Although usually heard backing the groans and surging vocals of
Mahlathini,
the Mahotella Queens can certainly perform on their own. A working unit since 1964, they show on this new release that their harmonies and leads deserve attention on their own. There are celebratory praise songs such as "Africa" and the title track, numbers done in both their traditional language and English, a wonderful remake of
Bob Dylan's "I Shall Be Released," and the potent message tracks "Homeless" and "I'm Not Your Good Time Girl." ~ Ron Wynn