The Rupertz stun on debut EP

Get ready to immerse yourself in a musical journey that is ‘Out of this World’ with The Rupertz, a dynamic duo of multi-talented DJs and producers who have come together from different backgrounds and experiences to create a project that is a fusion of captivating lyrical content, soulful sounds and electro-house.

Rather than a typical musical offering, this EP is a bold and daring six-track project that showcases a range of vocalists, musicians and producers who are enthusiastic about highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of African culture and its music.

I truly had no idea what to expect when I first popped my airpods into my ears and pressed play on this EP, but was pleased when I did and it was made up of some of the sweetest melodies and smoothest tunes I have ever heard. It really managed to bring a sense of calmness to me, that I must say I appreciate in art.

‘Out Of This World’ was released in mid-February, and I initially thought it was something I could listen to quickly and write about, but I was soon proven wrong. From the moment the first track ‘Tara’, featuring Vapour and Mr Glo, began, I immediately knew this was going to be a journey.

The Rupertz, made of Pex Africah and DJ Shoza, have been in the music game for over 10 years and say they are driven by a desire to create music that is ethereal, or as they put it, ‘from another planet’.
The project draws inspiration from their travels around Namibia.

“We were able to see, experience and realise that Namibia, a multilingual nation, has countless mesmerising locations, and beautiful towns and villages that remain deeply rooted in culture. We wanted to highlight this throughout the EP,” they said.
And highlight it they did.

Firstly, the EP’s cover art, a picture of two Ovahimba youth walking the streets of Opuwo, seems to perfectly capture the beauty that lies in places least expected, far out of reach, or seemingly not of this world.
‘Out of this World’ also features several languages that do not normally take centre stage in mainstream music, such as Damara/Nama and isiZulu, in addition to Oshiwambo.

The EP’s tracks are a fusion of various musical styles and feature vocalists Dark Vapour, SheCantGo, Professor & Meez, musician and pianist Avozinho, guitarist Imms Nicolau, and producers Mr Glo, Asserdeep, and Cuepoint Davinci.

A track that stands out for me is a soulful one called ‘Buya’ and features poet and vocalist Niita ‘SheCantGo’ Shikongo. Another that I think will really manage to capture many music lovers is ‘My Life’, which ups the tempo a bit.

I think these songs sufficiently encapsulate the tone and vibe of this deep house project that is laced with a touch of amapiano, Afrotech and R&B.

This may be The Rupertz’ first release together, but it is clear that they understand music and they know what is timeless. Their passion is evident in the quality of the sound and attention to detail, making this possibly the Namibian project of 2023, an opinion I do not have lightly.

‘Out of this World’ is something you can keep repeat all day long, and which transitions over into sunset vibes seamlessly. It is gentle, without being boring, and rough and rowdy when it needs to be. Most importantly, it is a complete project that really let’s you as the listener interpret it individually.

Keep an eye out for The Rupertz, for they are a pair that marches to the tune of their own drum and are sure to make waves in the music industry.

Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and social commentator from Windhoek, Namibia. Follow her online or email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more.

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