Shiyani Ngcobo - Introducing Shiyani Ngcobo

(World Music Network/ LC11067)

Maskanda is a music born out of the Zulu experience of labour migrancy at the turn of the 20th century.  As a musical form, it's recognised by the instrumental flourish that sets the tone at the beginning of each song, by the 'picking style' of guitar playing, and by the rapidly spoken sections of Zulu praise poetry (izibongo).

Shiyani has been working in a duet or trio for ages, but also plays solo, both on guitar and on igogogo - a folk guitar made from a 5-litre oil can, wood, wire, nails; as well as a plethora of traditional and not so traditional instruments and vocal styles from foot rattle to concertina.

Reviewer : Yve Ngoo

Senzeni (clip)