Various Artists

South Africa is in fact the only country in the whole African continent that has developed a strong jazz tradition. Initially influenced by the great American stylists, (Ellington, Gillespie...) South Africa gradually developed its own soulful style based on a distinctive taste for melody and a deep sense of groove.

Masterfully selected from the so-called "Golden Age" of the genre, (late '50s/ early '60s), this compilation represents the best introduction to the work of a large and varied body of musicians and composers who inevitably developed their music as part of the historical Anti-Apartheid struggle, and as means of self-expression in the dark times of exile.

Kippie Moeketsi, Hugh Masekela (in The Jazz Epistles), Dollar Brand, Chris McGregor, Dudu Pukwana (in Chris McGregor & The Castle Lager Big Band), Mongesi Feza (in Chris McGregor & The Castle Lager Big Band), Barney Rabachan, Nick Moyake (in Chris McGregor & The Castle Lager Big Band), and of course the queen Miriam Makeba are just some of the main voices represented here. A bunch of true warriors. Also features John Mehegan, Dollar Brand Trio, and Gideon Nxumalo.

ARTISTS & SELECTIONS:

• SIDE A
• A1. John Mehegan - "Mabomvana"
• A2. The Jazz Epistles - "Uku-Jonga Phambili"
• A3. Dollar Brand Trio - "Eclipse At Dawn"
• A4. Miriam Makeba - "Ngola Kurila"

• SIDE B
• B1. Chris McGregor & The Castle Lager Big Band - "Switch"
• B2. Gideon Nxumalo - "Chopi Chopsticks"
• B3. Miriam Makeba - "Love Tastes Like Strawberries"
• B4. Dollar Brand - "Gafsa"