Big tune from Cameroonian outfit, ESA, originally released on an LP in 1986. For the first time ‘A Muto’ by Esa is given an official reissue. Not only does this mark a first as a stand along single, but the reissue contains previously unheard Instrumental, Dub and Keys Versions alongside an Acapella.
AWEH is back to present Shukuma, the highly anticipated collaboration between label head Esa and South African Kwaito legend Kamazu from Soweto. This record, created between 2020 and 2022, is a testament to the power of musical synergy and South African cultural aweh-ness. “Shukuma” transcends being a mere EP; it invites listeners on an journey that celebrates the profound talents of Esa, Kamazu, and the creative minds that contributed to its realisation. Through the fusion of traditional Kwaito elements and contemporary influences, this release truly showcases the artistry behind the music. In an era dominated by recording reissues, “Shukuma” emerges as a standout, embodying the fusion of artistic expression and cultural exploration.
Heavy South African cut, unearthed by Dene from La Casa Tropical. The origins of Amajika is a tale of two worlds colliding at the perfect moment and begin in KwaMushu Township outside Durban. Here would be where a young Tu Nokwe would set up a school to help teach other aspiring youngsters like herself in music, dance and acting. This would become known as the Amajika Youth and Children’s Art Project and would be run from the Nokwe home, a common hangout for artists at the time. Some boast 2000+ pupils going through this program while others claim it wasn’t more than a backyard dance group, but for the lucky group of kids that were members in the mid 80s it would be their chance at stardom. Fast forward 30 years from the original release to a smokey club where ESA hears Got My Magic Working played by Rush Hours Store’s own Bonnefooi. Instantly he inquires about the track from his homeland and feels it a perfect addition the repertoire of the Afro Synth band he is quietly cooking up. Here you have compiled the two title tracks from original Amajika singles along with the instrumental version by ESA’s Afro Synth Band.
Esa returns with the final instalment for this Highlife World Series which included previous releases Cuba and Kenya. Having been invited to attend the East Africa music conference DoaDoa in Jinja, Uganda back in 2014 and again in 2015, Esa shares the sounds of a new breed of talent and ideas emerging from East Africa and beyond, showcases music not only from Uganda but artist from Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya and South Africa who all attended the conference.
Next up in the Highlife World Series, we take a trip to Kenya where our man Esa plays the role of producer for the first time; with super talented local musicians – Sarabi and Makadem (aka the Fela of Kenya). Instantly timeless on both sides, see for yourself..
Drummer, producer and DJ, Esa Williams aka Mervin Granger has been a resident at Glasgow’s Sub Club for over half a decade, as well as releasing as Mervin Granger and Esa. Esa’s 12” on Burek spans the emotions upon returning to his native South Africa and the trials of becoming acquainted with his new home of Glasgow. Alongside Esa’s original cuts we also have a superb remix from Edinburgh’s Fudge Fingas. The remix encapsulates both of the original tracks and adds FF’s own distinctive slant to them to finish an EP that we are most proud to present.
The Hipodrome Of Music 