Thema Maboneng

A 6 track funk album (30m 24s) — released May 24th 2024 on Jazz Room Records

Abacothozi were formed in 1973 by bassist Berthwel Maphumulo, formerly of the Elite Swingsters.

Together with Mac Mathunjwa on organ, his brother Innocent Mathunjwa on drums, and Joe Zikhali on guitar, they recorded at least two albums: "Thema Maboneng" released in 1975 and "Night in Pelican" released in 1976 (reissued on Matsuli Music Compilation "Night In Pelican"). These six sizzling tracks were originally recorded by West Nkosi for the Mavuthela label.

Released without fanfare and then forgotten, they remained totally unknown to DJs and clubgoers for over 40 years.

Rediscovered by Diggers Extraordinaire Kon & Amir for their much-lauded "Off Track Volume Two: Queens" (3xLP) on BBE Records and suddenly, a Volcanic Meltdown Frenzy for a Holiest of Grails emerged with sightings reported in hushed tones just in case you were beaten to the draw in some backstreet waxcave that someone foolishly whispered about on a social media site for all the world to see.

Now, Jazz Room Records is proud to release this epic fusion of sun-soaked exuberance, funk-infused rhythms and soul-jazz-driven beats for the first time in 50 years.

Sounding as if it were recorded yesterday, it is poised to light up dance floors again, from the Vibrant Streets of Soweto to the Funky Basement Dives of Barcelona, filling floors from the Outasite Getdown Grooves of Uncle Funks Palace to the Solid Soul Boulevards of Funky Broadway.

  • Kudos happily ship all items worldwide.
  • Shipping costs and delivery times are available here.
  • UK items are sent tracked as standard at no extra cost.
  • We aim to dispatch orders placed before 2pm on the same day.
  • We are unable to ship orders on weekends or Bank Holidays.
  • If you purchase a pre-order item amongst an order of in-stock releases, we will typically hold your order until all items are in ready to send.
  • Although we use all reasonable means to ensure that your order is delivered within a specified time, we cannot accept any responsibility for late deliveries due to circumstances outside of our control. We will do our best to inform you of any unexpected delay.