3ree Peat Afrocentric Fay Comfortable In Her Skin

The Bespoke By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com

D

ashikis have made a massive comeback, women have reverted to their natural nappy/kinky hair, and African print is suddenly the new vogue. Before this global phenomenon however, there was a fashion designer who was yards of fabric ahead of the trend. Popularly known as Fay Designs or simply by the mononym Fay, it was she over a decade ago (and still is an institution today) that pioneered the Afrocentric look and is still in the game as one of the top A-list designers in the Zambian fashion industry that caters to the local, international and A-list market. Faith M Kabende has come a long way from her 99 Mulombwe Close studio and now has an atelier on Bwinjinfwumu and a flagship store in Northmed Lusaka.

Fay has transcended local markets and has been waving the Zambian fashion flag high, showcasing and selling hear wares on the international market. Having received another nod, Fay has been nominated to showcase and represent Zambia (along with two other designers) at the 3^rd annual African Fashion Reception on the 21^st of November 2015 in Paris. Having already showcased at the inaugural reception and the second one held last year, this year makes her a triple threat. With 10 outfits being the receptions runway requirement, the source of inspiration is an important component to understanding what to expect from Fay. For the Paris collection, she cited the solar system as her inspiration and the collection will be an ode to God who is the supreme creator and source of inspiration. She also added that the portfolio will be infused with her signature afrocentric flavor. Day 1 of the event she stated will be devoted to showcasing her designs on the run way, and the second day will be trading day. Not only will this prestigious event be a great platform to further promote the brand, she also affirmed that she is honored by being granted the privilege of being nominated a 3^rd time.

As far as support goes, she is expecting to receive support from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture as well as the National Arts Council. Having footed her own bill last year, can we please insure we appropriately support artists promoting our country on the world stage, and as such I implore the private sector/business community to support the arts at all levels. Echoing Fay’s sentiments also, the ministry must also consider sending bloggers/writers to chronicle and inform people at home and on social media on ongoing international aesthetic events where Zambians and representing Zambia such as the reception in Paris. No doubt in our minds and hearts 3ree peat Fay will do the Zambian copper eagle proud. Bonne chance Madam Fay, we are rooting for you!

Catch The Verbatim With Fay as she talks fashion school, video games and express who she is at kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com   

Summer in Spring At The Beach With Zinhle, Flying Fish & R & G

The Boost By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

Zambia may be a landlocked country, but no geographical limitations have ever stopped R&G Events (@RandGzambia) from providing quality entertainment and maximum fun even if it means bringing the beach to us in Lusaka. Hella kick off spring on the brink of summer with the Flying Fish Beach Festival at the Gymkhana Club at the Lusaka showground’s. Get your freshet sights, fedoras, body oil/sun screen, tuck your tummies in and avail yourselves on the 5^th of September 2015 to the sand. Those of you with the brand new Samsung Galaxy S6 edge or Note 5, you best be flexing your selfie game. Bikinis, short shorts, beer pong, freebies, the sand and music, spells the perfect weekend.

Her Name Is, yes the maverick disc jockey and the My Name Is hit maker Dj Zinhle (@DJZinhle) will be on deck to marshal the situation on the 1nes n 2wos. In a male dominated industry, this South African female Dj has made her mark as an international virtuoso of the decks and also as a respected entrepreneur in the watch, jewelry and accessory industry (If you reading this Zinhle, lemme hold some of that ERA bling tho… your timepiece maybe). ERA by Zinhle is the name of her line, get your fleek on blast this weekend by getting some of that ERA at http://djzinhle.com/onlineshop/. Enough said, the lady Zinhle will be at the beach belting hits for the masses to groove and kick sand to till sundown. Get in line and pick a number for selfies with Zinhle, I got next so I can report on how awesome the beach was.

There will be plenty of Flying Fish to quench the thirst (not that thirst perverts), who are also powering the event via R & G events. Well then, it’s a check in all the boxes. Surfs up party people, grab your towels, we are going to the beach this Saturday with Zinhle, Flying Fish and R & G Events. It’s the day after tomorrow (Friday), Saturday!          

