Sizwe Alakine’s debut album, Alakine World, portrays his versatile style in which he fuses hip hop with amapiano beats, hinged on uniquely synthesised percussive baselines.
In his track “After Tears” which features DJ Stokie, Boohle and Tycoon, he pays tribute to those that have lost their lives, highlighting how loss is never easy. Particularly the transition of feelings one has to endure whilst trying to maintain a balance of normalcy, and how then it becomes imperative to don a facade to get through life. Loss is never easy and we process grief differently and we require solidarity within our grief. This song brings about an ambivalent mood – and, coupled with Boohle’s vocals and beats, it turns out as a banger.
“Bring it Back” featuring Jillz, Strickly Bk, Roii and Sauwcy changes the album’s mood and gives it a sultry yet soulful feel. It portrays a beautiful example of what love and forgiveness should be and speaks to those that are on the quest of forgiving their partners and themselves.
“Ntaka [Imali Ayikho]” highlights economic disparity, “Ntaka [Imali Ayikho]” gets real on living hand to mouth, while “Abantu” lifts the spirits once again with a tongue-in-cheek account of a nosey neighbour.
Sizwe Alakine’s presentation of his 13-track album consists of tracks that are equal parts catchy, deeply relatable, and maintain an effortlessly upbeat vibe. It’s always refreshing to witness an artist bring out a good album especially if it showcases how township life is and the adversities faced – all through the lens of relatable sound. This is a must have summer banger album that will keep people dancing the night away.
Feature pic supplied by artist
