dropping hits like Waithera, Ciana and Haiya. The final guest artist, afro crooner Chizi, was at his usual best. Backed by Sheila and Muthoni Mburu, he dispatched crowd favorites Shamba La Wanyama and Sana Sana before vamping out with Nyisa Yo and the inevitable jamming session - leading the crowd in creative dance moves to the band's rythms.

In true form, host S.K. Blue owned the show via an energetic performance. From Prophecy to Ati Nini Man to new jam Muthurwa (a hilarious account of the woes faced by Eastlands commuters in recent days), Blue kept up the zing and passion he’s known for. Then of course there’s the inescapable African outfit – this edition’s a dazzling white Kitenge with matching shoes. For all we know, Blue may just be setting a trend in Kenyan dress!

Thematic considerations were given a central berth as expected, with Blue, as well as Hope Worldwide representative Fridah discussing HIV/AIDS stigma.

The third Kitenge Festival was nothing short of impressive. Save for a couple of (rather inopportune) sound glitches, the organization and décor was much better than previous editions. The diversity of performers was a welcome move, and Kitenge's decision to pursue this direction is worth applauding. Moreover, S.K. Blue seems to have found his footing in his new afro-fusion style and the confidence is showing through. It may not be too early to say that Kitenge Festival is quickly becoming one of the premier regular gigs on Nairobi's afro-fusion scene.

Waiting For The Show