<body><![CDATA[Hugh Masekela’s role as an campaigner against apartheid sometimes came close to overshadowing his music. While some of his output veered towards an easy-listening brand of fusion, his best work delivered an uplifting combination of jazz sophistication and township roots. Still Grazing casts a shrewd eye over the trumpeter’s career and his sojourn in the United States. While his cover of Up, up and Away remains a real period piece, the rest of the track list hardly puts a foot wrong – long-time fans will be pleased to know that the ever-popular Grazing in the Grass gets pride of place – and Masekela’s impassioned vocals bring a raw edge to The Healing Song (Bajabula Bonke). He was creating world music before the term was ever invented. Click <a href="asfunction:Tardis.webPageOpen,http://www.bluethumb.com"><b>here</b></a> to visit the official Blue Thumb Records website. Buy for £12.99 or less, including postage and packaging, before July 26. Subject to availability.Pictures: IGNUS GERDER and D MICHAEL CHEERS]]></body>