Get off your feet for Buru 3

This time of year, many artists are getting ready for the southern hemisphere summer. As the weather warms up, more and more music is being released – everyone is trying to deliver that sound that will carry us through the festive season.

One such project, which I believe could be a contender for just that, is A Gulp’s Worth’s extended play (EP) ‘Buru 3’. Released at the end of August, this four-track dance and techno ensemble has a sound quality that’s impossible to ignore, and the first project I noticed.

If you’re a fan of this genre, I have a feeling you’ll find yourself playing these tracks over and over again.

What makes this special is that it comes from a genre that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves in Namibia. Techno, while popular around the world, is still somewhat niche here, but its impact on local entertainment is undeniable.

Additionally, it is pleasant to see how local artists infuse a familiar touch into techno.

The EP features four tracks: ‘Shadows’ with Devitchi and Romano Nauseb, ‘Kanilonga’ with Teqnosoul and ST, ‘How Long’ with Motiion, WATERS, Gogo Sax and Chifry, and ‘We Mama’ with Devitchi.

Each song offers something unique, but if you’re looking for a standout, ‘Kanilonga’ is the one to watch. It samples music from Namibian legend Tate Kwela, a pleasant surprise indeed. It gives the song a nostalgic feel.

Meanwhile, ‘How Long’ features the instantly recognisable vocals of WATERS, whose voice is both haunting and comforting. It’s an emotional song that’s catchy, easy to remember and creates a mood that sticks with you long after the song ends.

The duo behind A Gulp’s Worth, Petrus ‘P-Kay’ Kamati and Rodney Taylor, tell us their goal with ‘Buru 3’ was to create something that sonically represents their hometown Walvis Bay and, by extension, Namibia as a whole.

“[It] was us trying to find a sound that defines the music that comes out of our country, with each song being a different genre within dance,” says Taylor.

The two are no strangers to the scene as they’ve been experimenting with music since their high school days.

Since forming A Gulp’s Worth, Kamati and Taylor have made a name for themselves in the local music community. If you’re someone who frequents the tech and EDM scene in Namibia, you’ve probably already seen their names on event posters.

Their live performances have earned them a dedicated following, and it’s easy to see why. They have a talent for creating music that not only makes you want to move but also makes you think.

Before forming A Gulp’s Worth in 2021, they worked on several other projects, each helping them refine their sound. This includes two previous ‘Buru’ editions. Their approach makes ‘Buru 3’ feel like a carefully curated journey through the different styles that shape the local music scene.

From soulful R&B influences to the more upbeat and energetic sounds of funk and techno, this EP showcases the diversity of dance music.

Overall, we are ecstatic about local music’s ability to grow and evolve, and this is, no doubt, an addition to the Namibian music landscape.

As we head into the warmer months, it’s definitely one to keep on your playlist.

– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and social commentator. Follow her online or email her annehambuda@gmail.com.