Spirits Rejoice

A soulful set of fusion from the South African scene of the 70s – a record that's a lot more electric overall than some of the others we know from the time – served up by a youthful group that's brimming over with power! The core of the set is awash in electric bass, guitar, and keyboard lines – the latter played by Mervyn Africa with a great mix of rhythmic currents and more spacious modes – and the set features some especially nice tenor and soprano sax lines from Duke Makasi, who soars next to two other trumpets in the frontline, in a way that makes the whole record sparkle with a lot of joy! The rhythms change up in all these wonderful ways – and the record almost has a James Mason vibe at times, especially on the cuts that bring in vocals by Felicia Marian or Russell Herman. And like James Mason, there's a wonderful blend here of electric jazz and soul – all infused with a very positive spirit.

PERSONNEL:

• Mervyn Africa - piano, organ, vibes
• Russell Herman - electric guitar
• Sipho Gumede - electric bass, percussion
• Gilbert Mathews - drums, percussion
• Duke Makasi - tenor & soprano sax
• George Tyefumani - trumpet
• Temba Mehlomakulu - trombone, trumpet
• Felicia Marian - vocals
• Russell Herman - vocals

TRACKS:

• SIDE A
• A1. Joy
• A2. Standing Here
• A3. Savage Dance & African Spaces

• SIDE B
• B1. Mulberry Funk
• B2. Minute Song
• B3. Sugar Pie
• B4. Makes Me Wonder Why
• B5. Electric Chicken