CD Review: Tendai "Baba" Maraire's 'Wona Baba Maraire'

Tendai "Baba" Maraire
Wona Baba Maraire
Hearth Music

As the son of Dumisani Maraire, it is only natural Tendai "Baba" Maraire would follow in his father's footsteps. In this case, Tendai takes up the shona torch and presents the world with a fiery set of shona songs inspired by Tendai's homeland of Zimbabwe. The shona music contains lively vocals, the unmistakable mbira (thumb piano), and several familiar drums: conga, djembe, and djundjun. Karim Koumbassa provides additional drumming from Guinea. Overall, Tendai adds lush melodies and traditional riffs that catapult the soul into a place of supreme beauty. The imagination runs wild and the rhythms follow closely behind. Nearly fifty-minutes of music makes the album a pleasure to listen to. If you are a fan of South African music, Zimbabwe sounds, and shona music, then pick this one up today. You ears will thank you for it. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Marvellous Sounds of Mbira

Solomon Murungu
Spirit of Zambuko: Liturgy & Reflections of Mbira
Independent Release

The mbira, otherwise known as the thumb piano, is the chief instrument in traditional Zimbabwean music. Solomon Murungu brings us the music of the mbira without additional instrumentation or vocal accompaniment. Consequently, the listener becomes encapsulated and entranced in the sparkling, metallic tones of the mbira's keys. With every listen, the tracks provide cyclic rhythm patterns that showcase the Shona spirit. In essence, Solomon's playing technique is traditional and improvisational, but it clearly reflects the spiritual connection between symbolism and realism. 6 long tracks feature the mbira instrument. In addition, an extensive booklet details the stories surrounding each track. A pleasant and high-quality recording for everyone! ~ Matthew Forss