South Africa music reviews
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Music reviews for "South Africa" sorted by average review score:
Blimundo
Released in Audio CD by Lusafrica (08 May, 2001)
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Artist: Bau
Tracks:
- Jombo
- Melodia D'Esperanca
- Noite Serena
- Toy
- Bau
- Papa Juquim Paris
- Blimundo
- Fox Lumy
- Ronco Di Mar
- Regresso
- Flor Formosa
Average review score: 
music to live and love byWe love this cd! Bau's music is very moving. You can't stop listening to it. We have 4 of his cd's so far, and are always looking for more of his music. No matter what nationality you are, you can't help but enjoy the beautiful sounds of the violin, guitars, etc.
Try it, you'll like itBau is an undiscovered phenomenon--which is too bad, because this album proves the man knows how to handle a violin! The music evoked everything from a French country wedding to a bittersweet melody to bluegrass. I loved it and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good violin, some dinner party background music, or just sitting around and feeling mellow kind of music.
Bolomakote
Released in Audio CD by Intuition (21 October, 1993)
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Artist: Farafina
Tracks:
- Mogoman Wouele
- Bolomakote Mahama
- Mandela
- Nianiae Lomina
- Kodine
- Samba
- Patron Mousso
- Goulikanairi Ye
- Kabouroudibi
- Kauayele Va
- Farafina
Average review score:
DETAILS!This CD is real big on balafone themes (sounds like marimba, but less vibrato). Which makes it go great with drumming. It makes your feet shuffle and your pelvis twitch, I don't care how old you are or what color you are or if anybody is watching you. Marvelous singing (which I usually don't like) and very creative, highly ornamented compositions.
I like their other CD "Faso Denou" even better, but for entirely different reasons. Like the other reviewer, I don't appreciate the John Hassle CD that uses Farafina as background. The only way I can stomach the "Flash of Spirit" CD is by listening to "Bolomakote" immediately preceding. Then it's kind of interesting.
Unmatched percussion artists.For percussion lovers, this album should not be missed. I am a longtime fan of African and African-Diaspora music, and this is one group I never grow tired of, no matter how often I listen. Farafina has an energy which exalts and inspires; it is joyful in the extreme. Their other CDs are wonderful too. The one with John Hassell is quite different, and I don't like it as well. I have every cd they have made or appeared on. They have my highest recommendation!
Cape Verdean Melancholy
Released in Audio CD by Evolver (29 July, 2003)
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Artist: Bau
Tracks:
- Raquel
- Bau
- Situacoes Triangulares
- Blimundo
- Luanda
- Toy
- Pescador
- Ronco Di Mar
- Top D'Coroa
- Cucli
- Luz Dum Estrella
- Nha Morgandinha
- Jailza
- Bonus Track
Average review score:
A monster musician who builds his own instrumentsRufino Almeida (a.k.a. Bau)'s all-instrumental CAPE VERDEAN MELANCHOLY presents a monster musician who builds his own instruments, has mastered several styles of music from swing and jazz fusion to morna (the melancholic music of the Cape Verte islands of Africa), and who plays guitar, violin and cavaquinho (known in Hawaii as the ukulele) with equal skill.
relaxing energizing blendThis CD is a superb blend of jazz, classical Portuguese guitar, African syncopation rhythims-by all means lsiten and enjoy! Song #6 "Toy" is my favorite.
Wonderful wonderful musicBau's greatest hits is recommended for anyone interested in instrumental music, whether it be jazz or anything else. The songs aren't jazz, since the song structures are fairly tight. The songs are always interesting, sometimes haunting, sometimes happy, and I usually feel better after listening to them. Bau makes the guitars and violins he plays, but I like the way he sometimes distorts the violin sound.
Colours & Moods
Released in Audio CD by Gallo Records (18 June, 1996)
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Artist: Big Voice Jack Lerole
Tracks:
- Kgaitsedi Rebecca
- Colours and Moods
- Money, Root of All Evil
- Special Dust
- Umdala
- Kwela Hotspot
- Komatsa Bopedi
- Shuffle Up
- Backgomana
- Journey
Average review score:
This Charming ManI heard Big Voice Jack play live in South Africa, and I went to buy the CD the next day. The album is almost as good as Jack is live. All that's missing is the man himself. But his charm comes through his music. It's light, soothing and joyful. I'm just sorry more of his music is not available, I'd buy it all.
