Thabilé (ZAF/GER)

"Read my lips." The invitation contained in the eponymous title of Thabilé's new album is easy to follow. Firstly, because the singer brings a high-quality, colorful mix of Afro, gospel, jazz, and rhythm'n'blues, along with sparklingly polished soul songs and catchy pop ballads to the stage, all delivered with joy and energy. Secondly, because she really has something to say with her powerful voice, which covers all the highs and lows. Thabilé knows what she is singing about when she talks about life in the townships of South Africa.