At Last Mo Lapeng
Ansonica, 2023
8/10
The collective of Matt Dacso, Andrew Chinganga, Zakes Gwaze, Lekofi Sejeso, and Arthur “Makhwenkwe” Mengwe, as Trans-Kalahari Quintet they guide many other players for the funky, afro-jazz listen.
“Ka-Ching” starts the listen with Andrew Chinganga’s lively alto saxophone and Dingalo Mpolaise’s frisky percussion adding much to the soulful and bright climate, and “Chipos” follows with Lamech Nwako and Andrew Lienhard’s stylish keyboards adding much to the jazz meets pop ideas.
Deeper into the listen, “Leko-Kwasa” spotlights Shabani Mwanasande’s kwasa guitar amid the rich textures of warmth, while “Tobetsa Tobetsa” benefits much from John Selolwane’s meticulous lead guitar for the rhythmic landscape.
Closer to the end, “Nyakurukwa” has the quintet interacting with no lack of melody thanks to Mengwe’s animated drumming, and “Hands Off” exits with Dacso’s charming sax prowess and Nyakurukwa’s intricate bass for the album’s best selection.
A listen that’s never short on guitar solos or dance floor ready moments, the Trans-Kalahari Quintet know their way around a groove you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Hevreh Ensemble- A Path Of Light; Abrazo: The Havana Sessions