Colour me happy!This CD is awesome! After buying it, my husband and I listened to it over and over again throughout a weekend. Big Voice Jack plays the pennywhistle -- sometimes two or three of them at a time! He is a talented, versatile musician. The music on this CD is full of joy and completely danceable. There are many instrumental-only tracks, but one or two voice tracks as well. We woke up with the music playing in our heads. It was wonderful. Treat yourself and buy this one!
Explorer: Africa - Sampler
Released in Audio CD by Nonesuch (24 September, 2002)
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Artist: Various Artists
Tracks:
- Alto Bung'o Horn
- Nhemamusasa (Instrumental Excerpt I)
- Alhamdulillaahi
- Take Me Back To Mabayi
- Kouco Solo
- Aluar Horns
- Song With Tar
- Bus Conductor
- Kumakudo
- Marimba
- Djongo
- Bounkam Solo
- Dzil Duet
- Gonje Songs
- Tipe Tizwe
- Rhinoceros
Average review score:
Captivating: Good for mind and spiritThis is for those searching authentic and untainted African music. It introduces you to several subgenres, to the regional differences, to the topical differences. This can be basic introduction or it can be useful in expanding your knowledge and enjoyment of African music.
As a sampler, you get many different varieties of indigenous African music. You're introduced to that music which has given birth to jazz, to rock, to several subgenres. This includes music from each individual region and covers the spectrum from witchcraft chants to animal sounds.
Chances are you'll find one or more styles that especially enchant you and will guide you in developing a collection tailored to your tastes and purpose.
There's nothing watered down here. This is the true expression of a culture and I highly recommend it.
Classic archival African musicA single-disc sampling of the CD-era reissue of Nonesuch's groundbreaking "Explorer" series, which brought world music to an American audience during the hippie years. Although the original albums were a bit "folkloric" and dry, compared to the wealth of world styles we can hear today, this CD wisely plucks out some of the best sonic oddities from the original, august albums, songs that have such distinctive, alluring aural properties, that they will instantly grab the attention of even the most jaded modern listener. Includes several eerily ambient songs that are similar in feel to Francis Bebey's best work. A nice chance to check out the best this multi-album series has to offer. Be sure to also check out the many volumes of Asian music when they become available!
Jazz Offerings from South Africa
Released in Audio CD by Gallo Records (30 May, 2000)
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Artist: Various Artists
Tracks:
- Thaba Bosiu [Mountain of Darkness] - Sipho Mabuse
- Bra Ntemi's Kwela - African Jazz Pioneers
- Rock
- Song for Johnny Dyani - Sipho Gumede
- Dudu
- Kampala - Jabu Nkosi
- Wait Awhile - Winston's Jive Mix-Up
- Short Piece - Tananas
- Pennywhistle - Mango Groove
- Kgaitsedi Rebecca - Big Voice Jack Lerole
- Last Sixpence - Spokes Mashiyane
- Mazuzu (Young Woman) - West Nkosi
- See You Later - Dan Hill, Lemmy Special
- Man Feeling - Philip Tabane
- Yakhal' Inkomo
- Inguga (Theme from Beckett's Trek) - Henry Zuma
- Inauguration
- Dance No. 1
- Dada - Luis Moreira
- Bumpkins, Funky - Tananas
- Qalaphansi in Afrikaans - Winston's Jive Mix-Up
- Way Back Fifties
- Midnight Ska - Reggie Msomi's Hollywood Jazz Band
- Shoo-Roop! - Mango Groove
- Chobolo - Spokes Mashiyane
- Kwela, Marabi - West Nkosi
- Duba Duba - West Nkosi
- Hoshh Hoha - Jabu Nkosi
- Bump Jive
- Zandile
- Emsengeni
- Skokiaan
Average review score:
'inauguration' by alan"lenny"cameron - track 1, cd2.-healing, soulful sentiments and feelings from the composer and performers of this title, at an historic juncture in South African history. Particularly moving are the near to audible tears of the violinist and saxophonist whose unique solo's express one of the most truthful and reflective tributes to the life and times of Nelson Mandela. So saying it seems to be a warm and emotive musical embrace of South Africa's beautiful people & new leaders, who continue to build a nation whilst transcending everyday adversity after a long uphill struggle for peace and freedom.
Jazz Offerings from South AfricaOn a recent stop at Joburg Intl. Airport I purchased this album. Wanting to listen to it on the long trip back to the US, I went to purchase a CD player. The South African attendant when he heard cuts of the album went into ecstatatic dancing. In the short period I was in this shop five people wanted to know where I purchased it. The scene in the shop was unimaginable. The power of music to bring both black and white together. The uplifting glow has stayed with me since my return home.
