By Andre Gariseb WINDHOEK In the late 2003, Phura with “epa boko boko, ama baka baka” invaded the airwaves with a totally unique and mind-blowing amalgamation of traditional and contemporary sounds. Now after the sizzling success of his first album, this talented energetic artist from Mondesa in Swakopmund is back with brand new material to get the deserved props and to continue where he left off. The new album titled “Ti hana tsÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚Âxu-e?” and Phura’s second, represents the first from Phura since his debut release and should not disappoint his strong and dedicated fan base. Together with acclaimed producer Steven !Naruseb, Phura continues to set the trends in the area of “MA/KHAISA” (ma-kai-sa) and this highly anticipated new album, with 12 tracks reflecting the unique and renowned Namibian sound is no exception. Notably, Steven’s musical producing prowess and talent consolidated a crossover producing success and contributed extensively to the acclaim of artists such as Backos, Olavi, Ralph & Pelle, Stanley, Stella, The Dogg and Killa-B (Eliko) just to mention a few. The album already secured major airplay across all formats and is hotly anticipated by radio, retail and consumers alike. The album opens with “Kaise tara !=gaisiÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ’ÂÃ’šÂ¬Ã…” (I think a lot about you), which is about a heartbroken man who misses his lady love who left him. Then it moves on to “Hoara hÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚Âti /namsaÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ’ÂÃ’šÂ¬Ã…” (My only love), with a beat inspired by the old school Chiclets band. On this song Phura declares and assures his lady love that she is the only one for him in the world. The remix of the first single “Ti hana tsÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚Âxu-e?” (So this is how it feels like?) featuring the sensational vocal talent of Genesa and harmonious flavourings by other Welwitschia Music Productions label mates Allen Johnathan & Charroh, is already pushing the boundaries at premier local radio stations. Other notable tracks to look forward to are “Gaxu //ÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚´a” (Long finger), “!=Naba khomÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ’ÂÃ’šÂ¬Ã…” (Dance for us) featuring Simon Amutjira, not to forget the 2005 (Phase remix) of “Durus tsi /hoabÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ’ÂÃ’šÂ¬Ã…” (Cat & mouse), which appears as a bonus track. From the spanking groovy “Gao-khoe (King) & Tita Gomo PhurataÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ’ÂÃ’šÂ¬Ã…” (I’m Phura) to the beautiful modern melodies of /Asa xu-e? (Is it a new thing?), this album warms your soul and makes you smile, but most importantly, you will DANCE (regardless of race, creed or culture). The album, like the proceeding “Tsuba tes go a ti /namsa” will undoubtedly continue to appeal to a multi cultural/cross over audience. Phura’s music is reminiscent of “/khais & !hudans” (a traditional Damara singing) with a healthy dose of contemporary dance beats and funky rhythms thrown in for good measure sound and is called “MA/KHAISA” (ma-kai-sa). He’s simple, yet beat-based songs have attracted an enthused audience to date. The release of “Ti hana tsÃÆ’Æ‘Æ‘ÃÆ”šÃ‚Âxu-e?” marks another milestone in the career of the king of MA/KHAISA, who is certainly one of Namibia’s most extraordinary artists.
2006-02-132024-04-23By Staff Reporter