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This is a very substantial album from start to finish which takes in a large number of themes, guests and styles, all the while underpinned by Vusi’s marvellous voice and songs.

Coming from an artist who has strived to inspire through his music since the age of seventeen, this record astounds because of the way the songs unravel so effortlessly to present so many beautiful moments. As the record progresses you realise just how easily the songs are flowing individually and together, marrying English and South African languages seamlessly with a kaleidoscopic backdrop of African and European instruments and grooves.

At times political, at other times extremely personal, but continually sincere and genuine, Vusi sings with such feeling and immediacy so as to really get the feel and message of each song across. The vocal delivery on ‘Song for Thandi’ is so sincere and mature that it really matters, while the jazz-like scat which runs throughout ‘Thula Mama — Don’t Cry Mama’ is simply a joy from start to finish.

‘River Jordan’ is extremely arresting and calming, bubbling along acoustically; like a lot of the tracks on this record it successfully combines magic performances with beautifully crafted songs.

Throughout the record there are at least sixty one musicians who strive to enhance the impact and carry the message across. Occasionally, the sound is a little giddy because of this, but on the whole, it all adds up to a rich sound full of little intricacies left right and centre.

It’s at once sparkly and organic, all centred upon filling out Vusis’ rich voice and beautiful song craft. It’s a real success, everything which is hinted at seems to be realised. The sheer volume of excellent songs astounds, their range and dynamics combine to give a record with real depth and quality which shines from beginning to end.

Fly feature on Vusi Mahlasela