Journey of Dreams
Released in Audio CD by Warner Bros / Wea (25 October, 1990)
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Artist: Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Tracks:
- Mercy Of God
- Get Ready
- You Cry For Me
- The Stumbling Block
- Watch
- Dark Or Blue
- No More Passbook
- Destroy Not This Beauty
- Wings To Fly
- Don't Waste Her Time
- Don't Forget
- The Lion Song
- Amazing Grace
Average review score:
Finally!While this album has been out a while, it is a rare find in that it is one of the few Ladysmith albums that is well produced.
Credit this group's biggest fan, Paul Simon, with applying just the right deft touch to the magic voices of this legendary troupe.
Several of the self-produced Ladysmith albums I am in possession of lack the clarity and definition that seem necessary to fully appreciate the strength and passion in this group's voices.
And oh, what voices.
Funny liner note fact: Black Mombaza means "black axe" and was a name applied to Ladysmith by competitors in South African singing contests. Apparently Ladysmith never lost.
A fabulous special bonus awaits those to listen through to the 13th cut, "Amazing Grace," with Paul Simon singing lead.
Too cool.
One of Ladysmith's best albums!This is the most recent addition to my Ladysmith collection, and I couldn't be happier with it! This is a collection of some of their most beautiful music. It is full of great beats and fun sounds to enjoy, as well as a BEAUTIFUL rendition of Amazing Grace with Paul Simon. There are a few songs with English words, and the rest is in Zulu, but it comes with a CD booklet with all of the words so you can follow along. This is a must-have for Ladysmith collectors and for anyone who likes the song "Amazing Grace"! You won't be disappointed!
A L'Olympia
Released in Audio CD by Melodie (Cit570) (18 March, 2003)
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Artist: Césaria Évora
Tracks:
- Guanabarinu
- Papa Joachin Paris
- Cinturao Tem Mele
- Miss Perfumado
- Mar Azul
- Bia D'Lulucha
- Lua Nha Testemunha
- Reanima
- Angola
- Vida Tem Um So Vida
- Cize
- Cumpade Ciznone
- Bia
- Estanhadinha
- Angola
- Sodade
The Cape Verde diva is captured here in a lush live performance that stays true to the smooth cocktail atmosphere of her studio recordings while throwing in a spice of spontaneity with Evora's outbursts of laughter and slight improvisation. Lovers of Evora's romantic, sultry style will not be disappointed by this elegant album. Such reposed hits as "Miss Perfumado" and "Papa Joachin Paris" ring out in the same plaintive, tropical air of their recorded versions, not to mention Evora's voice, which sounds healthy, full, and gorgeous. In short, this is a fine collection recorded at Paris's renowned Olympia auditorium featuring Evora in a fresh, animated light. The only element the recording cannot capture is the now-famous visual of Evora taking a smoke break at a small table with a lamp and drink onstage while her band plays a lively instrumental number. Fans go wild for this odd but unique ritual, and it's one of several reasons to see this charismatic singer for yourself. In the meantime, L'Olympia is the next best thing. --Karen K. Hugg
Average review score:
The Voice of Cabo VerdeMy head still rings from seeing her in Vilnius last night. It was an incredible treat having her come and sing to an audience she held in the palm of her hand. Cesaria has had a long and storied career, with her success coming too late for her to really enjoy. She had to be helped onto the stage, but the Barefoot Diva stood through out the performance, taking a short smoke break, as her young band treated the audience to a lively Salsa piece. She seemed visibly moved by the strong reaction of the audience, which showered her with flowers after a wonderful encore.
At 63, she keeps putting out the albums but this live performance remains the most magical of her albums in my collection. It moves between melancholy mornas and lively samba rhythms, without missing a step. So many favorites on this remarkable CD, but I particularly enjoy Papa Joachin Paris and Sodade. She gives the latter a heartfelt quality that speaks of the long road she has taken to become one of the leading voices in World Music. It is a lovely ballad, apparently derived from her Cabo Verde roots, but made famous in the 70's by Angolan superstar Bonga. Anyway, you will enjoy this CD from beginning to end. Seventy-two minutes of wonderful music that makes you really feel as though you were there at the Olympia.
