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Written by Kamiza Chikula
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 Mondo Music Corporation
Have you ever sat down to think of how hard it is to duplicate a really great performance? If yes then you will probably know that it's easier said than done! No pun intended, but just ask Manchester United whether the treble will be achieved any time soon!!!! Gratefully, the soccer jinx seems to have had zero effect on Zambian music, what with the euphoria of once again having another meaningful addition to the catalogue of sounds that we can truly call our own. Any red blooded Zambian (like me) will have been drooling in line for a proper helping of arguably the most anticipated album this year…
How does one even begin to select standout tracks when presented with an album that would more aptly have been called The Hits Collection? This is BLACK MUNTU at their very best! KOKOLIKO is definitely a dose of invigorating and stimulating sounds well brewed in the calabash of Kalifunku. The tracks on this album represent just about every classification and grouping there is; from up-beat to slow, from hilarious to sobering, from aggressive and overpowering to delicate and subtle, from Nyanja right across the nation to Lozi and even from Bemba southward to Tonga. All this interlaced with smart English phrases.
In true Black Muntu tradition, the album begins explosively with It's Okay. The chant chorus is set to become a well worn cliché - Black Muntu should expect a couple of law suits from avid listeners who will no doubt sue for irreparable damage to thumbs due to constantly rewinding the "You dirty minded chaps" line; it's a killer; sheer brilliance!
The melancholic Ubushimbe has some super instrumental progressions and excellent lyrical commentary. It however falters on the vocal execution of both the Kalifunku Kings and showcased newcomer Tasila Mwale. The track lacks sufficient vocal emotion to become a tearjerker as the distress and desperation of the lyrics is just not conveyed.
A party ain't a party - Zambian style - is the whole essence of the foot stomping, head banging Ichila Te Chila. It contains some very discretely planted shout-outs to loyal supporters, fans and very interestingly, also cynical prophets of doom and detractors.
The nostalgic Ba Kabudo coupled with the encouraging and up-lifting Kokoliko are surely just what every dance-maniac has been waiting for! With their pulsating rhythms and infectious melodies these are sure to gravitate the listener to the nearest dance-floor. The latter track is well deserving of the honour of title track.
Nkashi Yandi Kosa is a song for the sisters. With a groove that is deeply reminiscent of Mayo Wandi Wa Chibili; it once again presents the mellow and easy -listening face of Leo and Mweembe.
Other tracks worth a second, third and umpteenth listen are Chinimanga, Kamuboola and the blunt, hard-driving Chitenge
In summary, Kokoliko is a total package from it's pace setting cover design to the track arrangement and even to the hype and buzz of excitement it has generated. With sixteen tracks, the album is sure to have something for everyone. We haven't heard the last from these two maestros by a long shot. Unwavering respect brothers!
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