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Sample Track 1:
"Wenyukela" from Raise Your Spirit Higher -- Wenyukela
Sample Track 2:
"Wenza Ngani?" from Raise Your Spirit Higher -- Wenyukela
Sample Track 3:
"Music Knows No Boundaries" from Raise Your Spirit Higher -- Wenyukela
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Raise Your Spirit Higher -- Wenyukela
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CD Review
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Billboard, CD Review >>

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO
Album Title: Raise Your Spirit Higher—Wenyukela
Producer(s): Joseph Shabalala
Genre: WORLD
Label/Catalog Number: Heads Up International HUCD 3083
Release Date: Jan. 27
Source: Billboard Magazine
Originally Reviewed: January 17, 2004


You do not have to understand Zulu to understand the message in the music relayed by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The South African group's signature blend of tight harmonies and spirituality resonate on this, its Heads Up debut. The group—still led by original organizer Joseph Shabalala—rhythmically discourses on such issues as death, apartheid and freedom. As always, Ladysmith vocally evokes the power of music. The opening title track sets the stage, aided by a lush, captivating arrangement. Especially poignant is "Tribute." Featuring Shabalala's grandchildren rapping in English, the cut pays homage to Shabalala's wife of 28 years, who was shot and killed outside their South African church. As another song on the album aptly notes, Ladysmith is proof that "Music Knows No Boundaries."—GM  01/17/04 >> go there
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