The release of “Morea-rea”, the first single off Morena Leraba’s forthcoming Fela Sa Ha Mojela EP, marks an important step in the musician and band’s aim to use its music to house older versions of Sesotho language.
Now the band takes that intention further with the release of “Meritlhoana” the second single off the EP which is due out on February 24th.
Morena Leraba comments on “Meritlhoana”
“Meritlhoana are foot or ankle rattlers (or shakers) worn mainly by traditional healers or musicians during ceremonies (Hlophe) and other special events and the song is about a spiritual calling, The words of the song, or chorus, are inspired by a song I heard when I was young — a group of traditional healers. Sangomas (or Mathuela in Sesotho) and their trainers singing in my village of Matholeng, in Mafeteng (South-West of Lesotho).”
“Meritlhoana” tells the story of a character who has a spiritual calling (ho thoasa in Sesotho) with the message coming through a series of dreams. In these dreams, the character is aware he needs to find answers but he’s confused as some messages are not clear. Eventually, while he’s shrouded in confusion and uncertainty, he hears a voice: “this is a gift, and it is for you”, and, afterwards, everything is clear.
The song also draws inspiration from seeing multidisciplinary artist Buhlebezwe Siwane’s exhibition at Hiddingh Campus in Cape Town.
Morena Leraba comments
“Through the works of many young contemporary South African artists, one realises how apartheid (and Colonialism) has robbed the colonised of so much in present-day South Africa, including their spirituality. Colonial laws and churches demonised “Ubungoma” (or the practice of being a Sangoma) and healers, herbalists and many had to practise in secrecy. Africans’ connection to spirituality was classified as witchcraft and ungodly.”
Over the past eight years, Morena Leraba has become a globally acclaimed flagbearer of a remodelled Lesotho sound, manifested through a series of live performances, numerous high-wattage collaborations with artists such as Major Lazer, Moonchild Sanelly, BLK JKS, inclusion in Damn Alburns ‘ African Express’ and, due out in 2023, a debut EP recorded in Johannesburg.
“Our record simply solidifies the dynamism in our sound — coming of age, and we’re humbled by your patience and optimism.” says the band of its highly-anticipated and long-awaited first release.
You can stream / download the track HERE.
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