hyenah, has, over the last few years helped forge strong ties between the deep house mecca of johannesburg and the cutting edge electronic scene in europe. with a handful of influential and pivotal releases and remixes on a few key labels (objektivity, drumpoet, poker flat, toytonics) hyenah has established himself as a major talent to follow. with his residency and label night rise at berlin institution watergate going from strength to strength, a busy touring schedule taking in ibiza, angola, asia and the u.s, we’re very pleased hyenah still found time to get into the studio so we can present you with the next instalment, the usuthu ep. lead track usuthu featuring the vocals of b’utiza opens the release in fine style with crisp, percussive beats laying the foundation for the precision synths and trademark hyenah afro vibes. those who loved the wish, tale of the dirt and the idea will love this worthy follow up! next up is a second original entitled phases featuring the hypnotic tones of nonku, a much deeper affair but with no less energy and atmosphere. just a more heads down groove for the warm ups and wind downs, nonku’s wonderful vocal elements adding the perfect soulful touch. flipping over we have a wonderful remix from the inimitable mr raoul k. the ivory coast native now residing in berlin has continually wowed us here at freerange with his boabab and mule musiq releases. with his collaborative release alongside manoo just about to drop on innervisions (including a killer dixon edit!), we’re excited to bring you an epic mr raoul k remix of title track usuthu. setting the mood with lush strings and a beautifully paced, beatless intro, raoul k slowly introduces the beats and keyboard parts, layering up the elements and building the energy in the process, resulting in a very special, dynamic version that will connect on a deep level with all who experience it on the dance floor.