Femi Delivers Positive Vibes

The Coverage& Exclusive By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com

T

he drum is an African invention and novelty, a cardinal part of African culture and custom. It is a tool used to communicate and celebrate, with distinct rhythms distinguishing the various occasions. Hence the theme One Drum Many Beats was indeed an appropriate theme for the 2015 Barefeet Festival, and the right elder was called upon to deliver the unifying message and enlightening force of music. The organizers Barefeet Theatre (@barefeettheater) were also up to task, the open air theater was befitting of the week long festivities that took place.  

Sound and lighting are cardinal to any live musical or theatrical performance, and they can make or break an event. Zirbo Zambia stage and lighting put to rest the myth that Zambia cannot stage festivals of international standard, by transforming the show grounds Gymkhana Club into a world class stage on which local supporting acts and a Grammy nominated musician virtuoso performed. From the first drum beat by Fire (a joint act between Zambians and the Dutch) to the last note sung by our neighbors from Zimbabwe Mokoomba (@Mokoomba), every key could be heard through the speakers clear as a bell. Indigenous acts that also took to the stage included MOJO music (@lsk_mojo) kalindula/Mukambo crooner artist Mumba Yachi (@MumbaYachi) whose performance included cult hit Mongu Rice, guitar maestro Uncle Rex and his band also belted out some hits and ballads and just before the headline act’s set, Zambian soul songstress Maureen Lupo Lilanda (@maureenlilanda)

backed by her stunning daughter and violin soloist gave a very lively performance which included a cover of Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud. 

        

The eager eyes and ears were immediately serenaded and began to sway as soon as the Positive Force began the 10 song playlist and raison d’être of the evening with a piercing horn laden performance of What Will Tomorrow Bring, and as the song mellowed down, on strutted the master virtuoso himself the great Femi Kuti on stage clad in a blue regal traditional outfit (with embroidery details of green, red and orange of the Zambian flag) with three dancers/backing vocals in tow to a thunderous welcome from the intimate crowd. The set included a fusion of music genres including funk, soul, jazz, bosa nova, all collectively weaved into an afro beat measure. The entertainer and performer skillfully played keyboard solos, saxophone and a hypnotizing 5 minute clarinet classical arrangement. From the tempo to the salient harmonies of the call and response, Do

Your Best from the Fight to Win album (the album version features Mos Def) was delivered in true afro beat standard. Other notable anthems that displayed his musical dexterity charged with social commentary included The World Is Changing, and hit record Sorry Sorry. But the four time Grammy nominated afro beat act would not have been complete without saluting the crowd with the chart toping Bang Bang. The performance was that of legends, never missing a single note, the dancers moving in sync and the Positive Force Band consisting of a six piece horn section, 1 keyboard player, 1 lead guitarist, a bass player and a drummer, kept the crowed dancing and singing along to familiar afro beat tunes. He that came to be watched and heard delivered an unforgettable poignant performance.   

   

Gratitude must be extended to all the sponsors who made the Barefeet Theater vision possible and the materialization of the celebrations. Applause Barefeet Theater also did a phenomenal job of accommodating the press (free & support underground bloggers), it’s an unsung heroes honour and other events should emulate and accommodate freelance writers. The biggest appreciation is reserved for Baba Olufemi (and the Positive Force) who has a busy schedule and global engagements, for gracing the occasion with great vigor. Although this was his maiden visit to Zambia, Olufela Olufemi Anikulapo Kuti is always welcome to Zambia. The smiles could not be wiped off the faces of the music lovers who were treated to a stellar performance of the uppermost standard. He is indeed the son of Fela, and continues to express his fathers’ legacy in his own unique way and the mission of liberating Africa.  Anikulapo (he who carries death in his pocket) indeed delivered a killer Positive Force, bringing the festivities to a crescendo ending on the evening/night of 29^th August 2015.

