AmaJovi Jovi

Released

A classic kwaito album, a rallying call for young Black South Africans to get up, dance, and bask in their newfound freedom after decades of apartheid. Released in 1994 by Sandy B, the six-track record is full of wide basslines, thick grooves and earwormy hooks. The opener title track sounds like a slower Ata Kak, while the banger “Student Night” starts off with Sandy B’s playful Zulu and Sesotho rapping,  the steady beat of a kickdrum, and infectious flute hook. The rest of the album cruises along at a similar mid-tempo pace, with each track staying long enough for you to get comfy and luxuriate in its easygoing, sunlit vibes. The slow-mo hip house “Lafaki (Doggy Style)” is another killer, as is the G-funk “Party Time.”

Megan Iacobini de Fazio