UPENDO WA AJABU ALBUM PROFILE

Songs written & sang by: Holy Battalion; Guest appearance: Marira, Hermie, Eric (DRC Congo) & Timothy

Upendo wa Ajabu album broadcasts lyrical, musical, and biblical songs that reach out and touch the listener. Holy Battalion fivesome (Dennis a.k.a. Nabii, Bernard a.k.a. Bab’yao, Kennedy a.k.a. Onesh, Zippy and Salim a.k.a. Sir Lim) each display an ingenious ability to deliver the indispensable message of Christ in the form of revolving rap styles, riveting 'snap-your-neck' beats, and explosive themes that relate around the love of Christ and the call to holiness, praise and worship.

After a two-year layoff, Holy Battalion is back on the scene with a powerful new album that is bound to keep your head bobbin' for a long time to come.Upendo wa Ajabu marks first album in the group's six year existence; this one proves to be well worth the wait. This album done by Gdykym studio features 14 tracks of innovative, thought-provoking music .Upendo wa Ajabu album is solid, the music is interesting, the singing is excellent, and the lyrics are off the hook. The catchy melodies, tight arrangements, and the alternating lead singers and different rap styles will keep you on your feet asking for more.

Also noteworthy are the 'mega groove' selections "Wee sifu", "Hapa Hatutoki” and “Wonderful” all which proclaim that there is nothing wrong with 'getting crunk for Christ. The group also deviates from their afro-fusion style and does one song in “Lingala” – “Mapenzi” with beats reminiscent of the ones heard in Central Africa.

However, just when you think you have Holy Battalion figured out; the group changes the game on you. Battalion introduced live instruments to this project, with almost half of the album taking on this welcome element.

To begin with, crackling guitar riffs are present in full force as the album opens with the mellow track “Wonderful” (1 John 4:9-10) which is reminiscent of the 90’s G-funk sound. The song can be described as a remake of their chart topping single Upendo wa Ajabu but with the chorus done in English this time around. Haimie makes a guest appearance on this track and does a splendid job alongside the new lady of the group Zippy. The lads too handle their verses beautifully.

“Yangu barua” (Isaiah 41:13) maintains the same laid back feeling but with an African fused jazzy feeling. It is an interesting song done as a letter to God. Zippy teams up with Marira who makes a guest appearance and the combination is heavenly. The guitar licks are awesome, lovers of acoustic music will have this one on repeat. Notably, the third verse by Onesh stands out with a good mastery of Swahili language.

“Hapa Hatutoki” (Exodus 33:15) it is back to the basics on this one with a dancehall infused track which is “killed” from the word go. Marira makes a guest appearance again and does what she knows best. This apparently was their second single after Upendo wa Ajabu in 2004 but it still sounds fresh.

“Kuhani Mkuu” (Hebrews 4:14-16) they flip the script completely on this one, Nabii does the chorus and Zippy gets to do a whole verse by herself, and she is on point. The track has a distinct coastal feel to it. Makes you wish to hear Zippy hold the fort on her own.

“Fagia Yote” (Psalms 51:1-12) alternates between laid back and a ponderous rap style. It is a towering re-mixed anthem that is far much distinct from the original version done in 2003.The distinct mellow voice of Eric (a Congolese) who makes a guest appearance in the third verse spices the track with some Lingala tunes that leaves one craving for more.

“Worship you” (John 4:23-24) starts as a softened acoustic number before bursting into an afro-hip hop infested jam. Battalion’s ability to bring a street conscious swag while keeping the gospel at the forefront of their rhymes is vivid in this song which apparently is a fusion of three languages i.e. English, Swahili and Luo (one of Kenya’s local dialect)

A favorite on the album, “Upendo wa Ajabu” (John 15:13) is a mix of fine vocals with flowing verses and a catchy chorus. It is a song that reminisce the love of God having sent down his son Jesus Christ to redeem mankind from sin. Notably, this is the first song that was done by Holy Battalion in June 2004.

Similarly, the instantly catchy and somewhat wistful, "Ubarikiwe" (Psalms 100:1-5) trots along with acoustic guitars, and soulful voice of Marira a guest artiste, begging you to sing along.The "la-la-la" chorus, the worship and exaltation of the Almighty God, and the awesome combination of the rap style verses and backing vocals are a sweet joy to listen to.

“Nyumba ya Baba” –(Psalms 122:1) finds Holy Battalion rhyming over another smooth instrumental groove while partnering with Marira who again makes another guest appearance and sings powerful vocals and ad libs on the track.

