Reviewed by Tony Cummings

This 17 track compilation is a reasonable overview of the wide variety of music forms in Africa. The majority of the tracks emanate from the Zulu church with the S.D. Church Choir, the Amahlokohloko, the Newcastle Five Roses and the Zyac Choir all making music which is rich, vibrant and using harmonies which sometimes sound strange to western ears but always convey exuberant praise. My favourite tracks are "Masimbongeni" which roughly translated means "Let's Praise Him" and is a biblical educational song exhorting young people to work for the Lord, and "Baratang Ho Phela" which apparently tells us that if you want a good life you need to come to Jesus. If you want to move on in your exploration of African music beyond Ladysmith Black Mambazo this is a good place to start.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.