Spreading her solo wings for the first time, the dynamic Thandiswa (Mazwal) steps away from her wildly popular band Bongo Maffin to present what critics have called “the sounds of new South Africa.”  The recording comes on the heels of the country’s 10-year anniversary of throwing off the shackles of apartheid and embracing democracy. 

On “Zabalaza” (means rebellion”) Thandiswa showcases ebullient, rhythmic music that freely incorporates modern pop, soul, jazz fusion and indigenous beats from her homeland of Transkei, once treated by apartheid regime as a black “reservation.” 

But rather than enlist the aid of top South African players Thandiswa help open auditions that attracted more then 400 young domestic musicians.  Out of this group she assembled a learn and hungry band that literally electrifies the singer’s long-simmering grooves.  Songs are rendered in English and Xhosa, and they crackle with joy and energy, Thandiswa’s powerful, soulful vocals dancing among the grooves. 

Whether American listeners identify with South African issues, they’ll still be moved by Thandiswa’s tribal rhythms, modern grooves and international pop sensibilities. 

Eric Feber