By Burnett Munthali
LILONGWE — Malawi’s Peculiar Music Ministry is preparing to unveil its second studio album, Ndikakumbuka, in a gospel music event scheduled for September 13 at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe.
The 13-member a cappella ensemble is following up on its 2021 debut album, Nena za Chikondi, with a 13-song project centred on Christian faith, discipleship, God’s love and the message of salvation.
Music director Esau Samu said the new collection was inspired by the Christian message of God’s love for humanity and the hope associated with Jesus Christ.
He said the group intends to use the album as a platform for sharing its faith through music.
Rather than relying on conventional instrumentation, Peculiar Music Ministry builds its performances around carefully arranged voices, harmonies and chord progressions.
Samu said those attending the launch should expect an immersive worship experience focused on the music and spiritual message.
The album was produced by Gift Bamusi of Gifted People Records and features tracks including Ndikakumbuka, Yesu Chimwemwe, I Will Go, Ndionetse Yesu, Yesu Fumu, Ona, M’khale Nane, Like Jesus, Light After Darkness, Ndisamkonderenji, Sabbath Day, Ndinu Wakuyera and Tsiku Lokoma.
The launch programme will also bring together several gospel and vocal groups, including Vocal Fusion, Kamwana Family and Christ Echoes. Zambia’s Rusenzi is also expected to perform.
Vocal Fusion member Innocent Masanjala praised Peculiar Music Ministry for developing a distinctive vocal style.
He said the group’s ability to combine voices with creative harmonies has helped establish a recognisable sound within Malawi’s a cappella scene.
Masanjala added that Vocal Fusion is looking forward to contributing to what he described as an entertaining and memorable musical event.
Music enthusiast Andrew Sekeni also noted that Peculiar Music Ministry has established its own identity within the a cappella gospel tradition.
He said the ensemble demonstrates how the human voice can function as a complete musical instrument rather than merely replacing conventional instruments.
Sekeni expressed optimism that the group would maintain its creative approach as it introduces the new album to audiences.
The September launch is expected to give gospel music followers an opportunity to experience Peculiar Music Ministry’s latest work while highlighting the growing contribution of a cappella ensembles to Malawi’s Christian music landscape.
