THEMBA Pays Homage to His South African Heritage in Meticulously Woven Album, 'Elements Of Africa’

Intricate, stirring, and deeply thoughtful, THEMBA’s sophomore album, Elements Of Africa, plays like a love letter to the South African artist’s native continent. The Johannesburg-hailing talent has imbued his multidimensional blend of house and techno with elements of African culture since he broke out in 2018, often collaborating with local singers, songwriters, and percussionists to define his sound by drawing from his roots. Elements Of Africa is no exception. On it, the Armada Music signee pays homage to his heritage in what just might be his most immersive manner yet, working alongside African vocalists, fellow producers, and instrumentalists to craft an album threaded with heart and authenticity. 

The nine-track project is succinct but rich, with each song representing a core facet of African identity. Together, the collection celebrates the human spirit, humility and strength, the power of love, teamwork, wisdom, hope and faith, creativity, God’s presence, and respect. Listen below.

Elements Of Africa expands THEMBA’s cerebral and rhythmic Afro-electronic signature, juxtaposing the melodic saunter of cuts like its lead single, “Akasha (featuring Double Touch),” with the atmospheric storytelling of others, such as “Kumbuka,” alongside IDQ. In several moments, South African languages, including Zulu and Xhosa, flood speakers, further steeping the LP (fashioned primarily in South Africa) within the continent’s warm and vibrant culture. 

THEMBA's stunning second album is out now via Armada Music. Buy it on Beatport.