Ashimba - Wakukaya (2012)

Ashimba, Tanzanian Singer-Songwriter and Guitar Virtuoso Ashimba (full name Andrew David Shimba) is a singer-songwriter based in Bagamoyo/Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He released his debut album "Nuru Nyikani" (produced by Jakob Poll) in January 2009 and his second album "Wakukaya" (released through Helsinki-based labels Grandpop Records and UduMood Music, distributed in Scandinavia by Playground) in August 2012. One of the highlights of the "Wakukaya" sessions was a visit from the legendary taarab singer from Zanzibar, Bi Kidude. Ashimba's style is a combination of East African music, with elements of Afro pop and acoustic music. In addition to Swahili, Ashimba sings and writes in various tribal languages. His lyrics talk about Tanzania, its rich nature, everyday life, and the importance of traditions, as well as the occasional friction that is created as the modern, globalized world rubs up against them. Joy and sorrow often walk hand-in-hand in Ashimba's soulful songs. Ashimba has performed in Spain and Finland and is actively touring his home country of Tanzania. Since its release, "Wakukaya" has gained a lot of positive attention in the professional European world music industry and even appeared number 20 on the World Music Charts Europe in November 2012. The album is a touching manifest of this upcoming talent and well worthy of being released for the East African public as well.



Tracklist:
1.01 - Ashimba - Ugwadu (3:49)
1.02 - Ashimba - Sungura (3:54)
1.03 - Ashimba - Kidjana (4:51)
1.04 - Ashimba - Mwanadamu (3:36)
1.05 - Ashimba - Weka Mambo (4:32)
1.06 - Ashimba - Tumbo Lamsokota (3:23)
1.07 - Ashimba - Wakukaya (5:25)
1.08 - Ashimba - Minazi (4:18)
1.09 - Ashimba - Kilimanjaro (4:31)
1.10 - Ashimba - Vita Damu (3:55)
1.11 - Ashimba - Mama (3:48)
1.12 - Ashimba - Mpiga Ngoma (4:21)
1.13 - Ashimba - Ulimponya (5:08)
1.14 - Ashimba - Hadithi Hadithi (5:15)