Kampala — FOR an international artiste rooting for live music performances, his maiden show in his own country proved he has what it takes.

Mad Ice 'walked the talk' last Friday when he put up a great live band performance at Theatre La Bonita. Despite the small audience, his message was well received, judging by the cheers.

It was also good seeing him interact with his fans. Live music is a challenge in Uganda but Mad Ice showed that one can pull it off.

His audience seemed to agree with him as they nodded their heads to tunes such as Gwe Wange, Wewe Ndio Wangu and his latest single Mateso.

But for supporting acts Good Lyfe (Moze Radio and Weasel), Cindy and Ziggy Dee, it was safer to engage the services of DJ Shiru for their ususal track performances.

Mad Ice performed in different genres. For reggae fans, Nionyeshe Njia (show me the way), did the magic as did another version of Baby Gal.

He also paid tribute to fallen singer Miriam Makeba by singing her song, Malaika; sending some members of the audience into tears.

Mad Ice expressed his vocal ability on the sentimental Swahili piece, Carolina.

Apart from the American, other band members were locally sourced including back-up vocalist, Omrich, a gospel artiste.

Mad Ice closed with the punchy Oh Maria but fans still wanted more. However, if that is the case, they will have to wait until he returns from Finland in December.