Fresh Les to launch debut jazz album

Chippa Legodimo | Tuesday April 14, 2015 12:30

The former kwasakwasa man initially wanted to launch his album shortly after its release last month, but decided to extend the dates due to a busy schedule.

“Just like I gave the recording my full attention, I want to make sure the launch is well planned.

“There were so many shows with big names during March/April, so the fans were scattered. I am new in this genre and the album is also new so it is important to do it when there is more calm,” the musician told Showbiz recently. The last two months have been full of activity. Among those shows that could have dented Fresh Les’ launch was the annual Hamptons jazz festival, which had big names such as legendary Ray Phiri, sassy Zonke among others.  Then came the Gaborone International Jazz Festival, which also boasted legends such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Martin Iveson, Louis Mhlanga as well as Botswana’s finest jazz players Punah Gabasiane and Shanti Lo.

“It is not that I doubt my album. It is going well and I expect the sales to pick after the launch, which is why we plan to make the launch a memorable affair.

“I knew that trying to squeeze in when people were still focused on those high profile events could affect my launch,” he said. Apart from him and his backing band, Rhythm Mates, the musician has also enlisted the services of jazz’s golden woman, Punah Gabasiane-Molale, borankana upstart Maghebula,  whose latest number Ga Go Ragwe Ka Lenao is currently making waves.

Afro-pop sensation, Skavenga and Stream Jazz, complete the line-up.