Ukubonga Gratitude
Justin Time, 2022
8/10
The South African vocalist Lorraine Klaasen and South African guitarist, composer, arranger, musical director and producer Mongezi Ntaka come together for this album that collects pieces from the Southern Africa’s Township music songbook and features works penned by some of Southern Africa’s most celebrated singers and composers.
“Sekusile (Kikirikiki)” starts the listen with the sounds of a rooster, before Tlale Makhene’s lively percussion complements the warm vocal harmonies, and “Fiela” follows with Ntaka’s cozy acoustic guitar and David ‘Qadasi’ Jenkins’ graceful concertina helping make for a very expressive album highlight.
Residing in the middle, “Insizwa” emits much melody in its rich and cultured spirit, while “Meet Me At The River” welcomes Steve Dyer’s dreamy flute to the poetic, call and response singing that’s full of folk influences.
“Unamanga” arrives near the end and showcases both Klaasen and Ntaka’s very adaptive pipes, and “Can’t Cross Over” exits with acoustic guitar the duo’s charming presence in a very youthful finish.
An aptly titled affair that certainly does show gratitude to the composers, most of who are no longer living, Klaasen and Ntaka illuminate the African romantic courtships, wedding songs, social and political commentary, consciousness and cultural pride with so much care and precision.
Travels well with: Shujaat Husain Khan/Katayoun Goudarzi- This Pale; Sarah Aroeste- Monastir