Kalushi recordings head-honcho Rob Toca steps up with the South African label’s third release of the year. Featuring the thought-provoking lyrics of the inimitable Lazarusman, “Moya Wami” is a dreamy deep tech house tune layered with atmospheric arpeggios and echoed synths on top of a driving, rhythmic bassline. As a master of musical journeys that touch the mind, body and soul, Toca’s knack for soul-churning tunes shines through as the song evolves into a blissful, introspective experience on the dancefloor.

The title, “Moya Wami”, is Zulu for “My Soul”, and is used as a term of endearment for Lazarus’ princess or “Ntokazi”. His vocals transform the original mix into a heartfelt expression of yearning for love—giving the track the ability to work on any dancefloor, as well as any beachside environment. A warm, soul-drenched tune for any season.

As the founder of Rise, a Berlin-based record label and party dedicated to African electronic music, Floyd Lavine provides a stripped-down remix of “Moya Wami”, steering the release into darker territory. Honing on the ominous elements of the original, the morphing synth chord plays across the soundscape, maintaining the emotion above the playful tech house bassline. Floyd’s “dubbier” approach allows the drums and vocals to take centre-stage, and the result is a raw, minimalistic interpretation of Rob Toca’s original.

Argentinian producer Jero Nougues brings his Chicago influence to create a more tech house influenced rework of the original. Geared more towards the dancefloor than the other mixes on the EP, Jero relies on the energized drum patterns and bouncy bassline to drive his mix. Borrowing the spacey arpeggio and morphed chords from the original, the remix maintains its cosmic blissfulness, making Jero’s remix supremely versatile for DJ use. A superb blend of deep, soul and tech elements closing off a fantastic release.