On his fourth album, turntablist and producer Dj Stokie reprises his “Superman” of amapiano persona and launches the next stage of his hero’s journey. Following his first three studio releases—Amapiano Movement, Vol. 1 (2019), My Journey (2020) and My Journey Continues (2023)—Immortal nods at the Soweto native’s longevity and relevance through several iterations of the genre he helped pioneer. In what doubles as a statement and celebration, Stokie, born Setoki Mbatha, bridges the space between the street corner’s cherished deep chords and mainstream panache with trademark soulfulness. Stokie’s signature elegance cuts across mellow bops and lively cuts, occasionally borrowing from R&B and Afropop. As lush melodies and vibrant rhythms drive these compositions, Stokie assembles a talented vocal cast to animate his production. Alongside frequent collaborators Eemoh and MaWhoo, artists such as Faith Strings, ZEENHLE, Sobzeen, Lington, Ndoose_SA and Murumba Pitch support Stokie’s reflections on fun, romance and securing the bag. While “Bonga” follows the amapiano template by pairing warm keys with a percussive tune and catchy refrain, the thrumming “Angi na lutho” and samba groove of “Mandulo” display Stokie’s musical versatility. The infectious “Ndimlo” further broadens the palette with Qwesta Kufet’s raspy tone punctuating an acidic soundbed. It’s these moments that enliven a listen characterised by a smooth fusion of jazziness and upbeat percussion, adding just enough freshness to lay credence to Dj Stokie being Immortal.
- 2020
- Apple Music
- Babalwa M