Thandiswa Mazwai is an indelible part of the South African cultural landscape. Eight years after her beginnings with the award-winning Bongo Maffin group, she releases her first solo project - the album Zabalaza, a work which transcends borders & musical genres. Including tastes of traditional Xhose rhythms, upbeat Mbaqanga, a touch of reggae, thumping kwaito and quasi-gospel sounds, the record is a truly unique and uplifting aural experience. Mixing the urban with the rural, the traditional with the modern, the music of Thandiswa has been wowing audiences during her recent tours of Africa, France, UK, Spain and India. An hugely talented performer and musical ambassador for her nation, Zabalaza is a magnificent musical journey. La Escondida. 2006.