Dilon

Dilon Djindji
(Riverboat, TUG1026)

Having been a musician and performer all your life and to release your debut album at the age of 75 must be an extraordinary experience. Known as ‘a man of a thousand stories’ and ‘The Grand Old Man of Marrabenta’, Dilon Djindji has done just that. Fresh from the critical acclaim of Mabulu’s albums and the success of the recent tours, Dilon has produced an innovative album that places marrabenta in a previously unexplored acoustic context. Full of feeling and passion, this album demonstrates Dilon’s enthusiasm and unbounded energy for music and life.


'A superb solo debut… on the evidence of this album he deserves to become an international star.' Songlines

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Soul Marrabenta

Mabulu
(Riverboat, TUG1024)

The multi-generational musical collective Mabulu are back with their new album. After the success of their debut album, Karimbo (TUGCD1021), Mabulu have grown as artists to craft a more mature sound on a new album full of pure energy with songs of hardship and fears but also hope and joy. The Grand Old Men of marrabenta (Mozambican rhythm) Lisboa Matavel and Dilon Djindji join forces with young stars including Chiquito of Mozambican hip-hop group Mad Level to create this wonderful album. This album distils the vibrancy and dynamic feel of Mabulu’s live performances and takes it to new heights with consistently breathtaking tracks.


'Sun-baked, hypnotic guitar patterns... an exciting contemporary edge'. The Times

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Yellela

Eyuphuro
(Riverboat, TUG1022)

Zena Bacar, the 'golden voice of Mozambique', is back with the return of Eyuphuro. After years of silence the original band members have reformed with other talented artists. Together with songwriter and singer Issufo Manuel, Bacar has written new songs full of melancholy and powerfull rhythm to create the long-awaited comeback album, Yellela.


‘A searing, gently-upbeat celebration of life.' Songlines

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Karimbo

Mabulu
(Riverboat, TUG1021)

Recorded in Mozambique during the catastrophic floods earlier in 2000, this debut release from Mabulu is a lilting and uplifting testament to hope. From Lisboa Matavel, the Grand Old man of marrabenta who started singing in the 1960s, to 22 year-old Chiquito, representing the new Mozambican rap movement, the band are an inspirational mix of tradition and modernity.


‘A joyous celebration of terrific guitar playing and some attention-grabbing rapping.' MOJO

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The Rough Guide To The Music Of South Africa

Various
(Rough Guide, RGNET1178)

South Africa is one of the great powerhouses of African music with a recording industry that stretches back to the early 20th century. From the lilting violins of the Soweto String Quartet to the African reggae of Lucky Dube, this all-new second edition of The Rough Guide To The Music of South Africa is a perfect introduction to the sounds of the rainbow nation.


'This packed CD demonstrated just how much South African music has dominated the presence of music from Africa.' BBC Radio 3

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The Rough Guide To The Music Of Madagascar

Various
(Rough Guide, RGNET1163)

Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, has incredible ethnic diversity and rich history. The Rough Guide To The Music Of Madagascar features music across the broad Malagasy spectrum – from the island’s spicy dance music to the purest music from the highlands. Featuring the valiha (a tubular bamboo zither) and lokanga (three-stringed fiddle), among other instruments specific to the island, this album explores the diverse Malagasy culture that has been influenced by Arab, Persian, Chinese, Indian and European societies over the years.


**** (four stars) 'An impressive and diverse selection of tracks.' Songlines

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The Rough Guide To South African Gospel

Various
(Rough Guide, RGNET1099)

Today, gospel music remains one of the populist mainstays of everyday life in South Africa’s urban townships and rural communities, and it also constitutes one of the largest genre segments of the local record industry. Its widespread popularity within South Africa has spilled over to the international stage, with groups and artists such as Ladysmith Black Mambazo and Rebecca Malope. The Rough Guide To South African Gospel brings together twenty-two brilliant performances recorded over the last forty years, to cover the entire range of local styles, from apostolic choirs to pop-influenced gospel divas, and features the most famous artists in the field.


'Music in which the collective spirit outweighs star names.’ The Times

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The Rough Guide To Lucky Dube

Various
(Rough Guide, RGNET1079)

The Rough Guide CD series continues its exploration of the works of world music's seminal artists with this collection of the hits of South African reggae star, Lucky Dube. Lucky Dube is the master of African reggae and one of the continent's most popular and successful artists. This compilation brings together his greatest tracks and is essential listening for established fans and newcomers alike.


'A great way to immerse yourself in the music of one of Africa’s most enduring reggae legends.’ Global Rhythm

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