4.0 out of 5 stars
"Harmony, Love and Peace", November 5, 2004
This 2000 Wrasse Records compilation collects highlights from Ladysmith Black Mambazo's recorded output from the dozen years following the release of Paul Simon's GRACELAND, which thrust the black vocal group into the international spotlight. The 19 tracks on this U.K. compilation were selected by founder, writer and lead singer Joseph Shabala.
While none of the tracks from that influential album are included here, "Amazing Grace/Nearer My God to Thee" is a Paul Simon/Joseph Shabala arrangement (though it is NOT the version found on JOURNEY OF DREAMS which features Paul Simon). It is also the only track sung in English. But even when you don't understand the lyrics, the spiruality of the music shines through.
The most recognizable song on this collection to U.K. fans is "Inkanyezi Nezazi" (from STAR AND THE WISEMAN), which was used in a Heinz baked beans ad. But the entire album is a sheer joy. As the liner notes state: "Their a cappella singing transports you to a world of harmony, love and peace." To that, all I can add is "amen." [Total running time - 77:04] HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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