What we're digging right now: Kheswa & Her Martians
Photo courtesy FlipSwitch
Can you imagine not being able to listen to or play the kind of music you love? South Africa experienced such a plight before and during the Apartheid era, when a self-imposed boycott of jazz led to a diaspora of musicians from the segregated country. Now, Broadway star and gifted ensemble singer Nonhlanhla Kheswa is memorializing those trying times with a beautiful new release: Meadowlands, Stolen Jazz (Xippi Phonorecords). Named for Strike Vilakazi's rebellious 1955 composition, this live album glides, glistens and bops like few modern jazz collections do. Kheswa & Her Martians strut from throwback numbers (the breezy "Tshona") to rhythmic powerhouse performances ("Jikele Maweni"). The chanteuse's vocals are striking and heart-pounding as she summons the storytelling prowess she nurtured as a featured singer for The Lion King and as a member of Wyclef Jean's crew. Hers is a voice that can command the sun to rise and the moon to dance. Meadowlands, Stolen Jazz not only serves as an impressive (re)introduction to Kheswa's artistry, but it also is a testament to the rich history of the genre that South Africa has nurtured. Study up and prepare to be moved.
More from Melissa Bobbitt (See All)
Occur Goes Global - The Music of China
Melissa Bobbitt 0How does the world’s most populous nation – with one of the most stringent Internet censorship policies – nurture a music scene? Like most creatives, these artists defy convention (and sometimes laws) to have their...
Apr 3, 2016
The Weird and Wonderful Record Store Day Exclusives
Melissa Bobbitt 0The semiannual Record Store Day is upon us April 18, and there’s a flurry of goodness this go-round. In addition to the “standard” vinyl offerings, you’ll see rare cassettes, tote bags and other nifty gifts...
Apr 13, 2015Comments
Recent posts
Subscribe!
Receive updates on what's going on in live entertainment, events, and music.