     

Catch a full analysis of the message Olufemi had for Zambia: Libretto by Olufemi at  On kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com Friday 4th September 2015 at 12pm CAT

Night Of A Thousand Selfies With Tlale

The Coverage& Exclusive By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com

The arts in their many different guises provide us with a glimpse of excellence, and a taste of the sublime. Art said Picasso, blows away the everyday cobwebs from the soul. All should have a chance to taste that breeze. The aesthetic of fashion has been on the back foot for a long time in Zambia, and is now just getting in its stride. A standing ovation must be given to Karen Nakawala (@karen_nakawala) and her Zambia Fashion Week (@zedfashionweek) squad for her diligence in putting together an event of such significance to the Zambian fashion industry, the astounding David Tlale Workshop. Sincere gratitude must be extended to the government through the Ministry of Tourism and Arts and Culture, as well as the National Arts Council for their unwavering support to this blossoming trade. A colossal curtain call is reserved for the maestro and avid advocate of fashion Mr. Tlale (@Tlale_large), who not only graced the occasion but also delivered a poignant discourse and spectacle indeed.  I’ll get to the selfies in a bit, but we must establish the raison d'etre.

To say the event was a success would be an injustice. It was an invaluable endeavor indeed that fed the minds and souls of hungry artist. There was enough wisdom decimated to put a fool on his course and guide a blind man to his destiny. The workshop unfolded like clockwork, from the dialogue with David, to his mini fashion show (in which the Zambian models strutted to the rhythms of Simphiwe Dana (@simphiwedana)) delivered to an attentive audience. The synthesis of the key note speech was the need for us as Africans to excel in excellence through the production of quality and pride in our culture, and aesthetics that go back a long way. Chairperson of The National Arts Council Mulenga Kapwepwe (@MulengaKapwepwe) also emphasized that, believers make us accountable for our dreams and as such we must seriously follow through and materialize our visions into actions. The Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Arts and Tourism put the exclamation mark when he stressed that there was a need to diversify from nature based tourism, and the fashion industry needed to tell government what incentives it needed.  A throng of talent in true Zambian flair was converged for awareness as well as to officially witness the launch of The Intern by David Zambia. 

The super eccentric gifted included Marilyn (@4ev3rMarilyn) in her signature felt Stetson hat, winner of the best upcoming designer at Zambia Fashion Week Debbie Chu (@debbiechu101) and Musha in an architectural inspired bespoke frock. Yves (shares name with one of my favourite designers Yves Saint Laurent) Katongo also showed up in a stunning white calico piece with a print collar she had sewn the morning of the event… what passion for the craft indeed. 

Wait! Did I just see and hear Fay with her stunning locks of natural shaggy hair & Betty (in her signature duku (head wrapper)) are headed to Paris while I was staring at and nodding at Lucie (@Lucie7) (in a fashionable stripped pink shirt) with best friend Nkole (@nkolewanseko) ? No, there was no drama or diva behaviour, everyone behaved themselves as the event was well organised and started on time. Thumbs up to the 100 strong crowd, each looking very original indeed, spotting their own eccentric designs and original African hair do’s.

If a bomb went off in the Intercontinental ballroom on Friday 21st August, Zambian fashion & arts and South Africa’s iconic designer David Tlale would have been wiped out with only an outstanding portfolio and legacy to survive the talent in the room. All protocols observed included the PS  Ministry of Tourism and Arts and Culture Hon. Stephen Mwansa , The Zambian mother of the arts Mulenga Kapwepwe (@Mulengakapwepwe), The Zambia Fashion Week master mind Karen Nakawala, seated next two me where the award winning originators of Zambian fashion

blogging MaFasho (@MaFashio) and in front of me was the retro Kutowa (@KutowaDesigns) visionary Towani Clarke (@TowaniClarke). The running shout outs and selfies would not be complete without an appearance by the sexiest news anchor on Zambian television (ZNBC) Chitalu Mulenga (@chil_mwelwa). The event was indeed worth a thousand selfies. David Tlale will also be in attendance at Zambian Fashion Week 2015 (15th -17th October 2015). 

