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Blackdiamond

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
A new group, Blackdiamond, have joined the Gqom Music gravy train and will be launching their EP, Gqom Life, by throwing an elaborate All White Pool Party in Bulawayo today.

The album comprises eight tracks written by Bulawayo’s Saidi “Pro Da god” Manjelo, Shane “Sugar Shane” Manjelo and Everson “DJ Ery” Madumeja who are collectively known as Blackdiamond.

Nesbitt Castle in the leafy suburb of Hillside will be the setting for the party. More performances will be from Antivirus Crew, DJ Liz and DJ Nospa with an after-party scheduled for Club Cosmopolitan.

A fashion show hosted by Bulawayo’s fashion brand, Ubuntu Clothing who are tailors of the group’s outfits, will also be held during the party to spice up activities.

“Creatively, this album represents the sound of a typical weekend in Bulawayo. We named the EP Gqom Life because of the heavy influence Gqom music has had on the Bulawayo music scene,” said Blackdiamond member, Pro da god.

The album was recorded at Yard 26 Studios in Bulawayo’s Montrose suburb and mastered by renowned South Africa-based sound engineer Adam Lewis.

The group also worked with some of South Africa’s best Gqom producers DJ Skhu Masterbeat, Catzico and D Nkoh.

“When creating this project, we made a point to ensure a quality process at all stages from recording vocals, production, mixing and mastering. We wanted to create an album which would compete on an international stage.

“We strongly believe we achieved exactly that with this EP,” said Pro da god.

Attendees will enjoy a free champagne reception and light snacks which will be served throughout the event. After the launch, Pro da god said the group plans to produce a DVD for the album and have called on the services of award-winning videographer Andy Cutta.

“We’re planning to shoot a high-end music video in December using footage from the album launch. Bulawayo native Andy Cutta will be directing the video so people can expect a great video.”