The overload of great record releases and therefore the inevitability to postpone the purchase of certain items can be rewarding sometimes. For months, the 3 volumes of NEXT STOP… SOWETO were high on my shopping list but quite recently, Strut Records has issued a Limited Edition Box Set that includes all 3 volumes at a budget price. The box features the original 3 volumes in slipcases and is an amazing anthology of South African music made during the 1960s and ‘70s. Each volume is focused on a different style: volume 1 is dedicated to the golden age of mbaqanga (township jive – think Mahlathini), the second volume features some wonderful R&B, funk & psych, while the third volume is a 2CD dedicated to South African jazz. If you don’t have any of the 3 volumes, this box is highly recommended as it’s probably the best South African music box set you are likely to find!
To celebrate the third and final volume of THEME TIME RADIO HOUR, Ace Records has created a nice little box to store all three volumes in. It’s a great looking sturdy box in a limited edition of 2500. For those who don’t know yet, the Theme Time Radio Hour 2CDs feature amazing tracks taken from Bob Dylan’s radio show and are a true relief. Check the excellent Ace Records website for a complete track listing and you’ll be immediately convinced of the fact that you’re in for a real treat!
BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO AFRICAN FUNK is a real steal at €6,99! This 3CD was compiled by Nigel Williamson and features amazing tracks by wonderful bands like Bembeya Jazz National, Orchestra Baobab, Super Mama Djombo and Sir Victor Uwaifo & the Melody Maestros to name a few. This 3CD would be nice as a sampler but it also stands on its own because it features some rather hard to find tracks like the sparkling "Bimoko Magni" by Super Djata De Bamako. Deal of the year? You bet!
