Gwigwi Mrwebi – Mbaqanga Songs [Kwela]

7.5 - South Africa - 1967

A 2006 reissue of a 1967 album from the South African saxophonist originally titled Kwela on its first release, and a fine example of what they call Cape Jazz. The record consists of 16 fairly short numbers, all primarily based around a trio of saxophones: two altos (one of which is bandleader Mrwebi) and a tenor. By and large, the saxophones play together in tightly arranged harmonies – there’s not much in the way of soloing. The rhythm section of bass, drums, and piano is pleasant and largely keeps to the background. The tunes for the most part are fairly jaunty numbers that sit somewhere between dixieland and ska. “Mra” and “Kweleentonga” are the standout tracks, but it’s all fairly solid, if a bit samey.