Oz Zeros, a multitalented musician born and raised in Secunda, Mpumalanga, droops his latest project, Mountains. It comes after three years of tinkering with African folk music: a sound he explored to move away from his Western influence.
The EP opens with “East Side”, an ode to Mpumalanga and the historical significance of its mountains in the form of a love song. Oz Zeros controls his voice beautifully over minimalist production as he pulls you through a journey that explores natures beauty.
The artist then touches on the temporary highs and hard-hitting lows of chasing a lifestyle revolving around money. There are dark undertones in Oz Zeros clever wordplay and the song has a chilling effect.
“Lifikile” features incredible wordsmith Golden Shovel and the two complement each other gorgeously. The song is about strength and resilience, digging deep to tap into the soul of your ancestors and overcome anything that serves as a barrier to your success.
The underground spirit of Mpumalanga comes alive in “Ultra”: a gritty and murky track riddled with slick bars featuring Lin May, Static, and El Gee. There is a classic posse cut feel to the track with every rapper bringing their A-game.
The bonus song, “Fire Mon”, has some razor sharp storytelling reflecting on the life of an artist who lost it all chasing the dream. The jazzy and whimsical tone of the production, the contagious energy of Oz Zeros, and the harsh-reality of the subject matter make for an immaculate end to the EP.
Feature pic supplied by artist
