Following the underground success of their self- funded debut album, Queernomics, the newly monikered S’BO GYRE has broken into the mainstream music arena with his latest offering – Altar Call.
The multi-talented pop-rapper’s sophomore project is the first in a trilogy thematically based on hearing, heeding, and embodying a calling. It’s seamlessly knit by a tale of the challenges and courage needed when one hears the calling.
With foundational production from hip hop producers LTO and Trinity Beatz as well as soul-funk & lofi producer Yolophonik, the production and project is embellished and musically directed by Amapiano, Gqom and African electronic dance maestro, SiyaCee of Audio Addicts.
“I drew inspiration from Sankamota (Dreams Come True), AKA (Touch My Blood) and Kabelo (The Bouga Luv Album) from a sonic and spiritual direction,” he explains. “I have always wanted to make a project that illustrates the range of my musicality and I’m certain this does.”
With rap, singing and live instrumental performances by S’BO GYRE and featured artists, Altar Call is an enmeshment of cultural, musical, and societal influences.
To add to S’BO GYRE’s witty bars and punchlines, featured artists include Dali Danger, Brassy Sounds, Cheryl Zondi, Tim Welsh of Goodluck, LTO and Namakau Star.
In the words of former Sunday Times Lifestyle, Careers and Tagged Online editor, Pearl Boshomane, Altar Call is “short but punchy,” and “stylishly fuses various subgenres – such as Amapiano, rap and pop – to create a sound that’s undeniably GYRE’s.”
Boshomane goes on to say, “it’s a memorable project that gets better with each listen.”
Set to be released under the record level branch of S’BO GYRE’s creative agency, KwaSthenjwa – the project is executively co-produced by the hitmaker, SiyaCee and A&R, Boitumelo Malatji. With distribution by Paradise Sound System, this marks the second project that is self-funded by the independent musician.
“Altar Call’s greatest strength is its cross-cultural and cross-generational appeal,” S’BO GYRE affirms. “There is genuinely something there for everyone.”
Altar Call is available on all streaming platforms with its sister projects (Alter Call & Alpha Call) both slated for a 2024 release as well.
