ACCES showcases impress Nairobi audience

First up was Johnstone Mukabi and the Omutibo Stars Band, a Nairobi group led by the late George Mukabi's son. His set was a nostalgic drive down memory lane that included various hits from Mukabi Sr, who is considered a pioneer of Kenyan music for popularising the Omutibo genre and influencing benga, a genre that has gone on to define the country’s musical landscape.

As the legendary hit 'Mtoto si Nguo' played, history and heritage reverberated in the Kenya National Theatre auditorium. Though he recorded just 30 songs, George Mukabi's influence on Kenyan music lives on through his son and the numerous benga artists who picked up from where he left.

Up next was Maia & the Big Sky with a dynamic set of soulful vocals and punchy lyrics that took the audience up to the clouds. The seasoned performer delivered a delightful set and took the audience on a journey, mixing jazzy vocals with rhythmic African tunes.

For those who could understand Swahili, the play on words was a poetic treat. The highlight of the set was her collaboration with Blinky Bill on the hit single 'Pawa'. The song is social commentary on the media and the power it has to influence and manipulate. It was expertly executed by Blinky Bill, Maia and her skilled band, the Big Sky.

Winyo then took a narrative approach to his set. Although most of his songs are in Luo, he took time to explain their meaning. Drawn from his home village, his songs paint a vivid picture of his boyhood experiences and his grandmother who plays a central role in his music.

Even for those who could not understand Luo, the language had a beautiful ring and blended perfectly with Winyo’s soulful vocals. It was one of those performances that made you want to learn the language just so you could appreciate the full extent of what was being said. The whole band backed him up on vocals, bringing out a beautiful call and response.

In the tradition of saving the best for last, Eric Wainaina brought opening night to an exciting end. Just a mention of his name by emcee John Sibi-Okumu spurred a wave of anticipation throughout the auditorium. The band picked up with drum rolls and exciting synths and Wainaina took to the stage.

With an enviable stage presence and the ability to draw in his audience, the singer went through a set that included well-known hits and a few unknown songs. As the showcase went on it became increasingly difficult for the audience to remain seated. It was an all-out carnival of dance and great times. At some point he even invited members of the audience to join him onstage for a dance of their choice.

Indeed, all good things must come to an end and end it did. However, the showcase set a good pace for the conference and delegates were visibly elated as they left the auditorium.

Much more to come from ACCES 2018 this weekend.