A staggering, incendiary talent...One can only voice regret at Ms. Evora's relatively late entry into the recording world, as all of her discs have a smoldering intensity and beauty that reveals a seemingly endless cache of ideas. Hence, this creates an insatiability in her fans for ever more recordings. Of all to date, A L'Olympia rewards the most--being the longest. An exemplary performance, and the songs! The shimmering "Reanima," a haunting "Papa Joachim Paris," two great versions of "Angola," and the finale "Sodade," are in need of no further explanation. Like most of her records, this is with traditional orchestration, unlike the odd "modern" production touches Ramiro Mendes added to much of her earlier "Destinho De Belita," presumably to introduce Evora to the French pop market.
We can only hope many more records flow forth from Cape Verde--the thought of a prolific sampling on the order of, say, Coltrane, is dizzying.
The Lion of Soweto
Released in Audio CD by Earthworks [Virgin] (01 December, 1995)
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Artist: Mahlathini
Tracks:
- Baba-Ye
- Bayasazi
- Kudala Besifuna
- Kwa Mfazi Onge Mama
- Bhula Mngoma
- Kumnyama Endlini
- Kumnandi Emgababa
- Amagoduka
- Mahlalela
- Abake Ba Bonana
- Bayasimenmeza
- Ngibuzindlela
- Ilele Insizwa
- Ngiphelekezele
Average review score: 
'Goat Voice' MasterJust to add to the two excellent reviews here, Simon Nkabinde Mahlathini was the pioneer of the growling Howling Wolf/Captain Beefheart style vocals he called his 'goat voice.' His South African groups, Alexandra Black Mambazo, the Mahotella Queens and Makgona Tsohle Band ruled the SA airwaves for three decades, and made a major international impact via the "Indestructible Beat of Soweto" samplers from 1985 on.
This compilation contains some of his most characteristic music from the 1970s, and loses a star only because this selection gets a little repetitive over a whole album.
This compilation contains some of his most characteristic music from the 1970s, and loses a star only because this selection gets a little repetitive over a whole album.
An excellent find.I love this album. The music itself is very catchy, and Mahlathini's singing is amazing. And let's not forget the Mahotella Queens, who do a great job on backing vocals. This album is a good primer to the infectious beat of modern African music.
grrrrrrrowwwwwllllNo review for this record. What a shame. I heard this on kcrw many years ago, tom schnabels morning eclectic show. I loved it right away. What a voice the lion of soweto had. This is a great record to cruise around with. I'm replacing my old vinyl with a new cd.
Homeland: A Collection of Black South African Music
Released in Audio CD by Rounder Select (25 October, 1990)
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Artist: Various Artists
Tracks:
- Ngayishela Yavuma - Dilika
- Ea Nyoloha Khanyapa - MANKALE PHALLANG
- Maraba Start 500 - Boyoyo Boys
- Ntlela a Tingangeni - ELIAS MATHEBULA & THE CHIVANI SISTERS
- Themba - Mzikayifani Buthelezi
- Wamuhle Intombi Emphlophe - GERMAN HADEBE
- Ke Saea Maseru - Majakathatha
- Ngimbonile Ubaba - MAJOZI
- Daveyton Special - Boyoyo Boys
- Sayishayinduku - THE UMZIMKHULU BLACK RIVER
- Khutsana - MANKA LE PHALLANG
- Umuntu - Mzikayifani Buthelezi
- Muti Wa Ngwenda - ELIAS MATHEBULA & THE CHIVANI SISTERS
- Xidudla Xamina - MAKWERHU
- Eswazini - Dilika
- Yashimizi - THE KINGSTAR BROTHERS
- Inyanga - Mzikayifani Buthelezi
- Ntate Bereng - Majakathatha
- Nayintombi Ibaleka - Mzikayifani Buthelezi
- Moea O Foke - MANKA PHALLANG
Average review score: 
stupid!i was very disappointed with this cd, maybe it's my own fault, but i thought i was gonna get some african singing I wanted to hear african vocal groups like ladysmith black or whatever that group is.. i wasted my damn money...and im higly upset.
Boyoyo Boys and More!I first heard "Wamuhle Intombi Emphiophe" and "Ntlela A Tingangeni" as demonstration of rhythm and beat in a music course. Then I chased after this CD! <> is a blending of various aspects in South African music scenes. The compilation features mostly Zulu and Shangaan artists with heavy-beat and lively tracks like "Ngimbonile Ubaba" and "Nayintombi Ibaleka". You'll have to experience all the unique and vivacious music elements yourself. This is a must-have for the international music fanatics!
HomelandAn essential addition to any South African music collection, featuring a wide range of primarily Zulu and Shangaan artists.