Producer: Joseph Shabalala and Dave Love

Top Cuts: O Mmu Beno Mmu,” “Let’s Do It”

After 40 years as a vocal group Mambazo offers up an homage to the historic African warrior and leader Shaka Zulu. Bridging the gap between Western music and world music, this album is a return to their a cappella roots and traditions both in the execution of the material and in the primary use of their native language for the message. Fans of early doo wop, ethnic folk, and world beat should appreciate the hypnotic balance of breath and nuance.

-- by Eric A. Harabadian