Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Raise Your Spirit Higher
Heads Up International
www.mambazo.com
www.headsup.com
The South African singing group Ladysmith Black Mambazo was formed in the 1960's by Joseph Shabalala. They've made over 40 recordings before this one. Ladysmith came to the attention of many Americans when they were featured on Paul Simon's Graceland album in 1986. The group has recorded with such diverse musicians as Stevie Wonder, Dolly Parton and George Clinton. They've performed at many ceremonial concerts including for Queen Elizabeth's 50th Anniversary as a Monarch.
LBM's gorgeous a cappella harmony style is borrowed from a traditional singing style developed by black workers in South African mines. All the tracks are done without instrumentation, but the rhythms of the singing and vocalizations will carry you away. Most are sung in Zulu with a few in English, but the language isn't important. Shabalala says, "without hearing the lyrics, this music gets into the blood, because it comes from the blood."
This is a beautiful recording. Shabalala is also a Christian minister and many of the songs celebrate his faith. If you already know their work you'll love this recording. The rich, but gentle sound of Ladysmith Black Mambazo could lull a baby to sleep or lift the spirits of a heavy heart.
Key Track: Because I Love You
Reviewed by: Keith Quillen
01/27/04 >> 
