Bheki Mseleku is widely considered one of the most accomplished jazz
musicians to have emerged from South Africa. His music has a profound
significance in recalling and giving emphasis to that aspect of the
African American jazz tradition originating in the rhythms and melodies
of Africa. The influences of Zulu traditional music, South African
township, classical music and American jazz are clearly evident and
combine to create an exquisite and particularly lyrical style, evoking a
sense of purity and peace that embraces the spiritual healing quality
central to his musical inspiration.
The Artistry of Bheki Mseleku is an in-depth study of his musical
style and includes annotated transcriptions and analysis of a selection
of compositions and improvisations from his most acclaimed albums
including 'Celebration', 'Timelessness', 'Star Seeding', 'Beauty of
Sunrise' and 'Home at Last'. Mseleku recorded with several American jazz
greats including Ravi Coltrane, Joe Henderson, Pharoah Sanders, Charlie
Haden, Billy Higgins and Abbey Lincoln. His music serves as a vital link
to the African-American musical art form that inspired many of the South
African jazz legends.