There's an infectious sense of energy and joy exhibited by the recently-formed Soweto Gospel Choir—comprised of some two dozen members chosen from the population of the titular South African township—who are enthusiastically received by the large audience at this 2005 Melbourne concert, filmed by the Australian Broadcast Corporation. Dressed in characteristically colorful garb and accompanied by a small complement of instrumentalists, the group performs more than 20 numbers, most of them traditional South African pieces, as well as their new democracy's national anthem, and a few wider-known songs, including Peter Gabriel's “Biko” and the Bob Marley classic “One Love.” Boasting fine sound (with Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo options) and fluid camerawork, the concert—which features plenty of dancing and pulsating rhythm—certainly makes for an enjoyable time, while three bonus featurettes (on the choir, the concert producers, and the group's financial support of charities serving AIDS-infected orphans in South Africa) provide solid DVD extras. The only major blemish is the absence of translations of the songs performed in the various South African languages—but even without subtitles, the group's exuberance and striking harmonies make this easily recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Soweto Gospel Choir—Blessed: Live in Concert
(2005) 131 min. DVD: $19.99. Acorn Media (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. ISBN: 1-56938-873-3. Volume 21, Issue 5
Soweto Gospel Choir—Blessed: Live in Concert
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