Zamrock Zeitgeist

We start the week with news of a reissue of a fantastic 1970s Zambian rock album - "45,000 Volts" by Ngozi Family. It came out last Friday, and is the latest in a long line of great Zamrock reissues by the admirable Now-Again label.

There is a slight catch, which is that it is only available in vinyl (at least for the moment). But if you have a spare £25 burning a hole in your pocket there are many worse ways of spending it. Don't just take my word for it, ask people who do proper reviews like The Vinyl District.

If you are looking for a slightly cheaper introduction to the delights of vintage Zambian rock, then I would heartily recommend Now-Again's "Welcome to Zamrock" compilations, either Volume 1 or Volume 2. As well as Ngozi Family you can also find the likes of Amanaz and Chrissy 'Zebby' Tembo, both of whom we have featured here in the past.

Here is the opening track of "45,000 Volts" followed by one selection of each of the two volumes of "Welcome to Zamrock". Then we wrap things up with a fascinating mini-documentary about the history of Zamrock. Never say I don't spoil you.

"Nizakupanga Ngzo" - Ngozi Family

"Fwe Bena Zambia" - Five Revolutions

"Love And Freedom" - Keith Mlevhu