The Jukebox Rebel

Well, I thought “Star Time” was kinda neat in 1964 but, boy oh boy, Volume 3 blows it out the water. The exquisite 4-part harmonies remain but this time around these Johannesburg girls, including here Joyce Mogatusi and Grace Moeketsi, are fully immersed in their own culture, with terrific backing in the mbaqanga style provided by Alexandria Black Mambazo. “Star Time Volume 3” (the 3rd in their 4 part series) is a must for a sunny day – it’s simply joyous and glorious, and it’s an album which just keeps on pleasure giving. “Hole Thabe” is my absolute favourite – it’s a masterwork from every angle; a phenomenal track. It was first issued as a single in 1966, before settling down to live here on their excellent third LP. The liner notes, written for the benefit of a western audience, don’t reveal too much: “Because of the popular demand for the Dark City Sisters, we have great pleasure in presenting another LP by this well-known group. This is a collection of some of their most popular songs, including their latest hit “Mmamokgwantiti” (JP-1082). We’re sure that this album will give you great pleasure, whether at parties or just listening at home.” I’ll say one thing for the copy writer – no lies were told!

The Jukebox Rebel
23–May–2012

A1	[01:57] Dark City Sisters - Keyalema (?) Africana
A2	[02:11] Dark City Sisters - Amangwane Amyame (?) Africana
A3	[02:20] Dark City Sisters - Thathu Kisi (?) Africana
A4	[02:24] Dark City Sisters - Jimmy (?) Africana
A5	[02:23] Dark City Sisters - Mazulu (?) Africana
A6	[02:22] Dark City Sisters - Malenkhu A Marumo (?) Africana
B1	[02:34] Dark City Sisters - Lelo Hashe (?) Africana
B2	[02:14] Dark City Sisters - Hole Thaba (Caroline Kapentar) Africana
B3	[02:22] Dark City Sisters - Dithamakwane (?) Africana
B4	[02:12] Dark City Sisters - Isin Kwa Nofishi (?) Africana
B5	[02:40] Dark City Sisters - Ingwababa (?) Africana
B6	[02:27] Dark City Sisters - Mmamokgwantiti (?) Africana

ratings by TJR