SANKATANA - Mahlalela (1989)

DPMC, DMH9002
Produced by: DPMC


Four tracks of tight, band-driven disco on a label more commonly associated with pre-kwaito electronic sounds (Syndicate Sisters, Phil Your Promise, Philip Mathole). The rock art motif and the shirtless look on the cover of Mahlalela (lazy bones) hint at a roots aesthetic, balanced with some tasteful synths and danceable grooves. Best track 'Prisoner on the Street' deals with issues of poverty and dislocation -

"Walking down the street, looking for a dollar bill,
Since I was a boy, I never ever lived so nice…"