Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi: Sarawoga

You wish there were more details and liner notes on this warm and embracing disc by South African guitarist/vocalist.  The sparse notes give hints of a family tragedy, and this album is apparently a healing process to heal the loss and declare his steadfast love for God during the hurtful recovery. His strong voice on the intro title track (which means “left alone”) leads into a collection of lilting guitar licks mixed with his warm bear of a vocal tone as on “Huroi”and “Uneyerera.” Songs of healing are supplemented by a vocal choir on “Haidyoreke” that give allusions to a church call and response between the pastor and congregation, while his voice aches on the ballad “Deaf Ear.” Heart warming and soul wrenching at the same time.

www.tukumusik.com

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