13 Aug 2015

His new record might be called My Testimony, but to Allan Ranthepha (Allan Kay) his latest album is all that and more. Not only does it converse a crystal clear message, it is also gleaming, lively and full of upbeat pop gems

Allan Kay is the newest artist signed to Alante Records, having released an album and another album independently in the past years. 

His introduction on the label is a 10 track album that is drenched with colourful synthesizers and electronic sounds blended together with Allan’s smooth voice.

The album opens with warm voices on track 1 titled, Jeso ke mmoloki. 

It is a version of the classic hymn of the same name, and shares very much the same sentiments.

He shows off his wonderful voice amongst atmospheric contemporary gospel as he sings about finding God’s comfort in the darker and harder times as it goes on to say, Jeso ke mmoloki waka, o nkgethetse bodulo, ke a morata oa nthatha.
He then climbs upon this hope on He loves me so.

It stops along but again has such an uplifting arrangement. Jehovah Adonai, is full of joy, with o ta lo naya phenyo just as another reminder of the hope that we have amidst all struggles and suffering which we encounter in our daily lives. 

With track 5, titled Remember me, as a reminder that all we need to do is worship our lord. 
Next to last track, track 8, Le etla, is the darkest, moodiest of the tracks on My Testimony.

 It is also reflective and talks about the return of Jesus Christ, reminding Christians of the judgement day.
The best moment on the record is saved until almost at the very end, which is the magnificent track 9, titled o tshepile mang. Allan becomes an inquirer as he investigates to find out as to whom they trusts as they do not pray.

He asks the question: O tshephile mang fa o sa rapele jeso Christ? In a stunning climax, the story turns to focus on Jesus – a reminder that through all the hardships and suffering, we need to trust and dwell in the house of the lord.

This is a common song that has an artful use of storytelling and really does hit home that Jesus identifies with us in our suffering, because he has suffered for us.
Crystal Clear gives a real taste for Allan Kay’s musical talent and song writing ability.  The album will be launched on the 29^th August at Westwood, with supporting acts from South African artists, Pakie Ndou and our very own GK Gospel Group, Caesar Motsoaka, AFM Praise and hip hop artist, Restoration Grace. ENDS