LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO > Ladysmith Black Mambazo Live!

Ladysmith Black Mambazo, touted as the cultural ambassadors of South America by Nelson Mandela, needn’t much embellishment and rather than attempt to make documentary art, Live! relies on the group’s 45 years of renown. Inexpensive to make means inexpensive to buy and while this disc will unlikely spike on the cinematic spectrum it exposes LBM’s authentic and dynamic visual aesthetic, live from Akron, Ohio.

Label: HEADS UP INTERNATIONAL
[Rating: 3 STARS]

Ladysmith Black Mambazo, touted as the cultural ambassadors of South America by Nelson Mandela, needn’t much embellishment and rather than attempt to make documentary art, Live! relies on the group’s 45 years of renown. Inexpensive to make means inexpensive to buy and while this disc will unlikely spike on the cinematic spectrum it exposes LBM’s authentic and dynamic visual aesthetic, live from Akron, Ohio. Uniformed in traditional tunics in front of a Zulu tapestry, the group engages in light choreography and slapstick buffoonery which sometimes produces mild laughter from the audience. LBM sing infectiously, allowing for the viewer’s private accompaniments to their harmonious a cappella. However the disc’s middle contains a lesson in audience participation that puts the couch-viewing demographic in an awkward, foolish position. Although attempts at humor resonate mildly, a brilliant effect is revealed by their white shoes, 18 of which patter silently and buoyantly throughout the performance, a peaceful visual that is definitely lost on the ear.