South African gqom act IGqumelasha welcomes Ukhoz’olumpunga and Olwethu Da Singer on a fresh new record titled “Into Ethi ayibenje.” A new singer joins the usual line-up this time.
The Zulu title reads like a street saying, so the song likely speaks to everyday life. Gqom has always worked best when it stays close to the people, and IGqumelasha keeps that habit. Meanwhile, Olwethu Da Singer adds a fresh face to a crew with plenty of history.
Tight snares and rolling toms hold the beat together, and a deep bassline moves under them. A short synth riff repeats often, so the tune stays easy to follow.
IGqumelasha opens in a firm, shouted style that sets the pace fast. He keeps the verses short, yet each line carries clear intent.
Ukhoz’olumpunga follows with a raspy verse, and Olwethu Da Singer then softens the mood with a sung hook. The contrast works because the rough and sweet sides never fight each other.
Gqom does not always carry this much melody, so the record offers a different flavour. Still, the drums stay in charge, and nobody forgets the genre’s roots.
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