“Wee Sifu”- (Psalms 150:1-6)The extremely infectious hook along with the West Coast funk sets the tone for a very funky ride in this song. It’s an all boys track with Bernardoz a.k.a. Bab’yao singing the chorus that would have obviously been sang by Zippy the first lady of the group. This song gives Holy Battalion a distinctive edge in the holy hip hop arena. The vibe is smooth and reflects Battalion’s maturity.

“Mwili mmoja” (Romans 12:4-8)–This song surprisingly will catch you off balance if you're not careful. It may start out a little slow, but it really builds to a climatic finish. It is a song whose main theme revolves around the responsibility each one has in the body of Christ.

“Wako Msaada”( Psalms 121:1-2) – Timothy a.k.a. Timo makes a welcome guest appearance adding his awesome vocal stylistics to this song. With hot lyrical flow from Dennis a.k.a. Nabii, this track is yet another hit to add to Holy Battalion’s growing list.

“Mapenzi” – (1 John 2:15-17)Proving that they can’t be put into a box, Holy Battalion hits us with some serious Lingala tune where they represent like nobody’s business. This song definitely warrants repeated spins on your CD player.

“Turinarie” –This is one of the heartfelt and deeply moving beautiful songs that I've heard in some time. Zippy reached really deep both musically and lyrically for this one and her delivery shows it. It has been done in a Kenyan local dialect, Kikuyu. Apparently it is a short song that also acts as the outro.

Overall, Holy Battalion crew has overhauled their sound with each and every record. It’s hard not to be impressed by a group that wants to continually challenge themselves sonically. Holy Battalion breathes with the aplomb of a group that has found a way to evolve into something slick and commercially viable. They have once again raised the bar – both for themselves, and for the fellow artistes in the industry.

Those who listen to Hip-Hope as a whole will be surprised at how well Holy Battalion holds its own and doesn’t need a hip hop track to sprinkle their holy rhymes, their mic skills do that on their own.

This project will definitely satisfy existing fans while creating a platform for a new audience. I think that this is just the start of something great for this group.

PRODUCED BY: Gideon Kymanzi a.k.a. Gdykym

HOLY BATTALION ALBUM NOW ON SALE!!

HOLY BATTALION DEBUT ALBUM is now on sale..where? In all KASSANGA MUSIC SHOPS(Gill house, Moi avenue, Tuskys (Accra road) opp stanchart. and in Mombasa -mwembe tayari)...Fresh hits including UPENDO WA AJABU, FAGIA YOTE, HAPA HATUTOKI, I WORSHIP YOU.
Watch Holy Battalion's new video "I WORSHIP YOU" - airing on CROSS OVER 101(NTV) & OFF THE HOOK(KTN) (Every sunday starting 18.10.2009)

PRESS KIT

Holy Battalion is a gospel recording group based in Nairobi, Kenya. The group has been together since early 2004. Holy Battalion’s music is influenced by singing groups like Cross Movement and 4th Avenue Jones. The group recorded and is soon releasing its first debut album “Upendo wa Ajabu” this month i.e. October 2009. There will be a first batch of 1000 CD’s in circulation and many electronic down loads after its release. Their latest songs will also be distributed to radio/TV stations i.e. Hope FM, Radio 316, Waumini FM, Baraka FM, Fish FM, Truth FM, Citizen Radio, KTN, NTV, CITIZEN TV and KISS TV among others. Additional information about the group and song samples will be found at: http://www.mwafrika.com/ , http://myspace.com/holybattalion, twitter and Face book

Artist Biography

“Initially I had a very shaky relationship with the Lord until 2002 when I got a job at Abba booksellers. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that one day I will be a gospel musician though all my siblings were accomplished musicians” says Dennis a.k.a. Nabii who later joined his sisters to form a singing group though he is quick to confess that he used to sing out of tune.

Bernard a.k.a. Bab’yao was born and raised in a Christian environment but that not withstanding; his walk with God then was full of rising and falling. He lived in Kariobangi North, a slum that was known for rampant crime and other societal ills but he overcame despite his age mates succumbing to pre-mature deaths. However, his life has since changed to a life of peace, joy, and happiness because of Christ. Bernard is an alumnus of Daystar University.” I started singing with an acappella group-Merged in Christ that made me nurture my talent to the level it is today” says Bernard.

Kennedy a.k.a. Onesh gave his life to Christ while attending a Word of Life camp during his school vacation in 1997. He is a final year student of Kenyatta University pursuing a degree in business administration. Born and brought up in Kariobangi North, Onesh has lived to represent Christ to the fullest around his neighborhood positively transforming lives.

Salim a.k.a. Sir Lim started music at the tender age of 12 and performed in different forums to entertain and minister the good news before meeting with Bernardoz in 2003 to form the group transfigured vessels. Born and brought up in Kariobangi North, Salim has been through many trials and tribulations but amidst all these, he has lived to represent Christ in all aspects.

