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Soundway Records has once again unearthed a treasure trove of South African musical gems from the 1980s with their latest compilation, “Gumba Fire: Bubblegum Soul & Synth-Boogie from 1980s South Africa.” Curated by Miles Cleret and DJ Okapi, this collection showcases the roots of Pantsula, Kwaito, and Gqom, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser from start to finish.
Described as “Bubblegum,” this local pop music emerged in black South Africa during the decline of the disco era, slowly evolving into a unique and lo-fi sound. The tracks featured on this compilation are characterized by stripped-down instrumentals, catchy synths, and infectious drum-machine beats. The soulful vocals and harmonies, a hallmark of South African music, add another layer of depth and emotion to the music.
Miles Cleret and DJ Okapi carefully handpicked 16 rare tracks that capture the essence of this transformative period in South African music history. This compilation bridges the gap between the American-influenced jazz, funk, and soul of the ’70s and the rise of Kwaito and house music in the ’90s. Similar to Soundway’s successful “Doing it In Lagos: Boogie, Pop & Disco in 1980s Nigeria” compilation, this album offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known genre that is gaining popularity among open-minded music enthusiasts worldwide.
One standout track on the album is Ashiko’s “Gumba Fire,” which also lends its name to the compilation. The term “Gumba Fire” originated from the booming speakers of the old spacegram radios that brought music to South Africa’s townships and villages. Over time, it evolved into a phrase used to describe a lively and energetic party atmosphere.
As the popularity of French-Caribbean Zouk and similar genres continues to soar, the inclusion of South African Bubblegum music in DJ sets around the world comes as no surprise. Soundway Records has once again provided a platform for these rare and captivating tracks to be enjoyed by a global audience. Whether it’s the infectious rhythm of Stimela’s “Mind Games,” the brimming energy of Joshiba’s “Gloria,” or the dreamy allure of Zasha’s “Arrow Dub,” “Gumba Fire” is a must-listen compilation for any music lover seeking to explore the vibrant sounds of 1980s South Africa.
