LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

RATING: (WILD APPLAUSE)

Using their majestic voices and nothing else, Ladysmith Black Mambazo produces a full orchestra of sound on "Raise Your Spirit Higher (Wenyukela)," an album that spills over with uplifting harmonies and satisfying crescendos. It's "soul music" from the group of South Africans that gained international fame on Paul Simon's "Graceland." This release shows that the 10 singers need no accompaniment -- just their own inspiration, which translates into such beautiful songs as "Wamlul' Umshado" (about a wedding) and "Because I Love" (a tribute to their hometown). Founder Joseph Shabalala, whose wife was murdered during the making of this album, has said that when "bad things happen ... the only thing to do is raise your spirit higher." He deserves a big "amen." Performed in Zulu and English, the songs on "Raise Your Spirit Higher (Wenyukela)" resonate with joy. -- Jonathan Curiel

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

RAISE YOUR SPIRIT HIGHER (WENYUKELA)

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$17.98