Customer Reviews

Homeland

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This new album is not for Makeba neophytes, but instead for those of us who are long-time fans of this brilliant musician. The difficult rhythms and lyrics and her aging voice led me to wax nostalgic for the Xhosa folk music of earlier cd's and albums. Nevertheless, there is great music here. I was especially moved by the children's choir on two of the songs, and the tender songs of love. The updated version of Patapata was disapointing; not as bouncy and vivacious as the original. If you would like to hear the absolute best that Africa has ever produced, listen to Makeba, but begin with something like Welela.

I bought this CD having read a fantastic review of it in Time magazine. It was a very good decision. Ms. Mekeba is a jem. African music comes full circle by way of Ms. Mekeba's splendid voice. I encourage you to embrace this brilliant and profound collection of songs.

For those who don't know much of African music or Africa - let Queen Miriam be your storyteller.

For a woman who recently sang a duet with her own great-grandchild, it says a lot for her to still be producing quality material such as this

This is a good album and the funky Pata Pata 2000 gives it a contemporary feel, yet never do you feel to the detriment of Makeba's reputation. The album is clearly targetting the non-African markets as a suprising number of songs are in English and some have an R&B feel to them: it is thus not a typical Makeba album. "Pata Pata" and "Welela" are perhaps better buys if you are looking for something more ethnic.

Her vocal cords may not have the range as they did 40 years ago, but her voice has grown stronger and more intense over time. Have a listen to the original Pata Pata or songs from her Skylarks' days and you'll hear the contrast.

Conclusion: It is definitely worth a listen before you know whether or not it's your kind of album.

Lovely cd. Favorite tracks: Lindelani, homeland, pata pata... This cd is beautiful. Makeba's rich mature voice overwhelms and instrument, so it is nice there's at least one song of her w/ only percussion & light background. Some of the songs slightly "lite rocked" world music, but the wonderful vocals almost make that disappear! Believe me, I detest lite rock world music, but it's a great album. If you like more home grown and less synth try her Africa album. MANY wonderful tracks. Also, the case is wonderfully done and the words are printed for all the songs. (just nice to know!)

Finally she gave as a new album - and it was worth it waiting a few years for it. Ms. Makeba chose a new, quite contemporary sound which goes very well with all the songs she chose for the album. Nice lyrics and good production. Very much recommended to everyone who likes music from Africa but also to everyone who is interested in good contemporary pop music.

I disagree with a reviewer "wunland" who think this is not for Makeba - neophiles.This is the first time I am listening Miriam Makeba album and I am moved to tears with her majestic,regal pose,with her gentle but passionate voice and whole positive attitude that this wonderful woman projects.I dont know for many other people who had a dramatical ups and downs in life (well,Tina Turner comes to mind) and STILL have this amazing,loving and caring spirit.Most of us just end up bitter and dissapointed,but after all she went through, Miriam Makeba still sing about "wounded heart that mend again,God always answers one's prayers,no matter how hard we fall".I may be blue-eyed,european male,but I admire this woman and our geographic/cultural difference doesn't matter when it comes to universal music language.

I have never even heard of Makeba and don't own any other South African music. I may not appreciate Makeba's music the way a long time fan would, but I heard this album for the first time today and loved it enough to order it new from Europe at extra cost. Can't wait until it gets here!

Great collection - I picked it up for Pata Pata 2000 and ended up finding the entire disc quite good. I'll be buying more Makeba.

I loved this CD! Esp We Live For Love-her voice is tender and emotive

I have to disagree with the earlier reviewer who didn't like "Pata Pata 2000". That song rocks! It's got a bit of a funk edge to it, but it's big fun to listen to and dance to.

Maybe it's just individual taste, but unlike that earlier reviewer, I found Welela disappointing, especially compared to Eyes On Tomorrow.