Never heard of Vusi Mahlasela? Neither had I until about two weeks ago when I happened across him while watching some videos on http://www.ted.com/, and what a find it was. All it took was one listen to “Thula Mama” from his new album Guiding Star and I was hooked. Vusi has the body of a bouncer but the voice of an angel and his guitar work is amazing. From what I have read on Vusi, he grew up under apartheid in South Africa, and spent his early life fighting it, largely through his music. Though his beginnings were very humble, playing on homemade guitars, he has come a long way and Guiding Star represents his second release on Dave Mathew’s label ATO (Dave also appears on the album), and his sixth overall.
Songs on the album are sung in a mix of English and Zulu (? I believe), and each is a masterpiece. Vusi’s compositions are beautiful, his lyrics are powerful and touching, and his influences are all over the board, from South African, Jazz, and Reggae to Pop. I could try to describe his music all day but I would only do it an injustice, your best bet is just to listen to it for yourself. My three favorite songs right now are ”River Jordan”, “Heaven In My Heart”, and “Thula Mama”. I play this album several times a day, everyday, and don’t see myself ever getting sick of it. Listen for yourself, push your musical boundaries, let me know what you think.
Facts:
His Website: Here
Album On Amazon: Here
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