Global in Sound, Musicians, and Message
Take everything you love about South African rhythms and choirs; mix in some Cuban magic; add a dose of Philly jazz; tackle issues of love, loss, and adversity; and you get the latest album from global activists Sharon Katz & The Peace Train.
The gorgeously layered tracks were recorded in South
Africa, Mexico and the USA, including an appearance by South African choir,
Thee Legacy, produced by Sibongiseni Shabalala of Ladysmith Black Mambazo fame.
You’ll do a double take when you hear the vocals and think LBM’s lead singer, the
late Joseph Shabalala, has come back to add his voice to “What Can We Do/ Sizokwenzenjani.” Sharon and
Joseph started working together in South Africa in 1992 - and Ladysmith Black
Mambazo traveled aboard Sharon’s original journey of The Peace Train in 1993
when Sibongiseni was still a youth - so it truly is a legacy track.
Those familiar with previous albums may need a tissue
when listening to “Sister of the Soul/Siswami,” a tribute to Nonhlanhla Wanda who co-founded
The Peace Train with Sharon is 1992 and tragically passed away this year. The
Zulu choir, Afrika Mamas, adds its haunting harmonies to summon the ancestors
and honor this beloved Sister.
“Think It Over” sounds like a pop dance track, and the
intention is to make it popular to support marginalized groups anywhere in the
world. This has been The Peace Train’s mission since its apartheid-busting
origins and continues with its projects around the globe. Sparked by a
situation involving the Trans community, it also addresses diversity, equity,
and inclusion issues worldwide. Drawing on Sharon’s music therapy work with
girls rescued from trafficking, “La Tristeza” champions the resiliency of those
subjected to such atrocities.
On a lighter note, the bouncy rhythms of “Baja
California” will make you feel like you’re swaying in sync with the Pacific
Ocean and falling in love while traveling down the Baja peninsula of Mexico.
Then the traditional medley of “Hamba Joba/ Moea Thulamele Hae” will have you
on your feet dancing in true South African style.
Aptly titled For You, Sharon honors her faithful
fan base in her message on this album: the
extraordinary people I’ve met along my journey; the issues and challenges that
have confronted us; and most importantly, the love and support we’ve shared.
Upcoming Release Parties include Joe’s at The Public
Theater in NYC on September 5th; City Winery in Philadelphia on
September 10th; South African Wine & Music Festival at Grayhaven
Winery in Virginia on September 16th & 17th; The Bush
Farmhouse in Black Mountain, NC on September 18th; Meredith College in Raleigh, NC on September
30th; and San Diego Folk Heritage on October 21st. For more information and tickets: SharonKatz.com
Available from Tando Rhythms Records and all your favorite
streaming platforms.
