Bongeziwe Mabandla Finally Drops His New Album amaXesha

Bongeziwe Mabandla Finally Drops His New Album amaXesha

Bongeziwe Mabandla Finally Drops His New Album amaXesha: South African musician Bongeziwe Mabandla releases his fourth album titled “amaXesha” today, which confirmed Bongeziwe as uniquely gifted artist and his place as a key artist in the Black Alternative scene which is finding an audience at home in South Africa.

The 14-track album, “amaXesha” (“The Times”), is a collaborative effort between Mabandla and composer, instrumentalist, and producer Tiago Correia-Paulo. Departing from his previous works, they infused the music with diverse genres like soul, R&B, jazz, pop, and electronica while still preserving its foundation in traditional Xhosa folk music. The simplicity of Mabandla’s vocals and acoustic guitar takes a backseat, replaced by a more amplified sound. This creative shift showcases their intimate collaboration and marks a new direction for Mabandla’s music.

The singles “ndikhale,” “noba bangathini,” and “ukuthanda wena” offer a compelling glimpse into the sonic landscape and thematic focus of Mabandla’s album, amaXesha. This time, he delves into the intricate dynamics of relationships with our partners, family, friends, and ultimately, ourselves. Noteworthy collaborators on the album include Grammy-nominated mix engineer Stephen Sedgwick, known for his work with Gorillaz, Blur, Fatoumata Diawara, Lana Del Ray, and Benjamin Clementine. Sedgwick praises Mabandla’s captivating and emotionally charged voice, which beautifully intertwines with the album’s atmospheric textures and organic percussion. Together, they craft a rich and evocative musical journey that amplifies Mabandla’s artistic depth and creative vision.

On April 21, Mabandla took to the Colors stage, captivating the audience with a mesmerizing debut performance of his song “sisahleleleni (i).” The iconic platform described his performance as euphoric, leaving an indelible impression on all who witnessed it.

Mabandla is an acclaimed artist who has garnered multiple awards throughout his career. He has graced numerous national and international stages, captivating audiences with his soul-stirring music. Over the years, he has become a sought-after collaborator, merging his creative talents with other artists from various disciplines. Beyond music, Mabandla has expanded his artistic horizons into the realms of film and visual art, showcasing his versatility and boundless creativity.

His musical journey began in 2012 with his debut album, Umlilo, which immediately caught the attention of music enthusiasts. Following the success of his first album, Mabandla went on to release Mangaliso in 2017 and iimini in 2020, both of which earned him the prestigious South African Music Awards for Best Alternative Album. His unique sound and poignant lyrics have solidified his position as an influential figure in the music industry.

In May, Mabandla’s artistic prowess will reach new heights with the release of Augure, a groundbreaking feature film directed by the Belgian-based musician and filmmaker, Baloji. In addition to his acting role, Mabandla contributes two original songs to the film. Augure has been selected for the esteemed Un Certain Regard section at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, further cementing Mabandla’s impact on the global stage.

With each endeavor, Mabandla continues to push artistic boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. His unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to evoke emotions through his music and performances have solidified his position as a true visionary. The world eagerly awaits the next chapter in Mabandla’s artistic journey, as he continues to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.

Mabandla is known for the enigmatic soul of African music, thrilled to unveil his latest project, amaXesha. With this album, he aims to continue his intimate journey and reach new audiences globally. Known for creating authentic and profound connections with listeners, Mabandla seeks to evoke genuine emotions and forge lasting bonds through his music.

amaXesha will be available in various formats, including digital stores, CDs, and vinyl. Global distribution through Integral ensures that fans from all corners of the globe can access Mabandla’s musical masterpiece. Additionally, the album will be sold at his upcoming shows, which encompass a South African tour and European summer dates. Excitement fills the air as Mabandla prepares to take the stage at London’s renowned 100 Club for two special performances in June. The anticipation is evident, with one show already sold out and the other following closely behind.

This release marks a significant milestone in Mabandla’s artistic career, as he continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his unique sound. Through his evocative performances and thought-provoking lyrics, he invites listeners to embark on a deeply personal and transformative musical experience.

With amaXesha, Mabandla invites us into his world, where time stands still and emotions run deep. It is an invitation to connect on a profound level and embrace the universal language of music. As his melodies traverse continents, Mabandla’s artistic vision transcends borders, uniting hearts and minds across cultures. Prepare to be moved as you join Mabandla on this extraordinary musical journey.

 

Listen To The Work.