497. Various Artists, "The Indestructible Beat of Soweto"

 


Obviously the touchstone for white Americans with this is that “wow, Paul Simon really lifted this for Graceland,” but let me reiterate that Paul Simon really lifted this for Graceland.  Like you can hear riffs, little melody parts, bits of song that ended up in Graceland (which is #46, btw).  Now, I understand that Simon collaborated with South African musicians and all that but it just seems bad somehow.  Anyway, back to this album.  If I had to think of one word to describe it, it would be “exuberant.”  It’s like bursting out of the grooves with energy.  Just joyful and amazing.

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