Somewhat more sober but no less hypnotic, warm, and churchlike than other Ladysmith albums, this change of pace (released in 1988 but recorded just prior to their Paul Simon collaboration Graceland) consists entirely of devout Christian songs sung in Zulu (translations provided). Extended melodic lines reminiscent of Christian hymns alternate with pulsating refrains that gently echo jubilee gospel choirs--and every song ends with a blissful amen or hallelujah. Umthombo's choral harmonies, less contrapuntal than Ladysmith's usual euphonic textures, showcase the subtle rhythmic complexities--the turn-on-a-dime transitions and nearly unnoticed tension--of Joseph Shambala's divine arrangements. --Richard Gehr
Umthombo Wamanzi,Ladysmith Black Mambazo,Shanachie,Africa,African,African Folk,Afro-Pop,Int'l & World Music,Mbube,Pop,South Africa,World Music,Worldbeat
Average customer rating: |
Umthombo Wamanzi
Ladysmith Black Mambazo Manufacturer: Shanachie ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B000000DWI Release Date: 1990-10-25 |
Tracks:
- Uzube Nami Baba
- Ungikhumbule
- Emafini
- Yimani
- Igazi Lemihlatshelo
- Uthando
- Silgugu Isiphambano
- Baba Wethu
- Siyawadinga Amandla
- I'nhliziyo Zethu
- Halleluya
- Abantu Bayahluleka
Amazon.com essential recording
Somewhat more sober but no less hypnotic, warm, and churchlike than other Ladysmith albums, this change of pace (released in 1988 but recorded just prior to their Paul Simon collaboration Graceland) consists entirely of devout Christian songs sung in Zulu (translations provided). Extended melodic lines reminiscent of Christian hymns alternate with pulsating refrains that gently echo jubilee gospel choirs--and every song ends with a blissful amen or hallelujah. Umthombo's choral harmonies, less contrapuntal than Ladysmith's usual euphonic textures, showcase the subtle rhythmic complexities--the turn-on-a-dime transitions and nearly unnoticed tension--of Joseph Shambala's divine arrangements. --Richard GehrRock Music:
- Underground System
- Wenn Ich Einmal Reich War [Import]
- 25 Anos De Samba Reggae: Ao Vivo [Import]
- 30 Grandes Sucessos [Import]
- 900 [Import]
- Alamtini [Import]
- Alegria: The Film Soundtrack [Soundtrack]
- Amore Dopo Amore [Import]
- Ao Vivo: Na Palma Da Mão [Live] [Import]
- Assim Que Se Faz [Import]
Recommended Music:
To the Masterlock: Live in Japan 2004 [Import]
International Tchaikovsky Competition, Vol. 3: The Great Vocalists
Liberty Tree: American Music 1776-1861
Music Review: Additive, Vol. 4 [Import]
Le Meilleur de Françoise Hardy [Import]