Customer Reviews

Hugh Masekela & Union of South Africa

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It's quite a surprise that no one has gleaned from this albumany snippets or entire songs for cover material. As today's artistsdesperately seek new material by looking backwards for sounds -called "sampling" by the artists who do it; "strip-mining" by musicians who wish for a more original element to modern music- "Hugh Masekela and the Union of South Africa" stands as a testament to the benefits of obscurity.

It's an album whose ethnic purity is outshined only by its pure emotional power. By the early seventies, Masekela had already scored a hit with "Grazing in the Grass" and was turning his attention to his geographic roots, the South African horn jive dubbed "township bop." This album is simply unsurpassed in its musicianship, and is also a remarkable anti-apartheid statement, coming a full decade or so before it was brought to mainstream America's attention.

Of special note here is the soulful "To Get ! Ourselves Together", along with beautiful poly-rhythms in "Ade" and "Johannesburg Hi-Lite Jive." Pop-funk influences are evident in wah-wah guitar sounds, prevalent on most of the faster numbers, and Masekela's notoriously crisp solos shine.

Masekela fans absolutely must have this album; it's tight, inside jazz. Don't expect anything other than quick, major chord progressions and little self-indulgence. "Outside" purists might want to stay away, but only if they want to leave a brilliant album in quiet, unadulterated obscurity.

A tragedy has occurred. "Hugh Masekela & the Union of South Africa" is out-of-print. It is nauseating for serious music listeners to contemplate that while "Destiny's Child" is making millions of dollars on record sales, this gem has descended below obscurity to become out-of-print. The ultimate dishonor has not tarnished this album's phenomenal music. This classic recording has a beautiful balance of African esthetics meet American soul, jazz, funk, rock and pop. The songs have a vintage sound that could only have been made by a South African playing American music in 1971. Along these lines, the album cover is the perfect visual representation of the music. While having a 1970's sound, "Hugh Masekela & the Union of South Africa" is by no means outdated, nor will it ever. The disc has an enjoyable mix of slow ballads, township infused instrumentals and fast funk. The song writing is superb, the musical improvisation is good and the voices soar. The only drawback is that coming in under forty minutes, it's short. While short on length, it will provide many long years of listening pleasure. Get "Hugh Masekela & the Union of South Africa" if you can!

Hugh Masekela has a strong tone.i have always dug his style.this disc reflects his genius.he has quality and texture in his work.

The best that Hugh Masekela has to offer. This music is timeless. Traditional African music with the Masekela flair. I wish it would go on forever.