Call us abstract records

• New record house on the music scene

They produce songs that awestruck hearts of both Gospel and secular music fans in the country. Samuel Bokosi and Samuel Chirambo of Abstract Records in Blantyre are the young and talented music producers who fit the definition of unsung heroes behind most classic tunes in the country.

Their unique mind’s eye on instrumental compilation gives life to those artists’ projects they work on. This might be an introduction trumpet to those yet to identify some of their atmospheric music services.

Before you are tempted to embrace your belittling sentiments, they produced Patience Namadingo’s The All New extended-play (EP) that pleases most ears, Purple C’s XO (Extraordinary) album, and Malawian culture ‘packed’ in Mzati’s This is Malawi (TIM) afro jazz album, among other projects.They are also behind instrumental accompaniments of some of the following artists’ classic songs: Theo Thomson, Saint, Chigo Grace, Walu, Saxess, Genii Black and Sangie, just to mention a few, which a lot have danced and got hearts soothed to. The list includes international ones: Jay Bankz (America), Jah Dore (Jamaica), Slagga B (Zimbabwe) and Daggie Da Don (Kenya).

Standard sonic arrangement and rich instrumental compilation from the above artists’ hits have made the two Samuels the most sorts after top mark producers.

In an interview, Bokosi says they strive to be an umbrella of unlimited creative ideas in the music industry.

“As producers, we are versatile to give rich and complex beats for everyone to ride one. We focus to make each piece on the table adorable and classic as it should be. And we do fuse different genres that give a fresh sound which is exciting all the time,” he says.

There is creativity air in Abstract Records’ booth, no wonder they amaze clients and give songs that please Malawians’ ears and souls over the years.

Bokosi traces their audio production journey back to 2008 while students at The Malawi Polytechnic, a constituent college of the University of Malawi (Unima).

They were encouraged after producing two singles for their music group, Ebenezer, at the college.

“I met my colleague [Chirambo] in 2008 at Polytechnic. He was studying Bachelors in Engineering and I was doing Bachelors in Commerce/Accountancy [2008-2011]. He plays guitars outstandingly while I am excellent on keyboards and piano. We did two classic tunes for Ebenezer music group back then and decided to continue audio production after school. We started the studio in 2012,” he explains.

The studio is located at Kameza close to Mtengo Umodzi Hospital in Blantyre.

Bokosi also known as EQ in music circles says the name Abstract came about to fit their handy works that strike chords in both clients and listeners. Think of Tandigwireni by Patience Namadingo.

From the studio, Abstract Records expanded into a record label and has Purple C, Teddy, Mad Alley and Desire on its watch.

As a record label, Chirambo alias Mzota says they have catapulted several young artists to stable and competitive stages in the local music industry.

The brand has just developed an online audio store (www.abstractmalawi.com) where artists do sell music with ease.

“This is a very efficient platform with highest standards in Malawi and other neighbouring countries. The site has good sounds which we produced and those we simply help distribute and sell. Payments are done through Airtel Money, Visa and Mastercards,” says Chirambo.

He says artists should choose Abstract Records as it has features and modern mixing techniques that give excellent tunes.

“We do fuse local touch to the urban and afro jazz compositions professionally. We are working hard to put our unique and sweet touches on the competitive international front in terms of sonic quality, composition and exclusivity through clients’ music. Above all, our services are affordable,” says Chirambo.

Bokosi adds that they come to contribute to the sustainable growth of the local music industry.

“[Artists] submit your music to the store because others are already reaping enough from their talents. Our signees achieve mile-stones in the game like Purple C has scooped numerous awards including Best New Comer and Best Video during Nyasa Music Awards, and Best Dancehall act 2018 during Urban Music People Awards,” he says.

Though there is progress in the industry, Chirambo suggests the need for concerted efforts from stakeholders to heavily invest for artists and producers to make a good living.

The Samuels, who consider themselves pioneers of new sounds, have promised Malawians more amazing productions than expected.

One of the brand’s clients, an urban Gospel artist, Saxess, waxed lyrical of its services, saying the producers are among few that offer international standards in the country.

“Their song balancing is great. They help artists to tap greatness within themselves during studio sessions. Do not snore, let the standards keep on rising,” he said.