Wot do you call it, gqom? Well, yes. South Africa, and more precisely, Durban, has been incubating a vibrant micro-community of music makers over the last few years. For the uninitiated, gqom draws on the darker side of electronic music, hip hop, soundsystem culture, kwaito, UK funky and deep tribal African vibrations. The results are stark, yet utterly mesmeric.

The Sound of Durban Vol.1 represents the first full length compilation collecting the sound of Durban’s suburbs and townships. Cruel Boyz’ “Umeqo Emagqomini (Dub Mix)” sweats potency from its every pore; comprised of afro-dance polyrhythms intent on forcing movement from your every limb. Cascading clave clicks form the main body, but its the support of the steady rolling, percussive beat and ominous drone underbelly that really pressure any listener to jerk and jive.

Catch it on double LP and digital (with four bonus tracks) via the Gqom Oh! label on 29th January 2016. Pre-order it here.