Natural Information Society – Since Time is Gravity

Hukwe Zawose was the most internationally recognized musician from Tanzania’s Gogo ethnic group (pastoral nomads native to the deserts of Dodoma region), and this flawlessly recorded release captures Zawose and the rest of his “Master Musicians Of Tanzania” in perfect harmony. The textures on Mateso are lush and punctuated with delicate weavings of instruments and perfectly pitched voices that effortless layer with one another. “Nhonogolo” and “Lukunzi” represent this beautifully with at least three marimbas being played at the same time and several vocalists in call and response. The natural range between the instrument creates an enchanting sonic environment between the plucking of each players’ metal keys. The last track “Tumuunge Mkono” uses a bow instrument that comes close to a drone, and is a sweet ending to a very powerful record.
– Tana Yonas
Recommended – B3 Lukunzi, B1 Sisi Vijana, A2 Nhongolo, A3 Mateso, B4 Tumuunge Mkono
A1 Chisanga
A2 Nhongolo
A3 Mateso
B1 Sisi Vijana
B2 Kononze Mauwo/Mbijili
B3 Lukunzi
B4 Tumuunge Mkono
Hukwe Zawose – Lead Vocals, Chumbam, Marimba, & Izeze
Basil Mbatta – Ngoma & Vocals
Hamsi Waziri – Ngoma, Mambira, & Xylophone
Maulidi Mohamed “Machaprala”- Marimba & Xylophone
Joyce Mioto – Vocals
Martin Burlai – Vocals
Neema Mirambo Vocals