Marira was the first lady to be signed in by the group in 2004. She has featured in 5 songs in Holy Battalion's debut album. Currently she is working on her solo projects.

Zippy who has featured in the album met the group in 2008. She has a passion for ministry and that is what propels her. She is a member of praise and worship in her church. Currently she is also working on her solo projects.

Violah, joined the group in February,2010. Just like Zippy n Marira, she has a passion for music ministry. She is currently working with the group while at the same time working on her solo projects.


Set Up Requirements at Venue
Preferably 5 microphones.
CD player.
Sound man.
A desk outside / inside the venue to display the audio CDs and other merchandise.

Transportation
Holy Battalion has a 5-Seater motor vehicle.

Booking Information
To book Holy Battalion please contact the undersigned:

Holy Battalion Ministry
P.O.Box 43534 -00100
Nairobi, Kenya
Mobile phone: (+254) -0750-545017; 0720-447051; 0736-481430
E-mail: holybattalion316@yahoo.com or hbattalion316@yahoo.com

CONTACT PERSONS. (Bookings & Album sales regional representative)


NAIROBI, NYANZA, WESTERN, N-EASTERN – Onesh & Salim
Call Now: - (Mob. no. 0720-447051)

RIFTVALLEY, COAST, EASTERN, CENTRAL – Nabii & Zippy
Call Now: - (Mob. No. 0736-481430)

COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD - Bernardoz
Call Now: - (Mob. +254-750- 545017)

HOLY BATTALION Releases Debut Album

Management and booking: holybattalion316@yahoo.com
Phone: +254-720-447051,0736-481430 & +254-750-545017
October 2009

PRESS RELEASE

The talented GOSPEL music group from Nairobi, Kenya is set to release their exciting debut album, a move which will thrill their army of fans across the country and beyond.
HOLY BATTALION is preparing to release their debut album later this month, marking a huge stage in the career of these multi-talented singers & songwriters.
HOLY BATTALION, who are based in Nairobi, Kenya, have just put the final touches to the album, and are now preparing for the imminent release that will hopefully build upon their fan base and get their music heard by more people than ever.
The album, ‘Upendo wa Ajabu’, consists of fourteen original songs written and sang by the group members i.e. Dennis a.k.a. Nabii, Bernardoz a.k.a. Bab’yao, Kennedy a.k.a. Onesh, Salim a.k.a. Sir-Lim and Zippy. The songs each provide a combination of high-energy guitar playing, melodious vocals and heartfelt lyrics. The music is punctuated throughout with elements of classic hip-hop and afro-fusion.
The album was recorded at Gdykym Studios in Nairobi, and its creation was supported by guest musicians i.e. Marira, Hermie ,Eric (DRC Congo) and Timothy. It was produced by Gideon Kimanzi a.k.a. Giddy.
The theme of the album underlies the message that Holy Battalion have preached through over recent years. ‘Upendo wa Ajabu’ reveals the stunning array of influences from numerous artists and genres of music from across the globe i.e. Cross Movement and 4th Avenue Jones among others.
Holy Battalion existence has certainly been full of experiences. Not long ago, their song “Upendo wa Ajabu” was nominated in the song of the year category at the gospel groove awards. As well as that, they also appeared on radio interviews with Easy FM & Baraka FM and a telephone interview with a radio station in Tanzania. The group has held numerous concerts across the country as well as in the neighboring country, Tanzania. These are unforgettable experiences that just go to show how far the group has already made a name for themselves.
Almost all Holy Battalion members were brought up in very musical families. Their parents exposed them to a wealth of music at their tender age. As a result, their styles have developed and they’ve incorporated other sounds and genres which have all made their way into ‘Upendo wa Ajabu’. The album is a reflection of their influences over the years and the changes that they’ve experienced while growing up.
The album will be launching shortly, and fans are encouraged to visit Mwafrika.com, holy battalion-my space acc, holybattalion blog which provides everything you could want to know about the group. As well as checking out the latest video of one of their songs- “I worship you” and also photos of the group in action. This will be possible if you join the Holy Battalion group on face book and twitter which also give frequent updates on upcoming gigs and new releases.

SONG ANALYSIS: "I WORSHIP YOU."

I WORSHIP YOU.

