Afro-fusion as it relates to southern Africa is a genre that has combined the influences of jazz, reggae, pop and soul, infused with indigenous elements. For Zimbabwe that is the sounds of mbira, conga drums, hosho, our distinctive way of playing the guitar and vocals of a recognisable timbre.
These are all the elements that define Feli Nandi’s music. The singer has been driven by the desire to craft a sound that is uniquely Zimbabwean, with lyrics rooted in lived realities. The two tied together have meant that Feli Nandi’s music has sounded both relatable and familiar.
“I don’t know how to write fiction,” the singer shared on the Hello, Hi with Gemma podcast.
Announcing her solo career with the self titled album Feli Nandi, then following it up a year later with the riveting Izwi, the singer has had her life story at the centre of her craft. This is once again the binding agent of Ndisiyeyi, the singer’s third studio album.
Exploring spirituality, love, friendships, personal life battles, depression and loss, the album has a percussive touch which is softened by Nandi’s vocals. The result is culturally rich storytelling that pulls on your emotions. Produced by Alicious Ali, it is 9 tracks that feel deeply Zimbabwean.
Tongai the opener, speaks to the will of God, while lamenting on the situations we don’t have a control of: “Dai taizvisarudzira, kwekubarirwa, taizhara kubarwa kune huchi nemukaka.” Above the perceived unfairness of life it recognises that God is in control. A similar sentiment is echoed in Munamato, a fervent prayer that is closer to spoken word than song.
All throughout this album, mbira has a strong presence, along with sonic devices like chanting and ululation. The traditional is tied together with the contemporary. The title track, Ndisiyeyi, has a blues-esque guitar that is fitting for Feli Nandi’s plea to be free from abuse from those she calls family. This song sees walking in solitude as better than constantly berated for your shortcomings.
As an album Ndisiyeyi takes on issues than Zimbabwean society often shies away from. The subject of subject of suicidal ideation is addressed on Ahungasiye, with Nandi making an empathetic plea for those struggling with thoughts of taking their own lives to hold on: “Kana zvabata rangarira vaidada newe.”
In addition to exploring subjects of emotional depth, Feli Nandi excels in songwriting. The love song Muranda beautifully narrates the desire to submit to one’s partner, while Shamwari captures speaks to having the right kind of friends within your life, over the sound of hosho and drums.
Ndisiyeyi’s most poignant moment comes from the closing track Vakaita Sewe, a dedication to the 11 year old son of Feli Nandi’s who tragically passed away in 2024. Vakaita Sewe is a mournful goodbye that puts the pain of loss in song. Heartbreaking yet still a beautiful dedication.
Feli Nandi delivers another worthy chapter of music in Ndisiyeyi. The storytelling tugs on heartstrings, while percussive sound and vocal performance offers up the very best of Zimbabwean Afro-fusion music.
