The 3 brothers from Soweto and their childhood friend who, as little boys, walked dusty dirt roads with their instruments hidden in paper bags to attend music lessons, was the beginning of a legacy that today needs no introduction. Soweto String Quartet, or SSQ for short, has released numerous albums and has become as much a part of our beautiful country’s heritage as boerewors and biltong and Madiba and rugby. They are definitely one of SA’s most loved instrumental ensembles – having played at Nelson Mandela’s presidential inauguration being one of their career highlights. Their black and white zebra striped jackets symbolise how our different cultures in South Africa need each other and SSQ themselves stand for unity and for building our nation. In 2007 they released the album, Soweto String Quartet speel Afrikaanse Treffers, under the creative direction of Louis Brittz and Merchant Music and little did they know that the album would be received so well in the South African community over culture and colour barriers alike. The album was so successful that it flew to gold status within weeks. Now, 6 years and a number of great Afrikaans hits later, SSQ and Merchant decided that it’s the right time to do it again. Soweto String Quartet speel Afrikaanse Treffers Vol 2 promises to take listeners on a South African journey with songs like Timbuktu, Die Bloubul song, Baby tjoklits, ‘n Vrou wil dit hoor and Tussen jou en my to name a few played in SSQ’s unique way. What makes this album extra special is that it also features collaborations between SSQ and artists like Gerhard Steyn, Dozi, Nianell and Anton Goosen on their original hit songs. This album promises to be one of the highlight albums of 2013 that should be in everyone’s CD collection!