Transcription Service by Jeanette Tsagane & Soul Giants: A Cape Jazz Gem That Stays With You
You know when you stumble across an album that just feels like home? Like it’s been waiting for you all along, tucked away in some dusty corner of the universe? That’s what happened to me with Transcription Service. This South African treasure from Jeanette Tsagane and her band, Soul Giants, is a warm, soulful embrace wrapped up in Cape Jazz goodness. It’s not perfect—it doesn’t need to be—but dang, does it make you feel alive.
Let’s talk about “Lord, You Made Us Human” first because, wow, this track hits different. Jeanette’s voice here is raw and real, like she’s whispering secrets straight into your ear. She doesn’t overdo it; there’s no flashy vocal acrobatics or trying-too-hard moments. Just pure emotion dripping out of every note. And then Bunny Rachabane’s sax comes in, smooth as butter, weaving around her words like they’re old friends catching up after years apart. I swear, listening to this feels like sitting on a porch at sunset, watching life slow down just enough to remind you how beautiful it can be.
Then there’s “Take Five,” which… okay, yeah, everyone knows Dave Brubeck’s version, but let me tell ya—this one slaps in its own way. Shakes Mgudlwa on piano gives it this playful bounce, while Gordon Mfandu on drums keeps things tight without stealing the spotlight. The whole thing grooves so hard, it makes you wanna grab someone (anyone!) and dance awkwardly in your living room. There’s something magical about hearing a classic reimagined with such care and personality. By the time Sandile Shange’s bassline sneaks in halfway through, you’re hooked. No choice but to hit repeat.
What gets me most about Transcription Service isn’t just the music itself—it’s the vibe. Everything feels lived-in, like these musicians weren’t chasing perfection but connection instead. They’re telling stories, sharing pieces of themselves, and inviting you to join the conversation. It’s messy in the best possible way, full of little imperfections that somehow make it more human.
And honestly? Listening to this album made me realize something kinda funny. We spend so much time searching for meaning in big gestures, huge milestones, grand performances—but sometimes, the stuff that sticks with us is quieter, simpler. Like Jeanette singing softly about being human or Bunny’s sax floating off into the ether. Maybe we don’t always need fireworks. Sometimes, all it takes is a group of talented folks playing together in a room, creating something honest and true.
So yeah, go listen to Transcription Service. Let it sink in. And if you find yourself humming “Take Five” days later or tearing up during “Lord, You Made Us Human,” don’t say I didn’t warn you.
