Shimza - Eminence [Cadenza]

Shimza, one of South Africa’s greatest talents, returns to Cadenza with “Eminence,” a fiery fusion of deep percussion and enveloping midnight synths. Born in Gauteng, this artist is one of the most renowned African electronic musicians, having earned fame as the “Effect Master” and “Vinyl Assassin” for his technical prowess and ability to perform complex mixes.

The vibrant drums and lingering arpeggios of “Eminence” form a hypnotic peak-time anthem, evoking the nostalgic essence of late-nineties Detroit splendor. As the EP progresses to “Dancefloor Keeper,” the trance-inspired stabs and an enveloping bassline reveal its ominous nature, building to a colossal seismic drop. On the B-side, Shimza unleashes his creativity with “Kunye,” a hypnotic track that combines the spirit of futuristic synthwave with the soul of African tribalism.

“Warrant For Arrest” is an energetic track driven by a dry, compressed kick drum and resonant sequences. As the percussive forces fade into the second break, a monstrous siren and dark vocal snippets take center stage, leading the track to its climax. The penultimate piece, “MSC,” is an euphoric gem that flows between expressive phrases and constantly evolving synth pads. The digital bonus track, “Mirrors,” glides with a funky riff, maintaining an electric rhythm that closes the EP with strength and determination.

Shimza has set out to make 2019 the most important year of his career. Since launching his One Man Show concept in Soweto in 2009, with the purpose of raising funds for disadvantaged children, the project has grown into an annual event that brings together over 25,000 people, featuring some of the country's most prominent artists, such as AKA, Black Coffee, and Black Motion. The show has had international editions in France, Spain, and Portugal, cementing Shimza's status as one of South Africa's greatest musical figures.

After catching the attention of Rumors label boss Guy Gerber, Shimza debuted in Ibiza in 2016 during the Destino closing party, sharing the stage with Luciano, and returned to the iconic White Isle stage four more times. In recent years, he has delivered powerful performances at RESISTANCE Cape Town and Boiler Room Johannesburg, expanding his pioneering sound to global audiences in New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Manchester. After receiving great acclaim for his first release on Cadenza Records in 2017 with “Ascendent,” his triumphant return with “Eminence” reaffirms his extraordinary production skills, preparing his followers for a summer full of new music and inspiring performances.