Zulu Heartbeat

BBC composer/keyboardist Simon Zagorski-Thomas heads up the all-star storytelling collective on this South African project, which features vocalists who have performed with Miriam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Aswad and the Mahotella Queens, among others. The tracks are described in promotional material as "upbeat" and "ambient," but content overrides style. Mamelang doesn't shy away from tough topics-the AIDS epidemic in South Africa, the loss of cultural heritage, old battles, survivors of torture and the hope of building a rainbow nation. Lighter songs discuss the beauty of the land, simple yet lasting traditions and good old hospitality.

Label: Unknown
Studio: New World
Released: 2000-06-19
Format: Audio CD