Nine men sonorously harmonised to create a beautifully rounded serene sound – no ladies, or indeed smiths, to be seen.
Most songs were based on the repetition of a few musical phrases, then repeated while a soloist sang over the top, making alterations to the theme each time.
The repetition continued while members of the group worked through a series of energetic dance movements, mainly based on high kicks. At one point I wondered if they’d ever considered releasing an exercise DVD – Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s High Kicks Workout. They bantered and joked amongst each other, creating a light-hearted, good-humoured atmosphere.
Therefore it feels churlish to say that after a while I was feeling bored and wishing they would sing a different style of song.
Although the group are obviously extremely talented performers, their drawn-out repetition of phrases was at first soporific, and ended up being almost irritating.
This was obviously not the opinion of the majority of the audience, who gave them a standing ovation.
My personal highlight of the night, however, was the support act. Netsayi, a singer from Zimbabwe whose quirky songs were accompanied by a minimal band of two, was completely charming.
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