Dudu Pukwana and the Spears 1969

There was a request for this one in the comments section of an earlier Dudu Pukwana posting, so we are only too happy to respond. This one was out on the Quality label in 1969, but info on the time and location of recording and the members of the Spears are lacking on the actual record (see reproduction of the back sleeve), so any fill-in information would be welcome.

Chronologically, I think we're talking about the latter part of the sixties, which might indicate it was recorded in Europe, most likely London. Stylistically, it falls in with the Gwigwi Mrwebi Band, steeped in the township dance music of the time, which came out on an album in the mid-60s and recently rereleased on vinyl. An essential item for any South African collection. This one has little of the experimentation that characterised the Chris McGregor group and the "Very Urgent" record from the late 60s.

The facts, scanty as they may be:

Side A

1. Pezulu (Way Up)
2. Thulula (Fill It Up)
3. Kuthwasi Hlobo (Spring)
4. Half Moon
5. Yima Mjalo (Stick around)

Side B

1. Kwa Thula (Thula's Place)
2. Joe's Jika (Joe's Groove)
3. Nobomwu (Red Head)
4. Qonqoza (Knock)
5. Pho La (Cool It!)

This was up on another blog, but has apparently disappeared. So, therefore, I thought it fit to put it here as it ties nicely in with other recent Dudu Pukwana posts.