Search - Ladysmith Black Mambazo - In Harmony: Live at the Royal Albert Hall on DVD

So much fun

Bruce P. Barten | 02/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I used to be in a choir. Whenever the director wanted us to do more than just sing the notes, she would mention Ladysmith Black Mambazo, like these guys knew how to do what she wanted, and anyone who bought a CD at the time could hear the luscious sound of a large group simultaneously thinking the same thing on an emotional level that would strike home in people's souls. After Paul Simon used them on his "Graceland" album, it wasn't hard to hear what they sounded like. Most people might have a language problem on "Phansi Emigodini (Deep down in the mines)." Not being able to identify the meaning of words in an African language can be an obstacle to paying attention, but they sign what they are doing with their hands and feet. The DVD jacket calls it "tiptoe dancing," but it is so much more. The whole group is adept at waving their hands and feet around in the air, and the more you watch them, the more fun they let themselves have. Americans have gotten used to a lot of individual star performers, but these guys cavort like letting their souls loose is the most contagious behavior on the planet. Our kids must be learning stuff like this in school. It is hard to understand them, but do they care?"

Next best thing if you can't see them live

Jonathan S. Montano | southern california | 10/03/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Saw Ladysmith Black Mambazo some years ago live and enjoyed their talents. Its nice to hear/see them and to get some extra info thats on the DVD as well."