Rwanda saxophonist Methuselah Mbonimpa, best known as Water Sax, is preparing for an official launch of his second studio album, Wazimba, on November 28 at Mundi Center.
The project is, according to the artiste, a deeply personal project rooted in his upbringing on Nkombo Island and shaped by years of musical evolution.
Wazimba comprises10 tracks that weave together traditional Rwandan sounds with contemporary Afro-fusion. They include Winkanga, Wazimba, Haki Yako, Semanza, Because of You, Nyamulobo, Turira, Yaga Yaga, Your Dream, and Amani.
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The album&039;s title, Wazimba, translates to "hating something that doesn't belong to you"—an expression that speaks to envy and coveting what others possess.
Water Sax explained that the album is a personal tribute to where he comes from.
"My album is inspired by my roots on Nkombo Island and my journey as a musician. I wanted to blend traditional Rwandan sounds with modern Afro-fusion and express my identity through the saxophone,” he told The New Times.
Wazimba comes to life five years after Water Sax’s debut album Maringoringo. It arrives at a time when live instrumental music, especially saxophone-driven sounds, is steadily rising in Rwanda. He says the instrument’s role in shaping the country’s contemporary music is becoming more evident.
"The saxophone is becoming more important in Rwanda’s music scene. It brings emotion, depth, and a unique live sound that connects tradition with modern music. I’m proud to be part of that growth,” he said.
For the album launch, the saxophonist is orchestrating a full-scale performance centered on rich African rhythms and intricate arrangements.
He will be joined onstage by a 14-member ensemble, featuring a diverse array of instruments that reflect the fusion at the heart of Wazimba.
A 2016 graduate of Nyundo School of Music, Water Sax trained in vocals, guitar, saxophone, clarinet, and songwriting. Today, he performs across multiple genres—including Afro-jazz, pop, and modernized traditional music—drawing on his multifaceted instrumental expertise to craft a sound distinctly his own.