With co-signs from Shimza, Sun-El Musician, Zakes Bantwini and many more, Mpho.Wav’s debut album was destined for greatness before it was even released.
His contemporaries are calling it the “Afro-House Album of 2024”, and with artfully constructed beats and an unparalleled production quality, that statement isn’t hyperbole. It’s a convergence of genres, where the ethereal tones of live jazz meet the exalted echoes of gospel; where the dynamic rhythms of Amapiano and Gqom collide in perfect harmony with deep house sensibilities.
But Mpho.Wav’s attention to atmospheric production is the best thing about this transcendent debut, driven by celestial chord progressions and vivid soundscapes.
The record was made under the expert guidance of mentor and friend Sun-El Musician, and his influence really shows, while collaborations with Da Capo, Simmy, Mthunzi and other industry titans bring an added layer of rich diversity.
From the melancholic keys of opener “YOUR WORLD” (feat. Leko M) to the immersive bass of the record’s top performing single “LOVE” (feat. Azana), Mpho.Wav is the undisputed new face of South African House – there’s just no way around it.
Tracks like “CHAR’S LYRICS” (feat. Sun-El Musician) and “EMINI” (feat. Simmy) are rhythmically solid, making for brilliantly danceable interludes that will no doubt be on steady rotation across dance-floors this summer. But what’s more, they are each a testament to the way in which Mpho.Wav has been able to foster community through his music – a collaborative labour of love.
