Amandla! A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony  (Audio CD) 
by Various Artists

Forgive the cynicism, but it’s hard to believe that South Africa’s civil war was actually a successful one waged without a full-scale battle. Happy endings to tragic events seem to be the stuff of fairy tales rather than real life. Perhaps it’s due to the fact that apartheid was a travesty that the colonialists couldn’t continue to live with. More likely, it’s the spirit of South Africa’s black people that made it happen. This 29-track soundtrack for the Sundance-winning documentary features a musical history of the movement, often highlighting powerful rallying cries of revolution. There’re songs from such well-known figures as Mariam Makeba, Hugh Masekela, Abdullah Ibrahim, and South African star Vusi Mahlasela, as well as members of Pretoria Central Prison and chanting crowds from various town hall meetings. Unlike typical CDs, the singers, musicians, and performances are less important; it’s the premise that’s the key here, and this moving collection adeptly captures the South African people’s strength and resolve to win their battle for freedom. --Tad Hendrickson