Introducing Shiyani Ngcobo

Artist: Shiyani Ngcobo
Label: World Music Network
Category: Music

Average customer rating:

Media: Audio CD
Number Of Discs: 1

UPC: 605633510126
EAN: 0605633510126
ASIN: B000285IL6

Release Date: 2004-08-26

Related Categories:

General

| Africa | International | Styles | Music

General

| International | Styles | Music

General

| Pop | Styles | Music

Tracks:

Yekanini
Izangoma
Udadewetha
Senzeni
Sevelina
Ijadu
Izinyembezi
Wayi Thathaphi
Hgeke Lithuthuke
Ngisizeni
Isithembu
Akwehlanga Lungehlanga
Isithothobala
Kheto Eyakho

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Customer Reviews:

Variable but some gems to find.......2004-09-22

Masakanda is music that developed by Zulu migrant labourers at the turn of the twentieth century. It is based on traditional styles and characterised by an elaborate guitar picking style that accompanies rapidly-spoken Zulu praise poetry. The songs often reminisce on the comfort of the rural existence left behind. The styles of masakanda vary according to dance patterns associated with particular regions. Shiyani Ngcobo's music blends a number of these styles, a result of playing it for more than thirty years.

What may have been a solo session ended up as a kind of garage band session where Shiyani is accompanied by violin, bass, concertina, various percussion instruments and female backing vocals which bring a harmonious warmth. The pitch of the guitar is often raised to a high degree and the tunings of the other instruments adjusted accordingly. No matter what complexities are happening in the music, the incessant thumb-beat keeps the pace. Despite its characteristic rough edge, the music is very skilfully performed. Guitarists will be particularly enthralled by this guy's extraordinary style - the one solo reminds me of John Fahey, while one or two other tracks are even reminiscent of John Renbourn's style. Fascinating!

Yet this is specialised, raw roots music from the heart of Africa! I did have to listen a couple of times to adjust my ears and really appreciate the essence of the music. While some tracks seemed to drone on, the beauty of the music is deceptive so I did end up finding some real gems here.

Best "World" Recording this year.......2004-09-05

Gil Evans once said if you were ever depressed, listen to "Springville" by Miles Davis and you would be instantly cured. The same goes for this tremendous record - a bright and lively recording of amazing vocals, guitar, and bird chirps. A great listen right out of the package but also rewards repeated listenings. 5 Stars!

A big star of the Maskanda style of Zulu dance music for dec.......2004-08-29

INTRODUCING SHIYANI NGCOBO is introducing to the Western world perhaps; but not to South Africa, where he's been a big star of the Maskanda style of Zulu dance music for decades.
He's very rhythmic in the groove, but never loud, using hand claps, violin and incredible innovative acoustic guitar techniques.
ýToe tapping, danceable fun makes INTRODUCING SHIYANI NGCOBO a highly recommended pick.

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