This CD compiles the best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo's performances at the Montreux Festival in reverse chronological order. It is also the soundtrack to a DVD of the various concert performances. While these songs do not necessarily represent a "greatest-hits live" collection, they do capture the great yet subtle energy of one of the finest vocal groups in modern history, and Live at Montreux, 1987, 1989, 2000 offers an intimate view of the group as they interact with the audience. Tracks like "Yibo Labafana," "Nkosi Sikelela," "Homeless," and the utterly gorgeous "King of Kings" provide deeper readings into the emotion and sensitivity Ladysmith approach their material with. There is a resonance here and an empathy not always found on their studio offerings. Recommended. ~ Thom Jurek|

Rovi