Zanefa Ngidi and Phindile Buthelezi alter the normal harshness of maskandi for something lighter on “Happy Birthday.
A birthday tribute, just what it says on the tin. Not every maskandi record has to be weight and history behind it. And sometimes it’s just someone’s day and the music states that straight out.
Guitar is still working here, the same chosen pattern this pair depends on. A bit livelier nevertheless, less sad than Awuthi Veku. Percussion picks up a little too, a more joyous bounce to it than their last together.
Zanefa Ngidi sounds more relaxed here, even warmer. Less of that edge, just more sincere well wishes coming through. Fits the occasion. No need to squeeze grit into a birthday song.
Phindile Buthelezi provides the same answer as always, filling the gap left by Zanefa Ngidi. But she seems to be offering more good wishes here than counterpoint. Whole thing seems like two individuals really thrilled for someone.
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