Tfal tax-Xemx is a new album by artist Michael Azzopardi that unfolds around the notion of renewal. The songs, which are energetic and playful and at times soft and meditative, bring together the voices of a children’s choir and musicians of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. Tfal tax-Xemx, a reference to Fille du Soleil by Francis Lai, also features contributions from established local artists, including composer and arranger Veronique Vella, and producer Jimmy Bartolo, who once again brought my music to life.

The evening will open with Indian singer Jomy Thotekat James, a fresh voice on the scene, performing hymns in both Maltese and his native language, Malayalam. Azzopardi will be performing the album in its entirety, accompanied by his band, Il-Klieb tal-Wulf, and members of the Malta National Children’s Choir who were part of the album’s creation from its inception.

Supporting act:

Jomy Thotekat James

Jomy, a 29-year-old singer from Kochi, Kerala, India, now calls Malta home, where he works as a postman. Passionate about music, he plays the guitar and sings traditional church songs in both Malayalam and Maltese, blending the sounds of his roots with the culture of his new home. Deeply inspired by his faith and heritage, Jomy’s performances are a heartfelt celebration of the connection between different cultures. For the first time, he will take the stage to share his voice with a Maltese audience. For Azzopardi, Jomy represents the ever-changing nature of our region, a core theme of this album.

Ancillary event: 

Tuesday, 25th March 2025 at 7 pm
Studio B, Spazju Kreattiv

Click here to register for the ancillary event

Songwriter Michael Azzopardi and Producer Jimmy Bartolo will explore the production journey behind the new album, Tfal tax-Xemx.

Together, they will explain the entire music-making process, from first demos to the final mastered tracks, through a behind-the-scenes look.

Pre-Production – Crafting the album’s concept, working with a children’s choir, collaborating with musicians, and writing the demos.
The Role of a Producer – Recording, producing, and shaping the sound with artists.
Mixing & Mastering – Bringing the music to life and creating the final polished sound.
Funding Strategies – How independent artists can support their projects.

Whether you’re a musician, or simply a music lover, this event will offer insights into the art and craft of making music.

Cast & Creative Team

The band:
Jimmy Bartolo (lead guitar)
John J. Bartolo (drums)
Samwel Mallia (bass)
Samuel Attard (Keyboards)
Michael Azzopardi (vocals, acoustic guitar and keyboards)

The choir:
Lisa Spiteri
Hailey Kanitao
Giorgia S. Fiore
Emma Nicole Lia
Stephanie Spiteri (Choir director)

Lights:
Toni Gialanze

Photography and filming:
Elisa von Brockdorff
Matthew Calleja (Videocafe)

Album Artwork:
Steven Scicluna

Partners & Collaborators