Okzharp and Manthe Ribane are producer Okzharp, with celebrated vocalist, artist and dancer Manthe Ribane. They hail from South Africa, where Manthe still resides, although Okzharp lives in the London where he is a DJ and producer, initially cutting his teeth in LV, who were one of the first acts to sign to Hyperdub, scheduled for 6th July release.
The recording of their debut album Closer Apart reflects the title. It started on tour, in their audiovisual collaborator Chris Saunders (Paris Studio). Okzharp describes Manthe as a ‘co-producer, adding, ‘she selected instrumental sketches and we developed them together, sometimes just keeping the bare bones or a melody or rhythm, or trying different elements or sounds. In tandem.’ Chris worked with Manthe developing an umbilical visual identity, feeding back into the music, for the live show but also for the audio-visual elements of their work, which will come around the album.
Hear the first single ‘Dun’ by Okzharp & Ribane below –
On the whole, the album has a softness and openness that contrasts the tougher sound of the EPs. Manthe explains, ‘Alot of the new music is a 360 turn, It’s an expression of my “Lady” side, I grew up listening to Jazz, Classic and Gospel, I am a very soft spoken person, and it resonates with being confident with that. It’s been crazy finding balance and finding a smart way to strengthen my weaknesses, I had to trust the process.’ Of the songs she says ‘They are part of the world now, I hope everyone feels motivated and inspired to be more after listening to the album.’
Thank you so much for your patience.’
Closer Apart will be released worldwide via Hyperdub / via Black Major in South Africa
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