South African ensemble Amampondo are a revelation. Their energy is infectious, these incredible percussion jams, where hand drums, marimba and various percussion instruments are melded with cries, whoops, choir’, saxophone, flute, even distinctly regional instruments such as antelope horns – which may explain some of the more peculiar sounds careering around this compilation of their sounds over the last three decades. Whilst they’re recorded with the likes of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Juno Reactor, this collection features legendary Brazilian percussionist Airto Moriera (Weather Report/ Miles Davis). It’s not all 4 to the floor here however, the ensemble who are now an 8 piece music/dance troupe, really excel in crafting these diverse arrangements, the vocal arrangements in particular simply sublime, using call and response, even giving a particularly low growl on Cumbelele (Children’ Game) a repetitive percussive role. The saxophone also adds a relaxed jazzy vibe. however when they get the those big heavy jungle bass drums throbbing like on Inkosi Yamampondo, it’s a huge party, you can picture the bonfire, and hordes of people dancing and crowding around the mic offering ecstatic shrills whilst the choir offers the melodies. South Africa is known primarily for its incredible vocal choirs however Amampondo have taken on this influence yet integrated it with some incredible African percussion, traditional tribal instruments as well as jazz staples and created this incredible music that is all of the above and none at the same time.
Bob Baker Fish