Catch the full Tlale Exclusive: The Struggle Is Never In Vain Slayed David on Wed 26^th August 2015, 3pm CAT at kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com

Thought Of You Burning Up!

the Review By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

A

pproaching or getting on a track, is like getting 3 minutes to whisper all the right sweet nothings, something like you are about to put a ring on a stone cold fox. From the opening croon on Thought Of You, there is no doubt in the left and right ear that indeed Mike Burner (@micburnermsic) and Magician were on a mission. For the entire 4 minutes the song is on, I’m immediately transported to Miami on a vice yacht party, a scene straight out of Ballers with centerfold Serena and Venus vixens. One hand on the wheel, coasting in a hazy state without a care in the world, is the feel the song evokes. Downloaded 2649 times (at the time the article was written) and counting, the masses feel the same about this summer anthem.

Everything on the catchy riddim is pure calypso. The raspy delivery by Mic saliently scorches the disco funk synth driven melody and rides clap drum pattern. The lyrics are witty and create a mental visual of the situation and scenario of typical day in the life of a guy over the bass line. The backing vocalist deserves applause for being the butter on the cut. The mastering is stellar, sign that the sound engineer did his job thoroughly at mastering. There’s welcome buzz of a video which will send Thought Of You out of the park.                     

A hit record is the combination of the producer doing their job of interpreting the artists’ idea and the artist then getting behind the mic and delivering a one take performance.  A club banger or summer anthem however requires the midas touch to get it heavy rotation status, from the first beat and note you will know without a doubt it’s a hit record and a video will follow. The name you choose as an artist or producer can also be the game changer. Producer Magician and the MC Mic Burner (officially signed to Crystal Ball Entertainment/Music) checked all the right boxes when they chose their respective callings. The result of this rare combo was a Knuckle Punch. Can’t wait for the video to drop and cause mass commotion! 

#NICETOMEETCHA

Download Link

www.datafilehost.com//d/fe846ecf

Flow 1ne Finally Drop!

the Review By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

R

emember that “keep your eyes on Jesus” solo refrain at the end of Pompi’s Mulungu Samagona? And the harmonies on the groovy tune Packaging? As well as the concords on Peace Be Still? Or maybe you where at the 2014 Jazz Festival and saw them live backing Pompi? Yes, that was all the talented duo of Seya and Abi Mali (born and based in Lusaka) collectively known as Flow 1ne (@The_Flow1ne). The gifted singer/songwriter duet signed to Atmosphere (atmospherenation.com) on Friday 14^th August 2015 (now only a week old) officially released their maiden single Gwesa.

The approach to the song itself is refreshing as the title of the song suggests, Gwesa (Nyanja for drop or taking a load off). From the strong opening vocal delivery, I feel the spirit move, and when the beat kicks in, I get stomping and clapping because the Lord got me feeling brad new through this jiving gospel up tempo tune. The subtle church organ chiming smoothly in the background immediately reminds me of my Grandma playing her favourite spirituals but with a new twist to it. Every note is on time and in sync with every beat, a well arranged composition and easy to listen to. The complex harmonies that come strong on the hook were well executed, giving Gwesa the rich texture on which the poignantly crafted lyrics are woven. Indeed this soulful ballad “will kill a hangover” and definitely bless and lift someone’s spirit.                                   

Backing vocals seldom get the recognition they deserve for the ineffable contribution they make to a song, an album, a live performance and a musical career. The harmonies and adlibs on a lot of hit records are often the work of the backup singers. While some remain session artists, others go on to pursue solo careers, like the legendary Yolanda Adams. Applause on Flow 1ne finally dropping Gwesa and the album should be forthcoming soon. We hope. Radio; please keep Gwesa in rotation because someone out there needs to take a load off. It’s a definite 10 from me, Bless.

Download Link http://www.datafilehost.com/d/806e70e7#.Vc

Franchise Slacking In Zambia Pt.1

the Critique By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

A

 brand is associated with a culture, a way of doing things, a standard that is expected worldwide. From fast food chains to apparel flagship stores, the service and the product should be the same. Hence when a franchise license is purchased and they set up shop, it’s in contract with the franchise owner and promises a certain quality to the customer. When any franchise outlet fails to deliver anything on the menu or what is advertised, it is in breach of contract and in turn giving the customer a raw deal.

