Zimbabwean Mannex Motsi launches album in Czech Republic
By Kenneth Matimaire – ZIMBABWE – The album cover of the latest offering from former Transit Crew lead singer Emmanuel “Mannex” Motsi imbedding the majestic Victoria Falls and the city of Prague attached together is a clear insight of what music fanatics can expect from the adventurous project.
Mannex Motsi on stage
Mannex Motsi performing at the NoPro BLEM Fest II
Titled “Optimists by Choice” by Semtam featuring Mannex Motsi, the album was launched at the NoPro BLEM Festival in Czech Republic recently. It becomes Mannex’s third solo album.
The nine track album is a mixbag of various music genres from breaks, jungle, dubstep, techno to bass and drum sounds.
Mannex comes in with his Zimbabwean flavour of cultural songs and war-cries mixed with reggae chants and soul vocals blended with the European urban dance sounds.
“Optimists by Choice” was recorded and mixed in Czech Republic while the mastering was done in the United Kingdom.
The versatile project was produced by Krystof Koenigsmark and being marketed on major online music outlets by Boomone Records from America.
The project has received commendable reception in Czech Republic with one of its song – “Foundway” – making it in the tops charts on one of the reputable radio stations.
“My music has been received quiet well,” said Mannex from his Czech Republic base.
“Of the nine songs featuring on the album, I wrote and performed eight of them. In this album, I’m adventurous in that it’s a fusion of European urban dance sounds and where I come in with my Zimbabwean flavour of cultural songs and war-cries mixed with reggae chants and soul voices,” said the former Transit Crew lead singer.
The album is supported by a video called “Cry for the Poor,” which is on the international video platform – YouTube. A video for the song “Tengenenge” is also under production.
Zimbabweans will have the privilege of listening to live performances of the versatile album when Mannex comes back early next month.
Well known for hits like “Anoti Nyoo,” “Tsamba Yawakanyora,” during his stint with Bootkin Clan, Mannex later joined Transit Crew before taking a solo path.
During his days with the country’s top reggae outfit, Mannex managed to horn his musical skills exhibited in all his three albums.
“My experience with Transit Crew has played a huge role in my musical career, in terms of voice control and creativity because you have to be spontaneous all the time. Big up Transit Crew their guidance is paying off,” he said.
After parting ways with Transit Crew in late 2011, Mannex established his own band Mo Familee, which consists of 10 group members. Since January 2012, he has done more than 50 shows in and around Harare.
The “Munhu Mutema” hitmaker has been using his talent to better the lives of the underpriviledged. He is also working with childline services fighting the abuse of children.
The MoFamilee frontman said he is looking forward to doing more fundraising shows for orphanages and old people’s homes.
Mannex has also been advocating for the promotion of aspiring young artists. Since 2009, he has been the chairman of Warren Park Arts and Kulture Development Association (WAPAKUDA).
