There is little doubt that South Africa is one of the most exciting musical hubs in the world today, and who better as its ambassador than the inimitable Spoek Mathambo. With five solo albums under his belt (not to mention his collaborative projects Fantasma and Batuk), and a documentary on SA electronic music, Spoek Mathambo is a true music activist, showcasing and stretching the limits of electronic music and hip hop. On his new album Mzansi Beat Code, he pushes it one step further, abandoning vocals to focus on production, creating a sophisticated yet densely woven landscape which mixes various South African house schools (Bacardi, iGqomu, Sghubu), Classical House, Techno, Rap and folk music Kwazulu Maskandi. 25 years after the end of apartheid, one still can’t say South Africa is in an enviable position. There have been a myriad of forces, both foreign and local, in the past that sought to stifle South African culture. But it is a people of resilience and tenacity. As it is said at the beginning of the track "Black Rose", a tribute to Chicago house with which so many South Africans grew up: "Everyday that you exist in your body without apologising is activism”. "Mzansi Beat Code, is also Spoek's tribute to all past, present and future South African musicians for the strength they give it. South African culture is alive, and brimming with more energy than ever. Spread the word.