I Worship you by Holy Battalion.
Written & Sang by: Salim, Nabii, Bernardoz, Ken and Zippy. Reviewed by: Gideon Kimanzi

ALBUM: UPENDO WA AJABU

There are a few worship songs that Holy Battalion has written.
Some may think "Upendo wa Ajabu" is, simply because it took the airwaves by storm in year 2004. "Hapa Hatutoki & Fagia Yote" had also drawn some degree of positive comment from the public in year 2006 and 2004 respectively.
"I Worship you" is a departure from the usual Holy Battalion lyrics that are always in one language that is Swahili. It is a song that has been done in three languages i.e. English, Swahili and dholuo (one of the native language in Kenya).
The underlying theme is one of worship – dedicated to our Almighty magnificent God. In this light, it reminds me of "Upendo wa Ajabu" - simply because of the outcome. Praises to God seems to predominate the music.
The first verse mainly focuses on one of the major reasons for worshipping the Lord. It dwells on the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is brought out clearly by Kennedy a.k.a. Onesh in his first two lines in dholuo;
“Gima temo wacho ni bi uru kuom Kristo, Nikech en ma no tho, e musalaba malo”. ( Translated in English-“My plea to you is come now to Christ, because He is the one who died on the cross for our sake”
Then Dennis a.k.a. Nabii emphasis on the reason why we need to praise the Lord because He overcame death and He is alive forever more;
“Nimepata ingine nafasi kuleta Yangu kali mistari, watu wakubali hali ni shwari kwa maana yeye ndiye Mwokozi yuu hai (yuu hai)” (Translated in English-“ Let me take this opportunity to sprinkle my lyrics, let people acknowledge they are good because our Lord Jesus Christ is alive( He’s alive”
The second verse places more emphasis on individual testimonies and pledging of allegiance to worship the lamb. This is brought out in the opening lines of verse two done by Salim.
“It’s another day, it’s another time, everybody rise, and everybody come, Let us rejoice.”
Then Bernardoz interposes with his lyrics which he tends to personalize in form of a testimony by telling us his reasons for as to why we need to worship the Lord. He concludes by calling upon the people to come taste the fruits of worshipping our creator.
“Worship the Lord morning time till evening,…….Praise from me lips his face me a seeking, more and more in love with Him, Come taste and see, how the Lord is good, He is merciful and His love is true. Come taste and see what He has done for me, believe you will receive blessings flowing everyday.”

The third Verse climaxes with a worship done in Swahili by Zippy, who goes to the heart of worship with her strong soprano. At this point, the rhythm of the track crescendos and really summarizes the song;
“Tunakuabudu, tunakuinua, tunakubariki, sifa zote ni zako”(Translated in English: We WORSHIP you, we lift you up, we bless your name, all praises to our God”)
The chorus is repeated thrice, and then kind of a fade out with chanting in the background.
“Oh Lord I worship you, Oh Lord I adore you, Oh Lord ooh yes it’s true, Until the end of time and thereafter”
As in "Wee sifu", Worship takes the predominance in this song and Holy Battalion members once again showed great depth and a sense of worship in this song as to the feelings and inner gratitude portrayed in their lyrics.

A MAJOR COMEBACK!!!!

Holy Battalion is a fast rising, highly talented group of 4 young men and one lady based in Nairobi, Kenya who share a common interest in communicating the Gospel message through music. They are Dennis Mwangeka a.k.a "Nabii”; Bernard Omondi a.k.a. "Bernardoz Bab’yao”; Kennedy Masawa a.k.a. "Onesh”; Salim Cyrus a.k.a. Sir Lim and Zippy.

Formed in 2004, the group has grown both spiritually and musically. They have endeavored to write music wholly based on scriptures, and that is especially relevant to today's youth who are constantly being bombarded by sexual innuendo from the secular media. Their debut album with 14 tracks christened “Upendo wa Ajabu” is a culmination of various genres of music pieced together by Gideon “Gdykym” Kimanzi the Producer/CEO of Gdykym studios. This is their first album as a group. The songs in the album include; Upendo wa Ajabu, Fagia yote (Remix), Hapa Hatutoki, among others.
Holy battalion on the other hand has done collaborations with Hermie, Timo, Marira and Eric (DRC Congo.)

They single out their home churches for the tremendous support and their families/friends that have supported them through their musical journey.The group draws inspiration solely from God and his Word, particularly from these two verses. “Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” Eph 6:11“God has shown us his love by sending His only son into the world, so that we could have life through Him” I John 4:9
Holy Battalion debut album has been finalized and it is ready to hit the market on the 25th October 2009. They will also be launching their album in Nairobi with subsequent launches to be held countrywide on future dates to be announced later.

Watch their latest video “I worship you” currently airing on the various television networks.

To get more information about Holy Battalion, join the group on FACEBOOK or TWITTER.

HERE WE ARE!!

HOLY BATTALION IN THE HIZZLE!!!