Search - Ladysmith Black Mambazo :: Llembe: Honoring Shaka Zulu

You don't have to understand all the words to know their bea

R. Kyle | USA | 03/21/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Few groups reach 48 years under the leadership of one man. When Joseph Shambala began the all-male choir in 1960, his mission was to build a group that would win competitions. The name Ladysmith Black Mambazo is an affirmation of this goal. 'Black' refers to the black ox, which is the strongest animal and 'Mambazo' is the Zulu word for 'axe.' Their aim was literally to chop down their competition.



This group has had to be strong. In 1986, when they began working with Paul Simon, they violated their country's doctrine of apartheid putting them at grave risk. Two of the members have been murdered due to racial tension, including Shambala's brother. The members work hard in their concert appearances to stress the importance of tolerance and racial harmony in the context of Christian values. They are not just musicians of the highest caliber, they are ambassadors of peace.



Today, Joseph Shambala still writes most of their songs. Nine songs of this collection are in Zulu with three in a mix of English and Zulu. These are songs of praise and faith. The sound is exhilaratingly ambient. Their music is an excellent test of any music system.



Their performances are a real treat. The traditionally dressed group regales you with tales of their homeland as well as their music. They are not just standing still while they're singing in that tight harmony, either. Zulu dances are strenuous and beautiful. If you ever have a chance to hear this group live, it's well worth the price of admission.

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