Leverage’s Ithemba Lamavukane unfolds the dreams and nightmares of the urban nguni
With the release of their latest album, Ithemba Lamavukane: Dreams and Nightmares of the Urban Nguni Foretold, twin duo Leverage has set a high bar, presenting a two-fold audio experience that delves into the “trials and tribulations that come with forging a path to live your truth daily and the rewards that come with.”
They revealed to Bars n Rhymes Magazine that the project offers an authentic look at their journey, exploring the intense highs and lows of a life dedicated to art and self-discovery. Drawing from a personal journey marked by resilience and introspection, the album is an attestation to the duo’s growth, both musically and personally.
Leverage’s creative process was, as they put it, “rigorous.” The project took shape from a massive selection pool, with over 100 songs crafted over the years.
“Never have we been this particular about content and song selection. We curated four different versions using the final 40 songs and picked the one which sounded the most cohesive,” they shared. This meticulous selection has shaped the album into a focused, thematic exploration of Leverage’s evolution, bridging the gap between modernity and their cultural heritage (Isintu).
With their roots firmly planted, they navigate today’s world while staying connected to traditional practices, a theme embodied in their music.
Production and Sound – mastering the balance between live instruments and hip-hop rhythms
Snevo Mabuza, their primary producer, spearheaded the album’s arrangement with a careful touch, ensuring every track supported the project’s journey. From guitar riffs to bass lines, Mabuza infused live elements that amplify the production’s impact.
“We outsourced an acoustic, bass, and lead guitarist to come in and enhance the production,” Leverage explained, adding another layer of texture to their Hip-Hop foundation. Embracing live elements wasn’t just a sonic choice but a nod to the storytelling essence of hip-hop. The duo emphasised, “We tapped back into the fundamentals of hip-hop and rapped on most records,” a response to fans’ request for more lyricism.
At the heart of this release is Abukhulelwa, a song that stands out not only for its musical depth but also for its personal significance. Leverage describes it as “a reminder that no matter where we go, we know what is expected of us at home.”
The single confronts social challenges like i-black tax, highlighting the duo’s dedication to family, responsibility, and heritage.
As artists, Leverage believes their work is to stay grounded in these values, which resonate deeply with their audience navigating similar societal pressures.
What’s next for them, “We are definitely on a run this whole 4th quarter and so we are gearing up to drop visuals off the tape and a media run is already in place. In addition, we are already working on a deluxe version for the project that should drop in the 1st quarter of 2025.”
They remain a unique voice in the South African music landscape, setting themselves apart by weaving their heritage into contemporary sounds that resonate far beyond borders. Their latest project captures the complexity of staying true to one’s roots while evolving, both as artists and individuals—a journey they’re ready to share with the world.
Stream the album here.
listening to amazing peace offering, hearing relating i’m to many of these songs. it really brings ukujabula nokuzichenya kuthi there’s still people who write from the heart and share the experience with us.