Nduduzo Makhathini Releases The Myth We Choose, A 16 Track Jazz Statement With Major Collaborations
Nduduzo Makhathini has released his fourth Blue Note Records album, The Myth We Choose, marking a major moment in contemporary South African jazz. The Myth We Choose presents a 16 track journey that blends spiritual jazz, African sound traditions and modern improvisation. The project arrives with strong anticipation due to its scale, its collaborators and its deep conceptual focus. Makhathini continues to position himself as one of the most influential jazz pianists working globally today. This release expands his artistic vision while reinforcing his reputation for bold, story driven compositions.
The album was co-produced by Nduduzo Makhathini and his 18 year old son, Thingo Makhathini, adding a generational layer to the project’s creation. At its core, the record is anchored by Makhathini’s working trio featuring bassist Dalisu Ndlazi and drummer Lukmil Perez. Their chemistry forms the structural base of the album, allowing each track to unfold through live interaction and improvisation. The trio format gives the music a raw and organic energy that drives the entire listening experience. This foundation supports the album’s complex themes and layered sound design.
The Myth We Choose also brings together an impressive list of guest artists from different musical backgrounds. These include flutist Shabaka Hutchings, DJ and producer Black Coffee, trumpeter Robin Fassie and guitarist Kennan Ahrends. Vocal contributions come from Thando Zide, Muneyi and Omagugu. Each collaborator adds a distinct texture that expands the album’s sonic range. The blend of jazz improvisation, electronic influence and vocal expression creates a wide musical landscape that shifts from track to track.
The full tracklist of The Myth We Choose includes Kuzodlula, Imvunge KaNtu, Kwamabili, Unembeza, Liyoze Line Nangakithi, What People Say, Primordial Egg, Ekuqaleni, Ļińwalo ḽa Mubebi, Umbono, Linwalo la Mubebi reprise, Tethered, Ongaphesheya, What People Say featuring Black Coffee and Omagugu reprise, Kuzodlula reprise and Zimthilili. The structure of the album shows a clear narrative flow, with recurring themes and reprises that tie the project together. These repetitions create continuity while also allowing reinterpretation of key musical ideas. The sequencing highlights Makhathini’s approach to storytelling through sound rather than conventional song structure. Each track contributes to a broader conceptual arc that unfolds across the full listening experience.
The album reflects Makhathini’s continued exploration of spirituality, memory and identity through music. His approach to composition often blends improvisation with deep cultural and philosophical themes. The inclusion of both established international figures and emerging South African voices strengthens the album’s global reach. At the same time, it remains grounded in African musical traditions and rhythmic structures. This balance between heritage and experimentation defines the identity of the project and positions it within a broader evolution of jazz music.
The release of The Myth We Choose reinforces Nduduzo Makhathini’s standing as a leading voice in contemporary jazz. The combination of his trio, his son’s co-production input and the diverse guest features creates a layered and ambitious body of work. It reflects both personal and collective storytelling, shaped by collaboration and artistic vision. As listeners engage with the 16 track journey, the album offers depth, complexity and emotional range. It stands as a significant addition to Makhathini’s discography and a strong statement in modern jazz expression.
