Maverik Sounds proudly presents Mavo Solomon’s debut release, iSiGiDiMi.

The literal translation of the word ‘iSiGiDiMi’, is ‘Important Message’. Mavo Solomon explains: “When I was writing these songs, I was always amazed at how homogeneous the music mix in our country is.

The writing is all the same, and robs the listeners of diversity. I wanted a different sound musically and lyrically. It is not easy capturing good ideas in a few lines of melody and verse. Hence, the idea of a musical sound ‘worth listening to’ was more appealing. This is my use of the word ‘Isigidimi’!” Indeed, Mavo is a remarkable talent.

Born in Queenstown in 1975, he has obtained 3 degrees in mathematics, mechanical engineering and energy studies. His musical and/or writing influences are many, including BLKsonshine, Paul Simon, Richard Bona, Jesse Harris and many more.

Mavo writes with purpose and each song contains a message (isigidimi). His writing and raspy soft singing voice captured the hearts of those who have discovered his music.

Meeting Zwai Bala, of TKZee fame in Sandton in March 2006, he later got the interest of Hugh Masekela, who set up a meeting with the talented producer, Erik Paliani (of Zamajobe’s MTV Award nominated fame – Ndawo Yami!) Together with Erik’s ingenuity in co-writing the bulk of the songs, Mavo was able to translate his writings to beautiful songs.

The lyrical content ranges from issues of love, presented philosophically, rather than the literal sense (as in ‘Uthando’, and ‘Ngonaphakade’). Mavo identifies with the roots and politics of his country and continent as described in the moving ‘Izembe’, and ‘Imbali Yethu’ and touches on the issues of transformation in ‘Kaloku’. He is most heart-wrenching on his more sentimental pieces on growing up (‘Ndize?’), his ode to a young love (‘Gabisile’) and his lullaby to his son, ‘Kwedini’! Not to be weakened in rhythm, the beat of the continent resides in his own upbeat expressions in ‘Mamelani’ and ‘Uyavutha.’

The promise of good music to come lies in the collaborate effort of this independent record label between Mavo Solomon and the Malawian producer and musical co-writer, Erik Paliani. The two young men have a statement to make, as they are working on joint writing initiatives for other artists and music related projects. More on that later!

Source: Mavo Solomon's Website