by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

Thandi Draai has built a strong reputation as a DJ bringing some of the best Afro house music to the dancefloor, and her contribution to the last in Get Physical’s compilation series continued the good momentum the label have built up.

This fifth volume was actually released in December, but with the nights still long and dark in this part of the world it is a compilation Arcana didn’t want to let slip away.

What’s the music like?

The reason this collection should be praised is of course the music, well chosen and executed, with a number of standout new productions.

Among the best are Draai’s own cuts, headed by the superb Letha with DJ Beekay and the excellent collaboration The Clique, made with Candy Man, Cuebur feat. DJ Clock & Kitty Amor. Draai also turns her hand to one of Get Physical’s biggest hits, Samim’s Heater, in a distinctive remix. BlaQRhythm offers the slightly woozy (in a good way) Insimbi Yamabutho, while Dylan-S & Ed Ward offer the propulsive Phantom, with a fine breakdown.

McK & Nana Atta’s Lungisa is spacey, with an unusual loping break beat that works well, while in contrast Foozak & D.O.A. head for the trancier side of things with Uhula Kweeri, offering some great vocals. Josi Chave & TorQue MuziQ’s Inzangoma, featuring Khokho Madlala, is a powerhouse of a track, but topping these is Africa Get Physical from Suffocate SA and Roland Clark, who delivers a fantastic vocal in praise of the continent and its values. The sentiments – “Let’s all come together so we never have to dance alone” – are spot on.

Does it all work?

It does – Draai’s sequencing is pretty much spot on, and there is rich stylistic variety. Not surprisingly, the rhythmic elements are all on point.

Is it recommended?

Yes – the fifth in an increasingly vital series that is doing a great deal of good for house music. This one has plenty of highs!

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Published post no.2,095 – Thursday 22 February 2024