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May '13

Hola mpinji! You're at AFROSYNTH, the realest African selection . . .

This month we bring you new school queens FABASI and V-MASH, traditional vibes from PURE GOLD and MTUSENI SIBIYA and co, crossover from WALK THIS WAY, Shangaan grooves from KAYA, an early bubblegum classic by MARGINO and an unknown gem from JERRY GREEN.

Last month it was SHALOM, TOM DOLLAR and LAWRENCE 'SACKEY' GOREOANG, RALPH MARTIN, the original NINJA, the West Nkosi-produced IBIZA, IZIHLABENI and reggae legends JAMBO. We kicked off 2013 with a brand new mix: AFROSYNTH XII: Free At Last, a selection of recent additions to the library. Also don't miss the new 'Best of Afrosynth' compilation from the good people at eFrika. Sharp!

WILLIAM MTHETHWA & THE YOUNG FIVE - Cost of Living is Too High (1987)

Roy B/Dephon, RBL127   
Producers: William Mthethwa, Richard Mitchell, Phil Hollis   
Engineer: Richard Mitchell       
Recorded at: Powerhouse & Battery Mobile


William 'Mr Everything' Mthethwa's backing band The Young Five were bigger than their name suggested - made up of keyboard trio Sam Moatshe, Dumisane Dlamini and Justus Mfocwa, as well as Henry Martin on guitar, Molefi Motijoane (bass), Shakes Radebe (drums), Solly Mochane (congos) and Sipho Bengu on sax. They had a big hit with the title track, while 'Tokoloshe' and 'Jikeleza' also catch this charismatic singer at his bubblegum best. "This album is dedicated to millions of jobless people all over the world. Hope 1987 is going to be a better year."