For the last four years, I have had the same ringtone for my phone. If You’re Gone by Matchbox Twenty. I love this song to death.., Ok, not really to death, but you get the point.
Well, in case you haven’t guessed it. I’m in a serious long-term relationship with rock music. I may not look like a rock music fanatic. You know, I don’t have tattoos all over my body, or have devilish images and satanic-like stickers all over the place. But trust me, rock music flows through my veins like Prophet Kanyari’s potassium permanganate. From Linking Park to 3 Doors Down, Coldplay, Bon Jovi, Metallica to Pink Floyd, name them all – I love me some rock music.
You can, therefore, imagine my excitement when I finally got introduced to Kenyan rock music a while ago. Yes, in case you didn’t get the memo – Kenya has a thriving rock music. Kenyan rock music is slowly, yet steadily coming of edge. As for me, I can say this – finally rock music has come home. I have been following several Kenyan rock music bands for some time now. And while I may necessarily not be an authority in matters Kenyan rock music. I certainly do enjoy the rising of rock music in Kenya, and toast a drink to the people making it happen.Speaking of Kenyan rock music bands. A few months ago an upcoming rock music band caught my attention. I heard their song on 105.5 XFM, and immediately curiosity got the better of me. So, I did some digging about the group. The band goes by the name RASH.
Speaking of Kenyan rock music bands. A few months ago an upcoming rock music band caught my attention. I heard their song on 105.5 XFM, and immediately curiosity got the better of me. So, I did some digging about the group. The band goes by the name RASH. It is basically a group of five young lads from one of the leading universities in Kenya. I fell in love with RASH, for FIVE reasons. First, while other comrades in universities are busy stoning cars along the highways coz the cafeteria closed 9.37 seconds before time. And while other comrades seem clueless with what to do with the free time between semesters or during weekends.
It is basically a group of five young lads from one of the leading universities in Kenya. I fell in love with RASH, for FIVE reasons. First, while other comrades in universities are busy stoning cars along the highways coz the cafeteria closed 9.37 seconds before time. And while other comrades seem clueless with what to do with the free time between semesters or during weekends. RASH on the other hand are busy discovering and utilising their God-given talent.
Secondly, I fell in love with RASH coz in the name of the holy one, their music is different. Different in the sense that its endowed with a unique Kenyan touch with the Swahili language billowing from their tunes. Talk of authentic Kenyan rock music, baby.Thirdly, the young lads remind me of me. They are energetic, passionate and committed to their music. And trust me, these young fellows are oozing with the sweet aroma of absolutely being the next big thing.
Fourthly, I’m all about supporting young people and their entrepreneurial efforts. And if that entrepreneurial effort is in the form of rock music, even the better. Lastly, RASH is a simple, down to earth band without any shenanigans associated with hard rock music. I haven’t seen any of their members with pierced noses, lips, and tongues with all kinds of jewellery hanging on them – and for that, I identify with them.
I won’t attempt the technicality of reviewing their music, or analysing their ideologies. However, I will say this. They released their latest single called Msafiri, Swahili for traveller a few weeks ago. People, you got to listen to this song – that’s all I am saying. Once you are done listening to Msafiri, check out their first official release Darkness and Witchcraft. What can I say? Whether you are a rock enthusiast or not, you will certainly fall in love with this song. Let it Be Rock is another of their hit that I will recommend to anyone in my social circle. Now, my friend, if the lead guitar in this song doesn’t cause blood to rush in some parts of your organ, come for a refund of your time.
So, as most young people in Kenya are all too busy courting politicians for handouts or blaming the government, unemployment and 310-prayer predators for all their earthly problems. There are young people out there, like RASH, utilising their God-given talent, following their passion, and pretty much making a difference. As for me and my love for rock music, well, as the earth liveth, you will never hear the end of it. And certainly, I will be keeping an eye on RASH and will keep you updated on their every move, as they keep rocking Nairobi and the world – one tune at a time.
My parting shot: Let’s support this amazing young lads by following and listening to their incredible music on https://soundcloud.com/rash-band. For more information about RASH band, including upcoming gigs, be sure to like their page on Facebook on www.facebook.com/rashband5.
