Album Review: Chimurenga Renaissance – Now Is The Time

Chimurenga Renaissance’s Now Is The Time is a genre-bending sonic experience that fuses Zimbabwean traditional sounds with hip-hop, electronic beats, and experimental production. Spearheaded by Tendai “Baba” Maraire, known for his work with Shabazz Palaces and as the son of legendary Zimbabwean musician Dumisani Maraire, the album is a deeply layered and thought-provoking journey that bridges past, present, and future.

Sound and Production

From the first track, Now Is The Time immerses listeners in hypnotic mbira rhythms, intricate percussion, and bass-heavy beats that feel both organic and futuristic. Maraire’s signature ability to blend Zimbabwean instrumentation with modern hip-hop aesthetics is on full display. Tracks like Shapeshifters and Say Less showcase his intricate wordplay, effortlessly switching between English and Shona, creating a cross-cultural dialogue that speaks to themes of identity, struggle, and resilience.

The production on this album is richly textured, often incorporating eerie synths, deep basslines, and polyrhythmic drum patterns that give it a distinct, otherworldly vibe. Unlike mainstream hip-hop, which often follows conventional song structures, Now Is The Time challenges the listener with its unconventional arrangements and experimental soundscapes, making it a rewarding experience for those willing to dig deep.

Lyrical Themes and Message

Lyrically, Now Is The Time is as much an activist statement as it is an artistic one. Maraire uses the album to explore themes of African identity, colonial history, Black empowerment, and the spiritual connection to ancestors. Songs like Taj and Now Is The Time serve as powerful calls to action, urging listeners to reflect on the past while pushing toward a liberated future.

There’s a sense of urgency in Maraire’s delivery, as if he’s channeling the voices of his ancestors through the music. This is especially evident in tracks that blend spoken word elements with poetic lyricism, creating a dynamic listening experience that goes beyond mere entertainment—it’s an education and a meditation on African heritage.

Standout Tracks

• “Taj” – A fusion of hip-hop storytelling and traditional Zimbabwean melodies that encapsulates the essence of Chimurenga Renaissance.

• “Shapeshifters” – A hard-hitting anthem with deep-rooted historical and political messages.

• “Say Less” – An electrifying track with a pulsating beat that blends perfectly with Maraire’s rapid-fire delivery.

• “Now Is The Time” – A song that serves as a direct call to arms, encouraging cultural pride and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Now Is The Time is an ambitious and bold project that showcases Chimurenga Renaissance’s ability to merge past and present, tradition and innovation. The album may not cater to mainstream tastes, but for those who appreciate boundary-pushing music with a powerful message, it’s a must-listen.

Maraire continues to carve out a unique space in hip-hop and world music, proving that African storytelling, traditional sounds, and futuristic production can coexist beautifully. Now Is The Time is not just an album—it’s a movement, a manifesto, and an artistic statement that challenges listeners to engage with history while embracing the future.

Rating: 9/10

A hypnotic, thought-provoking, and sonically rich experience that redefines what hip-hop and African music can be.