Renowned South African artist Muzi is poised to captivate audiences with his eagerly awaited studio album, uMUZI, scheduled for an October 13th debut via Fool’s Gold Records, accompanied by the enchanting lead single ‘eMtunzini’, providing a tantalizing preview of the album’s intricate musical landscape.
After the critical acclaim received for his 2021 masterpiece ‘Interblaktic,’ which drew accolades from industry giants like Zane Lowe, Billboard, Complex, and The Fader, Muzi returns with ‘uMUZI‘, an album that takes him back to his roots, anchored in his memories and a yearning to reconnect with his late parents.
uMUZI, conceived as the sonic embodiment of his family’s cherished Toyota Cressida, weaves together the musical fabric that surrounded Muzi during his formative years. It melds the sounds that have not only shaped his artistic journey but also resonate as the stories he yearns to recount on a final family road trip. The album delves into Muzi’s profound relationship with his father, who left an indelible void when he passed away when Muzi was just 11. It also encapsulates his own experiences of fatherhood as he raises his daughter, Zeno.
For Muzi, uMUZI represents an exploration of introspection and personal growth – a testament to the power of self-reflection, using the lessons of the past to fuel a brighter future.
The release of ‘eMtunzini‘ offers an exquisite taste of what’s to come on uMUZI. The track, an alluring fusion of house and disco elements, narrates a romantic journey through Muzi’s soulful musical lens. The lyrics, seamlessly oscillating between Zulu and English, narrate his parents’ love story, painting a vivid picture of their first encounter. Muzi’s description of the single as an “aural autobiography” aptly captures the personal essence he infuses into his music.
The accompanying music video for ‘eMtunzini’ masterfully showcases Muzi’s artistic vision. Assuming his father’s persona, Muzi embarks on a symbolic voyage to the coastal town of Mtunzini, signifying a connection that transcends time and generations.
‘eMtunzini’ is a tantalizing teaser of the album’s broader palette. With its amalgamation of gleaming synths, infectious basslines, and harmonically layered vocals, the track evokes a nostalgia reminiscent of ‘80s synth-pop, enriched by Muzi’s distinct afro-house influences.
As uMUZI beckons listeners on an emotive journey through Muzi’s heritage and personal evolution, it stands as a testament to his artistry and the transformative power of music.
Image Credits: © Earl Abrahams (Press Kit)
