Abdullah Ibrahim (formerly, Dollar Brand, b. 1934) is a respected South African pianist and composer. I return to his body of work for two things: its strong connection to Ellington and its priority for pleasant, folk-like melodies.
During the 1980s his excellent, four-horn group, Ekaya (meaning, home), dedicated its music to the people of South Africa and the anti-apartheid movement. The group’s second album, Water from an Ancient Well, included “Manenberg Revisited” a version of his popular 1974 original. Read up a little on the tune’s history, and you’ll see why this gem is relevant today. Listen to “Manenberg Revisited” to appreciate the power of a simple melody during times of protest.
Like it and want another? Try “Banyana,” from Children of Africa, 1976.