Reviews Episodes

In this episode of TBKS Podcast, we dive deep into the intricate soundscapes and lyrical prowess of ZuluMecca's latest EP, "SEAMS." Join us as we explore the threads that weave together this compelling project, unraveling the themes, influences, and standout tracks that make it a must-listen. From the powerful storytelling to the innovative production, we break down what sets "SEAMS" apart in the ever-evolving landscape of South African hip-hop. The impressive EP features her label-mates, from l...

Welcome back to our show! Today, we're diving into the vibrant world of EASY FREAK, the pop-funk fusion duo we can't get enough of. They've just dropped their highly-anticipated third album, "Everything's Blurred But You," and it's a masterpiece you don't want to miss. This album marks a new high for EASY FREAK, showcasing their tightest, most cohesive work yet. Spanning just 8 tracks and 30 minutes, every moment is packed with energy and precision. From start to finish, you'll be swept up in a...

In this episode, we dive deep into the much-anticipated debut album, ON AIR, by the incredibly talented Filah Lah Lah. After capturing our hearts with her impressive EPs and singles, Filah Lah Lah delivers her most vulnerable and introspective project yet. ON AIR is a musical journey that explores themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery. With its high-level production, exceptional songwriting, and mesmerizing vocal performances, this album is not just a listening experience—it's a mag...

Congolese-Irish rapper, singer and songwriter Nyota Parker, who hails from Cape Town released one of the best hip-hop albums of the first quarter of 2024. The album, titled, "Intrusive Thoughts" Nyota Parker takes listeners on a journey of introspection using carefully crafted, creative songs -- an exploration of her mind and how she sees things. Noyata manages to seamlessly blend hip-hop, alternative R&B, Neo-Soul and other genres to pull off an exciting body of work. Visit TBKS website · Follo...

From making YouTube videos in her bedroom to having one of the biggest songs of 2023, Tyla has seen quite the meteoric rise to stardom in the last 12 months. While we, as TBKS Podcast, have been covering Tyla's music journey since the first single, the majority of the world became aware of her from her Billboard charting hit single, Water. Now almost a year and a Grammy later, she delivered her much anticipated self-titled debut album. We take a look at this very impressive album which features ...

After several delays, a few bumps on the road, and a couple of years later, The Big Hash finally released his anticipated sophomore album: HEARTBREAK HOTEL. As the title suggests, the album follows themes of love and loss. The Big Hash carefully and cleverly uses his artistic prowess to craft a solid body of work that taps into the sounds of contemporary R&B and Hip-hop. The album features the likes of Blxckie, Imani Basquiat, KashCPT, Mo$hpit Cindy, Thato Saul, Tyson Sybateli, and more. Vis...

On this week's episode we are discussing the latest project by R&B singer-songwriter and producer, 2AM. The project is titled: For You, Forever and it features the likes of Phiwo, Sandrahhh along with Karabo and Tineke. The 8-track EP showcases 2AM's capabilities as an impressive singer and songwriter while also reminding us why FTL Radio continues to be one of the most trusted music stables in the country as far as quality goes. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twit...

As we continue our Mars Baby Week on the show, on this episode, we are back with an in-depth review of "Luna" the latest EP from the man himself, Mars Baby. The team unpacks the different elements that make this body of work such an impressive offering from Mars Baby. We also share some of our favourite moments on the project and discuss the features that were carefully selected to be a part of this project. These features include, lordkez, Shekhinah, Roho and Filah Lah Lah. Mars Baby continue...

At this point, Jay Jody is no stranger to The Best Kept Secret Podcast. When it comes to Jody, you can always expect consistency and quality and this new project was no different. While the project, seems to serve as a placeholder for the much anticipated album coming in the near future, Jody still manages to put his best foot forward. The project is titled: Release Form and it boasts guest verses from the likes of A-Reece, Ginger Trill and more! Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Fo...

After much anticipation, Priddy Ugly has delivered his final offering: DUST. This serves as his 4th studio album in a career spanning over 15 years, which also includes, 3 mixtapes, 5 EP's and so many iconic feature verses. Priddy has become a well-respected name in the game by fans and peers alike. DUST features heavy hitters like Maglera Doe Boy, ZuluMecca, Thato Saul, Ginger Trill, Tyson Sybateli, Blxckie and production from the likes of MashBeatz and Shooterkhumz. If this is truly Priddy's f...

Mo$hpit Cindy decided to return from her hiatus by releasing a mixtape out of the blue -- no promo, no rollout. As she clearly put it: all the songs are unmastered but the emotions are just as raw. Why? "Because it's just a mixtape" The project has no features but Mo$hpit offers enough variety to keep listeners entertained from start to finish. It is an exciting time to be a fan of the great Mo$hpit Cindy as she prepares for a big 2024. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS...

One of South Africa's most exciting and dynamic artists, Muzi, has returned with a new album titled: uMuzi. This album comes after "INTERBLAKTIC" which received great acclaim. While the previous album felt like it was more about his journey as an artist, travelling through space and time as "The Zulu Skywalker", this new album seems to focus on his journey as uMuzi the person -- travelling through life, navigating his journey into fatherhood and more. Inspired by childhood memories and experienc...

