OkayAfrica, Bateleur Brewery and The Alchemist Bar joined forces to launch a new live music series, Hand-Forged in Kenya, which is focused on showcasing rising Kenyan talent to fans, both locally and globally.
Curated by our Kenyan-based contributor Camille Storm, the long-awaited second edition took place on Saturday, August 10th at The Alchemist Bar in Nairobi.
Taio kicked off the night on the decks delivering a superb DJ set that got bodies moving on the dance floor almost immediately. By the time Bahati Bookings got on stage, the floor was packed with a curious audience. The budding music collective, consisting of artists Ekumbo, Baraka and DJ Supersun, had all eyes on them as they performed a groovy alternative hip-hop set.
Hand-Forged in Kenya: Vallerie Muthoniwww.youtube.com
The crowd went wild once newcomer Chris Kaiga came on stage. The fast-rising rapper got the party really started his dance-ready genge-inspired set and the audience particularly couldn't wait for him to perform his breakout hit song "Zimenice" featuring Tezzla.
Singing sensation Vallerie Muthoni got on stage with her drummer to give an incredibly lively rendition of her Pisces SZN EP that came out earlier this year. One of the highlights was the music video premiere for her single "Spicy SZN" which features rising afro-jazz singer Le Ru and Taio Tripper. It was a beautiful moment when they all united on stage to perform the song while the video premiered on the screen.
Nairobi's finest DJ Mix Master Lenny finished off the night with an incredible set which was based on Kenyan music from different eras. Just like the debut edition, this party went on till the early morning hours.We definitely can't wait to see what the final edition of the year looks like.
All photography by Reuben Silot (@reubensilot).
