Delighted to have the awesome Madalitso back all the way from Malawi to tour their new album! Their last sell out show here blew the roof off with dancing and infectious joy!
Madalitso are a two-man band featuring Yobu Malinga and Yosefe Kalekeni. They play the babatone – a popular home-made instrument in Malawi – and the four-string guitar, creating the traditional Malawian ‘banjo’ sound.
Described as ‘Uplifting and Vibrant’ by the BBC, they get crowds beaming with wonder and moving with joy every time. Their first album was produced by Bongo Joe records and the band has already performed at Womad, Roskilde, Sauti Za Busara, Shambala, Boomtown...to name just a few and a BBC Radio 6 session with Cerys Matthews and an excellent Womex showcase.
They were discovered busking outside a shopping centre in 2009 and their vibrant playing, strong vocals and traditional style caught the attention of Emanuel Kamwenje who recorded their first album the same year.
When not playing or touring, babatone player Yobu Malinga works as a gardener and guitarist Yosefe Kalekeni works as a security guard, however around Malawi they are increasingly revered as musical prophets.’
“What a jolly tune, I can’t wait to hear the rest of the album” — Deb Grant @ New Musix Fix (BBC 6 Music)