Hugh Masekela

Hope Hugh Masekela

This recording by South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela is arguably one of the most frequently played demo LPs at hi-fi events. For “Hope,” Masekela assembled a seven-piece band with which he recorded this live set at the Washington jazz club “Blues Alley”—the very same U.S. club that also gave us Eva Cassidy’s incomparable “Nightbird” recording. As one of the most successful ambassadors of African music, Masekela’s fusion of the continent’s rhythms and instruments with rock and contemporary jazz proved irresistible. The musician, who rose to prominence through guest appearances with The Byrds and Paul Simon, celebrated his breakthrough in 1968 with the hit “Grazing In The Grass,” which, along with 11 other magnificent tracks, can be found on “Hope.” The honest and deeply personal songs span a period of nearly five decades and can certainly be understood as a journey through Masekela’s life.

Analogue Productions honors “Hope” and Hugh Masekela with this brilliant sounding Hybrid-SACD.

Some press quotes:

“Notably, despite its early-1990s origins, this is all-analogue.” (Ken Kessler, HiFi News, May 2018)

“...”Hope” is one of those intensely visceral, large as life, and immediately present recordings that will make pretty much any system sound at least very good, and will cause better ones to raise goose bumps.” (Wayne Garcia, The Absolute Sound, August 2008)

“...The high quality original mix plus Analogue Productions' superb mastering has resulted in a terrific, very transparent sonic with great impact.” (John Henry, Audiophile Audition)

“Wow! Hugh Masekela never sounded more real – the best Masekela album, a definitive must have!” (Danny Kaey, Positive-Feedback Online)

We recommend the use of "L'Art du Son" CD/DVD conditioner for even more sonic improvement.