In an impressive display of artistic expression, South African singer-songwriter Elias Hlogolane Shitlhangu, popularly known as Caltonic SA drops his third EP in just six months, maintaining his position as a talented and innovative force to behold.

Remarkably, he has explored different genres in his various projects, showcasing versatility and range. From Amapiano to Barcadi to Afrohouse, he has mastered multiple styles, with each project building upon the last.

The ‘Ancestral," released on October 4, is a 22-minute, 4-track Afrohouse project that pays homage to the ancestral Afrohouse style while injecting new flavors.

The EP starts with the track 3 Step Way, a dancefloor-driven intro that shies away from the conventional 4/4 kick style, taking on a three-kick beat that sets the tone for the rest of the project. The self-produced track focuses on percussion, featuring African instruments and an explosive log drum sequence that is hard to miss. The absence of vocals allows fans and listeners to experience the sonic landscape fully.

Coming in second is Thando. This track introduces the vocals of B33Kay SA, a Nongoma-born KwaZulu-Natal artist. The Amapiano influence is quite obvious, elevating the general feel of the track and adding another layer of depth to the EP. The vocal performance is quite impressive.

The third track, We All Connected, takes the baton from its predecessor and continues the run. Here, we see the introduction of new chord progressions, new vocal artists, and more impressive vocals, an introduction that is both innovative and enticing.

The way the tracks build upon each other, introducing new flavors, styles, and textures, demonstrates Caltonic SA’s skill as a composer and producer.

The last track, Ancestral, brings the EP to a stunning conclusion, incorporating the same energetic and percussive elements that have been the bedrock of the project. The return of the explosive log drums, the introduction of a flute sequence, and chord progressions create a feel-good mood that is hard to shake off. The final track shares the same title as the project, which serves as a reminder of the EP’s idea and overall theme.

Beyond aligning with the hypothetical narrative of Caltonic SA’s recent discography, Ancestral has demonstrated that he is a master across multiple genres and a master of cohesion. He has proven himself a talent to behold, effortlessly delivering masterpieces in different music styles and soundscapes.

Performers: Caltonic SA, B33Kay SA, Untouchable MasterZA, Djy Vino, Mazah.

Songwriters: Elias Hlogolane Shitlhangu, Bhekisisa Thabiso Mshibe, Djy Vino, Silindile Nosipho Mkhize.

Producers: Elias Hlogolane Shitlhangu, Gladstone Thabiso Mabidikam.

The album cover for the 4-track EP by South African artist, Caltonic SA.

Caltonic SA: ANCESTRAL - EP Review

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