Various Artists - Mzansi Music (Young Urban South Africa)

(Trikont/ US-0316)

This 15-track compilation is from the team behind the excellent ‘Globalista’ and ‘Africa Raps’ compilations, i.e. compiler Jay Rutledge and the Trikont label. The compilation is an urban music showcase for all things ‘Mzansi’ (slang for South Africa), i.e. Kwaito (Mandoza, Zola etc.), hip-hop (Godessa, Skwatta Kamp and H20) and more.

Johannesburg-based journalist Maria McCloy from the brilliant South African youth web site Rage wrote the informative sleevenotes and contributed to the concept.

Formed exactly 10 years ago, Skwatta Kamp is one of the most respected and successful South African hip-hop groups. Both streetwise and with a social conscience they built their career independently but recently signed to South African giant the Gallo Record Company. Featured on the ‘Mzansi Music’ compilation is their track ‘Umoja’ (feat. Relo) which is the first single of their latest album ‘Mkhukhu Funkshen’. Absolutely top class.

Reviewer : JJC