If you are a paying for it, you are entitled to what you paid for and if it is displayed on the menu then it must be available unless clear displayed and stipulated due to extenuating circumstances. Thus it is ludicrous for a fries and burger fast food chain to run out of one of its main ingredients which could be fries or burger patties. As such bread is the primary if not the basis of a sandwich along with the trimmings stipulated on the menu. Subway as part of its franchise package provides all its outlets with baking stations, in which all of the 5 breads types must be baked. Alas there is no rational reason why all the subway shops only have white bread and not parmesan oregano, honey oat, Italian herb and cheese and wheat. “Subway…Eat Fresh”, is exactly what the tagline says, I should be able to get my bread of choice from the selection offered on the menu. Yes I would like to choose my cheeses too between Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella and feta. That said if you can’t meet the basic requirements, shut down shop.

Loyalty cards aka the Subway card do not make you a free loader or a cheapskate, it’s only right that a student or working person is rewarded for frequenting your sandwich shop. Lastly, if you don’t feel like making my sandwich or you just got dumped by your would have been significant other, me nor my money care just fix my sandwich. I’ll have the extra cheese and bacon too, no tomatoes with a serviette please. Bottom line, Subway Zambia need to get on top of things, fix the situation and keep things fresh. 

A Visit To Nonna’s For Pizza

the Review By. The Lord Kempson Ari weYulu

@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri

T

here’s an old Italian adage that stipulates that everyone’s grandmother (in Italy) can cook. It is indeed true the world over that everybody claims their mother and grandmother is the best cook.  However when it comes to pizza (which is of Italian descent), who makes the best pizza is not up for discussion. That is the reason the Italian flag is clearly printed on pizza boxes (unless it’s a fugazi of course or made by a fast food chain). You no longer have to spend top Lira/Euro to get a taste of Italian cuisine. Authentic Italian in its full green, white and red is now a drive away.

Whether its pasta, ravioli or indeed pizza dough, fresh ingredients made from scratch as per tradition is indeed the distinguishing characteristic of Italian cuisine. This tradition is alive and well and practiced to the minutest of details, even the coffee is brewed with a stove top coffee maker (releasing the coffee’s full flavour). All these elements are in the waft of fragrant aromas and greet you as soon as you walk into Nonna’s Pizzeria, and hits your heart like a fat pizza pie. Nonna is Italian for old Italian woman/grandmother who is cute and can cook, and Franca Rocci (who has been in Zambia for 45 years) is the nonna who serves the most delicious Italian food you can ever think of and also owns and manages Nonna’s. The service is impeccable and what an outstanding job her crew does in ensuring everything is ala dente. 

Besides seafood being delicious and part of many culinary repertories, it is also one of many litmus tests of a restaurants substance. I ordered something different from the usual, and the Mare e Monti (sea & mountain) pizza did not disappoint. The presentation of the pizza indeed depicts a picturesque image of the sea & mountain, which transcends mere cuisine and evokes culinary couture. I could taste the freshness of the deep in the mussels that were arranged on the pizza like shells on the beach.  The filling of the sauce with chunks of ham and prawns just melts in your mouth and the mozzarella is just right.  The freshly made traditional thin crust is the base on which all these components sit, without the sogginess or oiliness you get from substandard pizzas. The Pizza is simply bellissimo.   

Where is this pizzeria with extra sauce you ask? In the “Little Italy” courtyard of Foxdale Court next to the gelato spot Gigibonta, open from 11am - 9pm every day. You can also take home a jar or two of homemade Italian pasta sauce to test you Italian cooking skills. Don’t miss out on the Sunday brunches that start at 10am and ends at 2pm, pepperoni pizza at K50 per person, K30 for children (7-12 years), and children under 6 years eat free. Dial +260969459359 or +260973485324 or +260973485327 to get yourself a slice of authentic Italian pizza.

All the items on the menu are bellissimo and fit for a culinary don such as me. Bravo Nonna, it’s a 5ive Forks experience, please pass me another slice of pizza please. Grazie mille!              

Something Sweet, Something Dulcé!

the Review By. the Lord Kempson Ari de Visé

T

he hallmark of a great restaurant is in the attention to detail and the symphony of flavors the food creates in your mouth. The service should be seamless and the experience a pleasantly lingering one. Such an establishment exits in the labyrinth that is Lusaka, an absolute treat for the taste buds and a memorable culinary experience. With something gastronomic for everyone, let us partake in a serving of something dulcé.    

