The collaborative album “Madala Wethu”, which means “Our Elder”, is a powerful release from Amapiano artists Mender_ZA and uLazi. This project heavily focuses on the underground, percussive, and spiritual aspects of Amapiano, combining raw log drums with ancestral components, minimal vocal elements, and multi-layered ambient soundscapes.

Mender_ZA, uLazi and Mfr Souls have recently appeared on Pro Max.

The duo establishes a tone from the outset that is both earthy and adventurous, reminiscent of a spiritual initiation ritual with a dance element. Township energy and heritage-driven rhythms are integral to each song, which also experiment with new sounds.

In contrast to chasing commercial trends, the album presents a bold, uncompromising interpretation of what Piano can be, when placed in the hands of creators who are skilled at telling stories and crafting rhythms. Moments that stand out include hooks driven by chants, basslines with a dusty, earthy quality, and hypnotic breakdowns that evoke a sense of encoded messages for those attuned to the spiritual.

Madala Wethu transcends music, becoming a cultural reference point and a form of tribute.

Album Mender_ZA & uLazi – Madala Wethu