Review: iPhupho L'ka Biko, the highly acclaimed Africanist experimental jazz band, shares their debut EP, 'Azania', on vinyl via Canadian record label We Are Busy Bodies. Following the success of their two acclaimed singles, 'Abaphezulu', released through Brownswood Recordings, and 'uThixo uKhona', distributed by Platoo, the band dedicated the year 2022 to recording and producing this eagerly awaited EP, which they self-released earlier this year. Azania delves into the rich tapestry of themes held close to the band members' hearts, such as spirituality, Pan Africanism, freedom, love, ritual, tradition, culture, and displacement. The EP showcases iPhupho L'ka Biko's unique musical fusion, blending jazz with indigenous African music of imvumane in tracks like Qamata, and infusing jazz with gospel influences in songs like Singabakho. This eclectic approach reflects the fluidity and diversity of the band's sound, promising an immersive and captivating musical journey.
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