On the cover of her 1995 debut album, 'Babhemu', Busi Mhlongo is dressed in traditional Zulu garb. But for this, her latest offering, Busi has gone for a contemporary, slick look and her Grace Jones-type appearance adds credence to the title and intentions of this extraordinary album. Long regarded as one of the stellar female vocalists on the African continent, alongside Miriam Makeba and Letta Mbulu, Mhlongo has pulled out all the stops to produce an album that bristles with attitude, intelligence and one of the most awesome voices heard around these parts for years. Simply put, 'Urbanzulu' will do for Zulu Maskanda music what Juluka achieved through their albums. The sound is traditional but has been surrounded by some fresh and fizzy tunes and arrangements that do full justice to Busi's range, breadth and vision.

Released on the MELT 2000 label and distributed through Nebula BOS, 'Urbanzulu' will not only become the album against which all future similar albums will be judged but will also take Busi Mhlongo's reputation and music into the new Millennium. These 11 songs were written, arranged and produced by Mhlongo, Themba Ngcobo and Mkhalelwa "Spector" Ngwazi, and run a full gamut of emotions and thoughts, all clearly expressed by Mhlongo's sensitive and confident delivery. Mhlongo's voice cries, whoops, yearns, ululates and wraps itself around all these songs, creating a continuity and interest that keeps this album on a completely non-boring level. There are many complimentary similarities to the Juluka sound, with accordions and effervescent acoustic guitars adding a twinkly feel to the vocals. But this is Busi Mhlongo's album and she has grabbed her opportunity to impress with grace, enthusiasm and some very strong material. 'Urbanzulu' is South Africa's first entry in the 1999 'crack the international market' stakes and could go all the way.  Busi Mhlongo is a one-person impi and you'd better be prepared to be conquered.

Stephen "Sugar" Segerman

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