Jump on the Music Express

A matatu is Kenya’s most ubiquitous public service vehicle. And Mathree is just among the dozen slang names entitled to a matatu. Ma3 band is set to carry music lovers to a wonderful musical destination, in the wake of the release of their debut album titled Beba Beba.

Music producer Tim Rimbui doubles up as Ma3 band’s producer and keyboard player. “A music producer is actually a good musician at the core, I don’t see a difference between the two. I have to admit, though, that producing a band, in which I’m also a member is probably one of the most challenging things I have undertaken in a long time,” says Tim.

What’s most unique about the band is their diligence in playing live music. Together with Tim, the band comprises guitarists Wandiri and Kato, bassist and drummist; Karaja and Brayo respectively. Nanjira is the fore lady and vocalist with an angelic voice.

Their songs sang both in English and Kiswahili, display their unquestionable African sounds mixed with a funk of pop. In fact, these sounds are what the Band loves to call ‘Afro-Pop’.

Formed around two and a half years ago, half its members also happen to be the brains behind Kinanda Arts Festival. The festival is a monthly extravaganza of poetry, visual art and creative writing and spoken word.

Ma3 actually aren’t the resident band at Kinanda festival though you will definitely catch them in action at the festival at least on a bi-monthly basis. The song Beba Beba is just one of the danceable tracks in the album. With a Kwaito-feel, it’s a plea to the listeners simply asking the young and old to get into their vehicle of music.

In the short time the band has been together, a dedicated music festival and an album can be labeled as their achievements, but the band’s producer thinks otherwise. “Our greatest strength has definitely been our ability to work together towards a common goal, our music,” says Tim.

Beba Beba’ will be released on November 12th at the Goethe-Institut.

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