In the year following a time of intense personal tragedy for Ladysmith leader Joseph Shabalala, Wenyukela is an album of joyous isicathamiya sounds, a sort of throwing-down-of-the-gauntlet to misfortune and sadness.

Recent years have seen several musical departures of varying success and critical acclaim, including voyages of collaboration with artists such as Dolly Parton, Lesley Garrett and the Lighthouse Family, as well as a harshly judged 2002 album of remixes. From the touching sincerity of the opening track, a tribute by the Shabalala grandchildren to their murdered grandmother, Nellie, to the uplifting "Black is Beautiful," this record is definitely a return to form for Africa's most famous choral export. Other high points include the vocally dexterous, click-heavy "Uqinisil'Ubaba" and the gently swinging "Wamlul'Umshado".

If you have been a fan of the Ladysmith Black Mambazo package in the past, then Wenyukela will not disappoint. If you are a newcomer, this is a vary worthwhile point of initiation. It is the old tried and tested formula at its very best. The lyrics sung in English are of dubious virtue, but the quality of melody, harmony and performance is top notch.