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Loads of bands reform for various reasons, but We Intend To Cause Havoc (aka W.I.T.C.H.) was one of the bands I thought that I would never get a chance to see perform. One of the original so-called “Zamrock” bands that formed in Zambia along with Chrissy Tembo, Ngozi Family, Amanaz and others, they created a potent hybrid of western psychedelic and garage music with a distinctly African twist.
Fading into obscurity in the early 2000s, Dutch-born Jacco Gardner was primarily responsible for getting lead singer Emmanuel Chanda back on stage and helped pull together a band to back him (definitely check out the excellent documentary that goes into detail of this phase). Abetting that effort is the excellent reissue program spearheaded by Now Again, which prompted the band to create its newest record in nearly 40 years.
Chanda is a natural front man, expressive while singing and funny during the between song breaks. He enlisted two relatives to provide backing vocals and dancing, while the rest of the band expertly complemented the material, blazing acid rock solos, impeccably smart drumming delivered via a super minimal kit and flourishes like keyboards and congas.
The show ended with opening band Rahill on stage as well as several audience members who danced and sang along, squeezing the last of the energy reserves. Uplifting experience!
Rahill:
