Brian Temba showcases his indisputable talent

I hav just returned from La Toscana at Montecasino, where Brian Temba finally launched his critically acclaimed debut album to an inviting crowd. With a largely visible presence of the media, his family, other entertainers and the general public, the Pretoria-born crooner sizzled as he proved that he is giving Something Better, as far as music is concerned in Mzansi.

Arriving just minutes after he started performing, I couldn't help getting in the groove of things. Brian Temba performed most of the songs from Something Better, introducing each song with a short synopsis of what the song was about and what inspired it. Among these were the smash debut hit single Dominoes, Don't Let Me Fall, the title track Something Better and two of my most favourites, Early Morning and Better Then. Speaking of Better Then, he mentioned that although the song is dedicated to his late brother, it's also for everybody who has lost a loved one. I couldn't agree more as the moving lyrics resonate and remind you of the people in your life who have passed on. Sporadically, video clips would be played, documenting his journey through the process of creating Something Better.

Another great moment of the night was when he performed the only duet on Something Better called Where This Is Going, which he originally did with Sharlene Hector, this time belting it out with the beautiful and talented Durban singer Lungi Naidoo. It didn't end there as Brian Temba gave us a rousing rendition of the Kate Bush classic This Woman's Work, and I must mention that Kate would be as proud as she was when Maxwell covered the same song when he did his MTV Unplugged recording in '97. He continued to showcase his vocal prowess as he dabbled in short verses of some of his favourite songs from his favourite singers like Boyz II Men, Anthony Hamliton and Tevin Campbell, to name but a few. To show he hasn't forgotten his roots, he broke into a few gospel numbers he did in his hey days with outfits like Family Factory and Joyous Celebration. Moreover, it was sweet experiencing first-hand the view of relationship Brian Temba has with his business partner and friend Mandisa Makalima, who looked stunning by the way in a strapless knee-length frock.

Another noteworthy experience was the use an amazing 6-piece band, led by super producer Alexis Faku. Each band member did a sterling job in complementing Brian's indisputable voice. Activites for the night included a Montecasino-sponsored prize-giveaway where 3 very ecstatic ladies walked away with 3 dates with Brian; one having lunch at a restaurant of her choice at Montecasino, another taking to the air on an air-balloon, and the last one watching a movie of her choice at Nu Metro Montecasino.

It was a great night, filled with great music, great bunch of people and resulted in great memories. I must mention that Azania Ndoro did a superb job as a compeer for the evening. Something Better is an amazing body of work. Testimony is borne in Brian Temba being nominated twice at the Channel O Music Video Awards taking place in about 2 weeks (check out www.channelo.tv to vote). Speaking of music awards, the album is a beast, therefore I'm terribly scared of whoever will be nominated against Brian Temba at the SAMA's next year. The album is in stores now, go and cop yourself Something Better.