Zimbabwe: Shona Mbira Music

From 1977. According to the notes, the mbira dzavadzimu has 22-24 keys on a hardwood soundboard (read the notes to find out more). This typically fascinating Nonsuch Explorer release captures some beautiful and intricate playing.

*1. Sweet and lyrical. A gentle, mid-tempo instrumental.
2. Rather like #1 & by the same performers. Too short though.
3. Buzzing mbira, emotional vocals. Mid-tempo. Very cool.
*4. Soaring vox, mbiras in harmony, fluid & lively.
*5. Mbira & fast percussion w/whistling & vocals.
6. Fast w/claps, crowd noises, vocals, great live energy.
7. A simple melody that undergoes fluid changes. Midtempo.
8. Mbira & wailing vocals. Relaxed but with power.
9. Starts slow & picks up. Melodic with good vocals.
10. Vocals, mbiras in a warm, midtempo track.
9/2004