Mzansi
Reviewed By Janet Mawdesley September 20, 2013
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You know you are on to a good thing when the first track starts off with sensual male African voices chanting then a flute kicks in playing the Hornpipe – Irish none- the- less. The foot starts tapping the hand starts moving and bingo, you are in to the melody and the sound – captured by the rhythm.
Take care when listening to Mzansi as you will find it brings a lightening of the soul, a lifting of the spirit and a smile to the face. Enjoy every note – I did, I have and I am.
Such is Kellermans’ latest release which can be truly classed as world fusion as he not only has taken and recreated some traditional African and world classics he has done it not with a cast of thousands, but a cast of many from a variety of nations.
Malaika features the rich voice of Eunice Harris intertwined with Kellerman on flute as they create their version of a very old Miriam Makeba classic. The words are in Swahili which is the first of several other African languages found throughout the album.
A touch of reggae comes in with MamaTembu and things just get going for there on. This is definitely one track which remains with you as find yourself walking along humming the catchy little tune. Did I mention the hip swinging that tends to go with this- try and resist if you can!
Melancholy comes into a reflective piece with Cape Flats bringing with it a change of tempo and also allowing you to appreciate the quality of the music being created. Mellow and subtle, you can close your eyes and find yourself joining them on the Cape, or the plains or wherever you choose to be. A powerful, almost introspective piece deepened with the subtle addition of vocals adding that essence of Africa that underlies each of the tracks.
I could go on and on about this album as you will gather as it is one that is totally out there; each piece shows the mastery of the musicians involved with Kellerman as they deliver an album that is unique and will appeal to a wide audience. Even rap gets a look in as does a little jazz and a lot more.
Take care when listening to this one as you will find it brings a lightening of the soul,a lifting of the spirit and a smile to the face. Enjoy every note – I did, I have and I am.