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The Mapungubwe Hotel in Johannesburg became a healing zone on Wednesday evening as Anatii, favourably known as the Electronic Bushman, hosted an exclusive listening session - in partnership with Courvoisier - of his second solo album titled Iyeza.
The Vault, the room where the event took place, was filled with many of Anatii’s (real name Anathi Mnyango) loved ones, who he often referenced as his “day ones”.
Some travelled all the way from his home town in the Eastern Cape, as well as from KwaZulu-Natal, to show their support for his new album.
Anatii revealed that he did not work with any other artist for this album apart from the man who inspired his album cover, Art Eye Gallery painter Nika Mtwana, who created the cover for his album.
The artwork was also revealed at the album launch to an emotional audience, which also left Mtwana in tears because of the opportunity Anatii had given him.
“I feel that we don’t appreciate our counterparts in the arts. I was super inspired when I saw Nika’s work.
"We met when I was shooting my UN public service announcement and I knew that we needed to do something together,” Anatii shared.
“I want him to make money for as long as possible, so much so that his children and his children’s children can benefit. So he won’t just be paid for the artwork but Nika will be earning royalties from the sales of Iyeza too, one of the first fine artists to do so in local showbiz,” he told City Press.
The album begins with a song titled Wena, followed by Ngozi and Ehlathini, which received favourable feedback from the guests.
U’sangthanda na? added a twist to this album’s sound as it borrows from mbaqanga sensibilities, showing just how versatile and diverse the Electronic Bushman’s talents and influences are.
Thixo Onofefe, which Anatii released earlier this year, proved to be the highlight of the evening as The Vault erupted into a wild sing-along, head bobbing experience. The mood was infectious.
The album is spiritual and therapeutic in sound and references a lot of his ethnic background while also paying homage to his culture and upbringing.
“I had to dig deep and connect with my people. I went to Durban, Eastern Cape and Los Angeles for inspiration,” Anatii mused.
Throughout the night guests were treated to an abundance of drinks and delectable food.
As the evening drew to a close a grateful Anatii thanked his guests for honouring the invite and the reception they showed towards his new project.
“Thank you for coming out tonight. Everyone I worked with was amazing. I’m proud of this album, it will do wonders.”
The album is expected to be available on all digital platforms on Friday October 5.
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