Search - Hugh Masekela :: Mandela: Son Of Africa, Father Of A Nation - Original Soundtrack

Definitely not your typical movie soundtrack!

01/31/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album is more than a mere compendium -- it is a narrative of how music is organically linked to culture. The tracks not only offer glimpses of the development of South African music from the 1950s through the end of Apartheid, but also indicate the social significance of music in a divided society. "Sip 'n Fly" "Yiyole" "Pula Kgosa Seretse" "Lelani" and "Vuka Vuka" show the vitality of jazz in S Africa's black community, while offering somewhat revolutionary messages. Later tracks are increasingly politicized, especially "Heavyweight" "Phansi Ngodlame" and "Asimbonanga," which was recorded by a band composed (against state regulations) of black and white musicians. The music is good; the window into the world of Apartheid and revolution is fascinating. The only caveat: this album is unified only by the fact that all the music was created in Mandela's lifetime in South Africa. The difference in style, tempo, and attitude between songs can be jarring. Still, a great introduction to S. African music and history!"