LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO
Raise Your Spirit Higher - Wenyukela
(Heads Up)
***

South Africa 's favorite sons haven't been heard from for a few years now. Raise Your Spirit Higher — Wenyukela marks their first release of new material since 1997, and their first release of any kind since 1999's Live at Royal Albert Hall. The album doesn't tread any new ground, but it's a warm, gentle collection of songs celebrating African life and praising Jesus. The harmonies are as rich and deep as ever, and the rhythms precise and persuasive. Joseph Shabalala, the lead singer, producer and founder of the aural feast, continues to front things with his quiet, smoky voice. Other members of the group interject clicks, tongue rolls, whispers, ululations and chuckles over the persistently rhythmic a cappella lines.

The last several tracks on the release are in English and tackle subjects as diverse as drunk driving, ethnic pride and music's universality. The lyrics are simple yet profound. “Tribute,” the surprising final track, is a short, unaccompanied hip-hop number by Shabalala's grandsons. It's a touching and riveting song about the 2002 murder of Shabalala's wife Nellie, and the young men are less angry than encouraging in this sweet and fitting eulogy. In the end, the future of this nearly 40-year-old musical institution looks secure.

— Peggy Latkovich