What makes Kazet by Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens notable?

Kazet received critical acclaim for revitalizing interest in traditional South African music, leading to increased visibility for mbaqanga on international stages. The album's success also contributed to a resurgence of interest in South African artists and genres worldwide, influencing subsequent musicians within the genre. Released in 2006, Kazet was a defining moment for Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens, marking their return after a long hiatus since their last album in the late 1990s. This album reestablished their influence in South African music, showcasing their signature sound while appealing to both nostalgic fans and new listeners.

How many songs are on Kazet?

Kazet has 14 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Kazet

Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens · 2006

48 min · 14 tracks

A vibrant blend of mbaqanga rhythms and rich vocal harmonies that evoke the spirit of South African township life.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kazet — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its infectious groove and showcases Mahlathini's powerful vocal delivery, drawing listeners into the rhythmic heart of mbaqanga.
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Ubusuku Nemini — This song highlights the seamless vocal interplay between Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens, creating a dynamic that exemplifies their collaborative artistry and deep-rooted cultural expression.
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Nomshloshazana — With its lively beat and engaging lyrics, this track serves as an invitation to dance, reflecting the joyful spirit of community gatherings typical in South African culture.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Kazet revitalizes traditional mbaqanga with vibrant rhythms and rich harmonies, marking a strong return for the artists.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of traditional mbaqanga rhythms, with each track incorporating layered guitar lines and percussive elements.
Vocal harmonies are prominent throughout, often featuring call-and-response patterns that engage the listener.
Several tracks include interludes of instrumental breaks that allow for rhythmic shifts without losing momentum.
The album maintains a lively tempo across most tracks, with only a few moments of slower pacing to create contrast.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Ubusuku Nemini

The chorus shifts from a jubilant tone to a more contemplative sentiment, contrasting day and night experiences.

This structural change not only enhances emotional depth but also effectively captures the duality of life in township settings.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Amezemula 2:55
2 Nomshloshazana 4:14
3 Hakenyake 4:43
4 Kazet 4:13
5 Muntu Wesilisa 4:26
6 Ndodana Yolahleko 4:03
7 Kade Ulelephi 3:35
8 Mbube 3:58
9 Ubusuku Nemini 3:57
10 Amabhongo 2:06
11 Thandanani 2:36
12 Ukhathazile 3:02
13 Safa Yindlala 3:07
14 Nkosi Sikelela 1:52

What to play next

Listen next

Siyadumisa

2007

Go back to

Reign & Shine

2005

Full Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens discography Artists like Mahlathini and the Mahotella Queens

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata