Time

With Time, famed South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela releases his first album of new tunes in three years. And, yes, the disc is an unqualified triumph. Masekela's distinctive trumpet/flugelhorn sound is one of the most recognizable sounds in world jazz. The album opens with "Send Me," a post-apartheid message of hope and aspiration that features the first of many elegantly phrased Masekela horn solos. "Conchita," a wonderful bit of mellow Latin jazz, is Masekela's tribute to Tito Puente's salsa vibe—Masekela's earliest musical influence. "Happy Mama" has some of the bounce of township jive, with the lyrics recounting a joyful reunion of mother and daughter following the daughter's return from exile. Masekela sings the aforementioned songs. The CD also features instrumentals, such as "Mamoshaba," "Thimlela," "Change," and "Part of a Whole." A genuine pleasure, indeed, to hear new Masekela music.—PVV