Real-life legend Shaka Zulu is remembered for being one of the great unifiers of his nation in the 18th Century. He is said to have been a hard-headed but brilliant warrior and king who was ultimately assassinated by his own half-brothers. It is in his tribute that LadySmith Black Mambazo, the famous acapella group that Paul Simon brought Stateside, presents this collection of original music composed by founder Joseph Shabalala.

The group continues to make the music that their fans expect them to hear—tunes sung a capella with a deep spiritual message expressed in English and their native Zulu. On the opener, “Hiala Nami,” the message has to do with the importance of people coming together to do something positive for their brethren. On “Let’s Do It,” they sing about the dangers of politics, advising us to live in an honest manner “for the future generation.” On the English language “Prince of Peace,” Shabalala simply asks us to pray and express love to God with “rhythm of harmony and balance.”

Neophytes who learned about Ladysmith Black Mambazo through the Lion King soundtrack will marvel about the group’s range and their ability to make exceptional music. They are best enjoyed however, in a live format where their trademark dance moves and vocals can be fully appreciated together.

-- by Ernest Barteldes