Introducing "Singing in Tongues," the captivating new album by the incomparable Ziza Muftic. Embark on a musical journey where genres blend seamlessly, voices intertwine harmoniously, and creativity knows no bounds.

At the heart of this album lies the ethereal beauty of female voices united in song. Muftic, along with vocal powerhouses Zarcia Zacheus and Zsofia Borsanyi of AmaNanule, delivers spine-chilling renditions that transcend conventional boundaries. From the haunting Bulgarian folk melodies of Petar Lyondev's "Ergen Dedo" to Muftic's own compositions and innovative vocal arrangements of jazz classics by legends like Moses Molelekwa, Bheki Mseleku, and John Coltrane, each track is a testament to the limitless possibilities of the human voice.

But "Singing in Tongues" is more than just an album—it's a deeply personal exploration of Muftic's musical roots and influences. Drawing inspiration from her diverse cultural background and extensive training in classical and jazz music, Muftic seamlessly weaves together elements of folk, jazz, and world music to create a sound that is uniquely her own.

Collaboration lies at the heart of this project, with Muftic's longtime collaborators lending their talents to create rich, textured arrangements that breathe life into each track. From the soul-stirring duets with bassist Romy Brauteseth to the evocative quartet numbers featuring guitarist Graeme Sacks, bassist Concord Nkabinde, and drummer Peter Auret, every moment on "Singing in Tongues" is a testament to the magic that happens when artists come together in pursuit of a shared vision.

But perhaps what sets "Singing in Tongues" apart is its willingness to defy expectations and embrace the unexpected. Muftic's fearless exploration of new sounds and textures, from Zulu leg rattles to electronic effects, adds a layer of depth and intrigue to each composition, inviting listeners to experience music in a whole new way.

So, whether you're a jazz aficionado or simply a lover of music that defies categorization, "Singing in Tongues" promises to captivate and inspire. Join Ziza Muftic on a journey of discovery, where voices speak the language of the soul and music knows no bounds.

Track list:

1.       Spirits of Tembisa Music by Moses Taiwa Molelekwa. Lyrics and arrangement by Ziza Muftic

With Concord Nkabinde, Graeme Sacks and Peter Auret. Ziza Muftic on voice and keyboard.

2.       New age by Ziza Muftic

With Concord Nkabinde, Graeme Sacks and Peter Auret. Ziza Muftic on voice and keyboard.

3.       Cycle Music by Bheki Mseleku. Lyrics and the arrangement by Ziza Muftic

With Concord Nkabinde, Graeme Sacks and Peter Auret.

4.       Naima Music by John Coltrane. Lyrics by Ziza Muftic. Zulu Translation by Concord Nkabinde

Concord Nkabinde on the electric bass and Ziza Muftic on voice.

5.       Ablakomba ablakomba Music by Bela Bartok (Hungarian traditional). Arrangement by Ziza Muftic. Introducing AmaNanule vocal trio.

6.       Ergen dedo Music by Petar Lyondev. Arrangement by Ziza Muftic. With AmaNanule.

7.       Rain (Safija) Music by Kenny Barron. Lyrics by Ziza Muftic.

With Romy Brauteseth on the upright bass.

8.       Ziphi Music and Lyrics by McCoy Mrubata

A cappella by Ziza Muftic. Arrangement by Ziza Muftic and Peter Auret.

9.       Mountain shade Music by Moses Taiwa Molelekwa. Lyrics by Sibongile Khumalo. Arrangement by Ziza Muftic. With Concord Nkabinde, Graeme Sacks and Peter Auret.

10.   Ergen dedo by Petar Lyondev.

With Concord Nkabinde, Graeme Sacks and Peter Auret. Ziza Muftic on vocals.

Personnel:

Concord Nkabinde- electric bass (and voice on track 1 and 9)

Graeme Sacks- electric guitar

Peter Auret- drum kit, recording and engineering

Romy Brauteseth- upright bass on track 7

Zarcia Zacheus- vocals on tracks 5 and 6

Zsofia Borsanyi- vocals on tracks 5 and 6

David Cousins- Rhodes on tracks 2, 9, and 10

Ziza Muftic- main vocals, arrangements, composition, keyboard on track 1

Produced by Ziza Muftic and Peter Auret.

Recoded, mixed and mastered by Peter Auret at SumoSound Recording studio in Johannesburg

This album is dedicated to my friends: Pete, Concord, Graeme, Zso, lady Zarcia and Romy.

I am so glad we could do this together!

This work is inspired by the musicality and the artistry of Bobby McFerrin.