LORRAINE STAPLE - Here I Come (Sizolala La) (1986)

Gallo/GRC, HUL40098

Producer: Richard Siluma

Engineer: David Segal

Recorded by: RPM Studios

Soulful grooves with the unmistakeable Stimela influence courtesy of a backing band of Ray Phiri, Thapelo Khomo, Felani Gumbi and Nana 'Coyote' Motijoane (Lorraine writes: "Nana, with your raunchy voice and arrangements you have made this album into something special"). Produced and engineered by Richard Siluma and David Segal, the same duo behind Lucky Dube and Stimela. Siluma takes care of Roland 707 and Yamaha DX7, with Tim Kraft on Linn 9000. This was her second full-length album, after the debut single 'On The Road Again/Let The Music Move Me' (1984) and the album You Belong to Me (1985). In 1986 Staple also recorded 'Together We'll Make It', a duet with Lucky Dube, which featured in the SABC's First National Song Festival.

"Lorraine Staple's solo career was Lloyd Lelosa's dream. Her real name was Lorraine Sibisi... Her music was the alternative of the time to Disco music. She had a mellow voice and her style of singing reminded one of Mavis Staples of the Staple Singers" (Mojapelo, 2008: 106-107).

Writes Siluma in the cover notes: "Lorraine Staple releases this album for her fans, in the hope that this is what they have been waiting for. Her message is: If you are tired of hearing daily disco music, this is the kind of music to listen to. Sit down, stretch your legs, relax and let Lorraine make you "Feel the Fire" in her music. We hope you enjoy this album."