Live at the Market Theatre

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All Reviews >>

Hugh Masekela Live at the Market Theatre Times Square Records, 2007

Hugh Masekela celebrates 30 years of Johannesburg’s Market Theatre with a far-reaching, retrospective concert.

Hugh Masekela truly deserves all the recognition he’s received as one of Africa’s premier musicians. Even at the age of 68, he still puts on an energetic live show, as is evident in his latest release, Live at the Market Theater. This two-disc release features some choice tracks, such as “Lady”, a Fela Kuti cover and “Grazin in the Grass”, the song that reached number one status in America.

The songs work their way through different styles from jazz to funky jams. The opening track “Ibala Lam” is soothing and clearly jazz inspired. Masekela played in numerous jazz ensembles when he came to the United States in 1960. Aside from his masterful trumpet, cornet, and flugelhorn playing, Masekela’s voice is powerful. He urges the crowd to open up and let loose. The energy of the show definitely rises as the show progresses. The track entitled “Ha Le Se” has an intangible South African feel to it as it evokes melodies similar to those of Miriam Makeba.

A common occurrence on this album is Masekela’s use of his voice to produce sound effects, often high pitched. The introduction to “Stimela” is an example of this, as he mimics a train. The band joins in and together they create a pretty realistic audio image of a moving steam engine.

The band really displays its talents and cohesiveness during “Lady” and an expansive remake of Masekela’s 1968 international hit, “Grazin in the Grass”. Both tracks are up tempo and seem to be crowd favorites. The album is a testament to Hugh Masekela’s place among other African music icons. The overall listening experience is enjoyable, even if it doesn’t equal work from the prime of his career, or the experience of seeing him live.

Contributed by Hansdale Hsu
for www.afropop.org