Press Article

2003 Oct 15   "CDs"
Publication: Star, Tonight
Byline: Sylvester Haskins

The time, The season
By Concord Nkabinde

The time, The season is primarily a testament to Nkabinde’s myriad influences. It is an eclectic mix of the music that he has been exposed to in his numerous studio sessions playing bass with a diverse array of musicians.
The album features extensive input from local artists. Neil Gonsalves and Seppo Kantonen tickle the ivories, Efrain Toro is on percussion and the fine trumpet sounds on the Latin-American-rhythmed Ngizw’ ingoma come from Price Putlane Lengoasa.
No seed, No life is a particularly captivating compositional piece which reveals Nkabinde’s ability to hold a tune chanting the vocal African-style.
World music influences, essential African rhythms and vocal harmonies form the basis of The time, The season and can be heard especially on the superb tracks Vuka Uzenzele and Uhamb’ ubhekephi.
From time to time, Nkabinde’s bass playing takes a back seat to the melodies and vocals on display. But the entire 14-track album was written by him and is a showcase of his extensive compositional abilities, top-notch bass playing and his love for the continent.
This three-dimensional creative focus from Nkabinde may not go down as a classic recording of all time, but it is a pleasant and insightful account of how the fusion between African and other world music styles can rouse one.