Zam Groove: Music from Zambia

A short LP release of seven tracks taken from the excellent SWP box sets Luangwa to Livingstone (see previous) and Music from Barotseland. Crispin Mutanuka from the Leya tribe plays silimba (xylophone), an instrument originating in the Western Province of Zambia. There is an earthy tone to this instrument and the repeated melody lines and percussive thud in both tracks are captivating. The Lipa Band is a vocal duo who accompany themselves on guitar and metal percussion. The second voice is an interesting falsetto.

Two lively tracks from the Libala Band feature some good acoustic guitar playing accompanied by bottle, drum and fi ve-part vocal harmony. Two tracks by kalimba (thumb piano) player Mufrika Edward are the highlight. His 13-note thumb piano is accompanied by acoustic guitar. ‘Titwe’ is about the pounding of maize to make nshima (cornmeal porridge); and the beautiful ‘Galimoto’ celebrates ownership of a car. All seven tracks have percussion accompaniment by Michael Baird, who is responsible for recording most of the music released on the SWP label.