What I was not expecting was the wonderful banter, jokes, and dancing that was integrated into the performance. This physical movement and storytelling was important, as it was the way each individual became real to the audience. But even if the concert was devoid of these key elements, the music would have been enough to keep you in your seat. Shabalala has a way with melody and the voices meld into a style that is absolutely unique and beautiful. Melodious harmony mixed with clicks, chirps, percussive grunts and hand claps to forge a wonderfully enthralling experience.
It was fun watching the little tricks the band employed, like utilizing distance from the microphone to highlight dynamics, or how they introduced movement to kill repetition in its tracks before it could be noticed, or how Shabalala exuded an aire of master and teacher (which he is), without conceit.
I entered the doors of the Belk theater in Charlotte not understanding how an a cappella group could hold my attention for a complete evening, I left wishing I could see it again.
The UK still has the Rolling Stones, the US still has Bob Dylan, and Africa still has Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and it would be a mistake not to see them if the opportunity presents itself. If you do, you'll not only enjoy the show, but carry the experience with you for a very long time.
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