The chef at any restaurant is the soul of the enterprise with their character reflected in the food, the environment and energy as well as the conduct of the staff. Such is the elegance the Director/Head chef Jessie Chipindo permeates into her restaurant Dulcé & Banana. Her warmth is notable and is visible in the sophisticated spectacle that is served. The menu indeed reflects the name and wit that was inspired by Lorraine Pascal’s desert (Dulcé and Banana) and does it a proud ode. The business is fully Zambian owned and run, and employees local staff (whom the chef has personally trained). The restaurant offers both traditional Zambian food as well as international cuisine, in fresh and serene environment.  Everything on offer is unique and to die for and is as sweet as the name Dulcé (Italian for sweet) suggests.  

If the espresso is creamy, chances are very high that the experience will be great too. On not one but two occasions, I could found no fault with chef, meal or service, (a sentiment backed by my accomplice). The amazing wings (served with a side of fries), compelled me to show up for brunch on a Monday. The ribs where so juicy and tender, the flesh pealed right off the bone. The accompanying mash was mind blowing, the texture was creamy and the intricate components of sun-dried tomatoes and coriander transcended the mashed potatoes. I also took the liberty of sampling the Creamy Prawn and Mushroom Pasta from my partner in crime’s late (served on trendy crockery), the dish was creamy, well seasoned, the pasta made from scratch and each component of the dish could be tasted (none overpowering the other). The Death by Chocolate cake had me o the ropes as my belly ached from the satisfaction of a great feast. The ingredient were fresh, of the highest quality and organic, portions are generous and hearty, the prices very fair, a treat worth every penny.

And so as it is and has always been and shall always be food and fashion go hand in hand. Being served by a smiling and vivacious urbane chef with a great fashion sense (Tom Ford cat’s eyes, an animal print Guess watch and cute ankle boots) is that extra savoir faire that ties the whole affair together. Did I mention she also makes the cocktails such as a refreshing mojito? Dulcé & Banana transcends food; it is a way of life. It’s a lifestyle of which I approve, an establishment where I can and want to spend my summer by the pool side (yes you can it by the pool), spring by the terrace and winter on the patio, a well deserved 5ive forks tip indeed. Call +260975913558 and make that reservation now.

Located on Alick Nkhata Road (at the Swedish School next to Pope Square) in Lusaka, and  open from 8am, Monday to Saturday treat yourself to breakfast, lunch and dinner, bring along a friend, associate or significant other and make it a dulcé selfie moment.  

Are You Living Your Dream?

the Review By. the Lord Kempson Ari weYulu

V

arious things prompt a writer to put pen to paper to vent. Some have a life changing motive and intent, whilst others write purely to entertain. It is seldom however that an author makes their purpose known to the reader in no uncertain terms. “In my mind, I held a vision of someone holding this book, reading and learning something important concerning attaining their dream.”  The title of the book is in itself clear and such a poignant and sincere statement that clearly affirms the writer’s objective and purpose. 

Catherin M. Bwalya’s (@CathyBAuthor) first offering Dreams Can Come True is a breath of fresh air and timely publication offering hope and direction to anyone one who has ever dreamed or has a dream. The fluid and simple manner in which this pick me up is written makes it a must read. Making it even more relevant is the cultural context in which it is written, people from all walks of life can connect and understand the simple yet profound words without having to constantly need a dictionary by their side for reference. For the school leaver, the person at a crossroads in their life, the career person in transition or someone in need of a challenge, this standard is full of life lessons and gems and a lot more.

Each chapter seamlessly continues where the last one left off, making it pleasant to read. Catherin has without doubt archived her objective and delivered on all fronts. Relevance, content and delivery are all above par, a well thought publication by the Zambian lady author motivating the people. With such a page turning debut, we hope this will not be the last we hear from the new writer on the beat.  

Catch Cathy at Planet Books Arcades on Saturday the 29^th of August 2015 at her book signing.