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CD Review
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Cosmos Gaming, CD Review >>
Ladysmith Black Mambazo has come quite a long way. Having existed as a group since before the end of Apartheid and gaining international exposure thanks to Paul Simon in 1986, this South African a cappella group has gained critical acclaim for many of their albums. 2006 brought us Long Walk to Freedom, a celebration of the group’s long existence and exposure to international listeners and saw Ladysmith Black Mambazo collaborating with a number of American musicians to somewhat mixed results. Now, the group is back with Ilembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu which is a return to form. For fans of the classic style of this South African singing group, this latest release is a worthy addition to your collection. Obviously not everyone can appreciate a cappella music (as admittedly it doesn’t change a lot due to being entirely dependent upon vocals) but as always, Ladysmith Black Mambazo delivers. Ilembe is a return to form as there are very few English compositions, with the group once again focusing on the traditional Isicathamiya style. Alternating between religious themes and themes of morality, Ilembe offers an interesting mix between more traditional ideas and modern ones. As one would expect, all of the singers sound great and fill up the album with their sound.
Those who may have been disappointed with 2006’s Long Walk to Freedom will find this new album to be a welcome return to Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s traditional style. Additionally, while a cappella music may not be for everyone those who haven’t yet experienced this group for themselves will find Ilembe to be a great introduction into the long legacy that they have made for themselves.
By: Chris Dahlberg 12/09/07 >> go there
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