South African artist IGQumelasha links with UKhoz’olumpunga as the two acts drop the album “Ize Leze.”
“Ize Leze” is a full album, not a single, and it pulls together emotive vocals, traditional rhythms and arrangements rooted in Maskandi culture. The two acts share the load across the project, with storytelling carrying much of the weight.
UKhoz’olumpunga, also known as Thembinkosi Masuku, works out of South Africa and has built a following around songs like “Ithembha Lami” and “Ixoki Lami.” His releases have landed through DistroKid under the 3502273 Records DK imprint, while his music has also appeared on Apple Music and Shazam. Elsewhere, his sound has been described as a blend of Americana and Alt Country, which is an unusual pairing for a Maskandi-leaning record.
That crossover is what makes “Ize Leze” interesting. Maskandi remains one of the country’s most durable traditions, yet it rarely gets treated as a meeting point for different styles. Here, the pairing lets both artists stretch without abandoning where they come from.
Have you listened to “Ize Leze” yet? Drop your thoughts in the comment section below.
