Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Ever since their groundbreaking contributions to Paul Simon's 'Graceland' album (not to mention the stunning use of their "Inkanyezi Nezazi" in a Heinz baked beans commercial) Ladysmith Black Mambazo have been applauded by a world audience for their stunning Zulu choir sound. As globetrotting ambassadors they have taken the traditions of South Africa's isicathamiya and mbube vocal styles, mixed in a good dash of Western pop and come up with haunting music that utterly transcends the language barrier. 'Songs From A Zulu Farm' is the first in what will be a trilogy of albums which transports listeners to the farms outside of Ladysmith where many of the choir grew up. This set of original and traditional songs take in such subjects as a troublesome chicken ("Yangiluma Inkukhu" - "The Biting Chicken"), a praise song to thunder ("Zulu Laduma" - "Voices Like Thunder") and "Thalaza" ("I Miss My Home, I Miss The Farm") which kicks off with a mesmerizing lead vocal from the choir's leader, Joseph Shabalala and evokes the world of the childhood farm complete with animal sounds. If you're a newcomer to the choir's vast recorded output or a long term devotee, this set won't disappoint.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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