Unique choir brings out special CD

The Charmers Male Ensemble from Khutsong brought our their first CD recently, and it is already being scooped up by people who know the choir’s music.

The Herald’s journalist met with the choir at the Khutsong Anglican Church, where they are based, on Monday afternoon. Although the ensemble is well known in the area because they have won several competitions in the past, it is the first time that they have released a recording. The members who were part of the recording have been performing together for about eight years.

According to the choir’s chairman, Katlego Letlhake, their 12-track CD called “For the love of music” was recorded at the church last year. The well-known gospel singer, Namba Mthunzi also worked with the choir during the recording. The mastering of the CD, which contains Sotho and Xhosa choral and gospel choral tracks, was done in Johannesburg this year.

“People who have already bought and listened to it, told us that it is something different from what the other choirs in the area are doing. Although other choirs often clap their hands and use other sounds, all our music is done acapella, using only our voices. You can really feel the dynamics of the music in this way,” another member, Vuyani Mbene, told the Herald.

Members also said that, although several of the songs on the album have previously been recorded by other artists, they have been rearranged in ways never heard before. Although the CD has only been out for a week, several copies have already been sold, including at an event in Soweto where the choir performed last weekend. The members say their popularity may also be linked to them being the only strong choral group in the area. Unlike with other genres, singers of choral music must have some formal music training and must be able to read music, they explain.

“For us, this CD is a dream come true. Since we started the choir, we have always wanted to record a CD,” says Anele Nomandla, another member. “Many people have begged us to record a CD. We have now recorded it to give something back to them. Now, we once again ask the community to support us by buying the album,” says choir member, OJ Mutlane.

The choir members are enthusiastic. They say the CD has something for people of all ages. Most of them agree that they most enjoyed recording the last track, “Selina”. “There is extra feeling there and the song takes you somewhere else,” another member, Papi Letlhake, said.

In addition to performing music, the choir has also helped to take some of its members off the streets. As a result of this, they believe that listening to the music can also change other people’s lives. “It is not only about music for us. We want to change our community,” one of the choir’s members, Musa Mathibe, said.

For the time being, the CD will be the group’s only recording as they first want to develop their mass choir before making another. People can get in contact with them by calling 073 631 1959 or 074 417 3887. They can also visit the choir’s Facebook page or email them at charmerscme@gmail.com