Selaelo Selota is a South African two-time SAMA award Jazz winning artist, who’s music is delivered in the rich intriguing ’sepedi’ language accompanied by his well-loved guitar-playing skills that had fans from all walks of life falling in love with his previous albums.
Now with the release of his 5th album titled “Lapeng Laka“ meaning ‘my home’, Salelo Selota is back promoting his 14-track album that tells tales of his life in Limpopo, South Africa. Selaelo invites his fans into his world, defined by culture and the ‘pedi’ tradition of a young boy turned into a well cultured man who defeated the odds and lived to tell his life story. He shares all the elements of his childhood, and the gift of story-telling, passed on to him by his elders.
I must say that, as one who understands a little portion of the ’sepedi’ language, and a lover of jazz music, “Lapeng Laka” is more than just an album. It is a music investment, guaranteed to calm you after a long stressful day in the world. The songs in the album are a reminder that no matter where we are in life we must never be too grown or too important to go back and get in touch with our roots or our birthing place. I love how, even though his upbringing was not a walk in the park, he still embraces it and celebrates what, and who, he has become.
Selaelo Seloto truly is a profound story teller, who stays true to what/who made him and that has been a big element in this album. I highly recommend his new album to those familiar with the Northen Sotho languange and also to those who simple have love for African jazz music.
07/23/09
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