|
Robert 'Doc' Mthalane SOUTH AFRICA |
|
The late acoustic and electric guitarist Robert 'Doc' Mthalane
On 'Respect' : "..this is one of those albums that can enrich your life
and soothe your soul."Seven Magazine Sep 2000 Robert 'Doc' Mthalane was
a constant in the South African pantheon of virtuoso guitarists since
the late '60s. He first picked up the guitar at the age of 11 and was
naturally influenced by his brother Enoch, an outstanding guitarist in
his own right who currently performs with Jonas Gwanga. His first group
was the heavy rock outfit Naked Truth and then in 1978 he joined
Harare. In the earlier stage of heis careeer Doc toured with and wrote songs for Busi Mhlongo
Albums:
- Respect
A historically important group in terms of the development of
South African music, Harare recorded three albums and had a number of
hits. When they split he formed Kesaba who recorded four successful
albums. During the 80's he started experimenting with his own concept
of music that mixed the traditions of Africa with rock. He earned
himself the nickname, "the Jimi Hendrix of South Africa", and in the
90's spent his time both playing with and writing songs for acclaimed
Zulu singer Busi Mhlongo and her group Twasa. He first came to
M.E.L.T.'s attention whilst working with Madala Kunene, and the two
were joined by legendary percussionist Mabi Thobejane to record this
album in England in 96. With intermittent bouts of sickness, the
recording of this album was a long and difficult experience for all
involved, but the music produced reflects the simple beauty of being
alive, and pays homage to one of the greatest guitarists to have arisen
from South Africa. Produced by Brice Wassy, Respect (BW2094)features Busi Mhlongo and Lungiswa Plaatjies
who combine their stunning voices on the final track Song for Doc. With
surging crescendos, this deeply moving tune is a fitting tribute to
'Doc's' last recording. Sadly on the night of Friday May 15th Robert
'Doc' Mthalane died in a Durban hospital, leaving us with one last
exquisite album of uplifting and heart-rending beauty.
|
|