One of South Africa's most prolific rappers, A-Reece, finally released his long-awaited album "Paradise 2: The Big Hearted Bad Guy". Also known as "P2", this album is supposed to be his classic, his masterpiece. The 19-track album features the likes of Shekhinah, Blxckie, M.anifest, and frequent collaborators, Jay Jody and Joey Fatts. On this episode we discuss the journey that has lead to this moment, Reece's place in the game and what we hope to see in the future from The Boy. Visit TBKS websi...

Cape Town-based artist, J Clu is back with a brand new musical offering titled: BOYZWHO$TRAY. Having been around the new wave scene for more than 5 years now, this new project feels like a culmination of everything he has been working on perfecting as an artist. From the vocal performances, the songwriting and carefully curated production, this project feels and sounds like all the pieces are finally falling into place for J Clu. The project features the likes of Blxckie, Ben September, Lookatu...

On the show this week, we bring you another installment of The Episode About Nothing. Our main topics of discussion include a deep look into Tyla's rise to stardom and her global hit song 'Water', as well as a passionate debate and discussion on the latest Drake album, FOR ALL THE DOGS. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twitter · Follow TBKS on Instagram

Huey Magicman has made his return to music with what is arguably one of the best hip-hop albums to come out of South Africa this year. The album, titled, “ETERNAL”, tackles themes of, love, grief, heaven and eternity. He also explores the idea of the value of an artist’s life vs an artist’s creation. The songs sound joyful and also reflective, which gives the sense that he had to do a lot of introspection to achieve this. This is definitely one of our favourite album reviews of the year. Visit...

Nasty C's fourth studio album, I Love It Here, is a journey and a peak into the mind of one of South Africa’s most gifted musicians of our time. The album feels like the end of an era and simultaneously the beginning of a new chapter for Nasty C. The 19-track album has features from the likes of Benny Butcher, Manana, Ami Faku, Maglera Doe Boy and more. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twitter · Follow TBKS on Instagram

The man himself, Tyson Sybateli, dropped his eagerly awaited mixtape, ‘Present’, not too long ago. The 8-track project is hosted by The Sobering Podcast and has guest verses from Thato Saul, Priddy Ugly, Nanette, Ben September, Mochen, Landrose and Tron Pyre. With this body of work, Tyson sends a reminder that he is here to stay and makes a case for himself as one of the best South African rappers right now. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twitter · Follow TBKS on I...

PatricKxxLee has returned with his new album titled: Room 37. This comes a couple of years after his exceptional album titled: Eternity. With Room 37, PatricKxxLee takes us on an internal odyssey, replete with introspection and empathy. The album features the likes of Sjava, burningforestboy, Kayla Nkwe, Nash, KashCPT, Blxckie and more! Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twitter · Follow TBKS on Instagram

The Best Kept Secret Podcast prides itself with always shining a spotlight on new, talented artists who are still in the early stages of their careers. On this episode, we turn our focus to one of the most exciting hip-hop artists making waves right now, Usimamane. With a brand new project titled "19th" Usimamane offers more than just your traditional trap sound. The bars are on full display, and so are the melodic raps and refreshing flows. He finds ways to showcase his own unique style and use...

One of the most gifted and promising up and coming artists in the South African (Alt)R&B scene is back with what is arguably one of the best R&B projects for 2023. Fentse. is no stranger to the local underground scene but her newest project is that of world-stage level. Her project is called “Therapy Is Cancelled” and it explores a variety of topics and themes related to love, heartbreak, self-introspection and growth. It is one of our favourite projects we’ve covered on the show this year and i...

Several singles and many features later, BELO SALO finally released his much anticipated album titled: “CHOZEN REJECTboi” The soulful album drenched in hip-hop bravado boasts features from the likes of A-Reece, Wordz, Jay Jodi and Blxckie. Throughout the album, BELO peels back layers and reveals quite a lot. The album finds the perfect balance between introspective, thought-provoking themes and lighter songs to just vibe out to. BELO SALO has made sure to offer something to every type of fan and...

Roho is finally back with a new musical offering titled: Vesper. This project comes 3 years after the well-received "Ephemeral" and it is a project that packs many different flavours for every type of Roho fan. It is a daring, vulnerable and captivating experience. Roho is very intentional with every artistic decision made on here and it serves as a reminder why there is really nobody that can compare. Visit TBKS website · Follow TBKS on Facebook · Follow TBKS on Twitter · Follow TBKS on Instagr...

On this week’s episode, we pause from our weekly album review schedule and instead, take a look at the current state of music. Our main focus is on the South African music scene, in particular, the Amapiano wave and the revival and future of SA hip-hop. What are your general feelings about the current state of our music industry here at home? Does South African hip-hop have the potential to infiltrate Western markets the same way AmaPiano has? For you, does it matter much that most of the wor...