Focalistic – Ghetto Gospel
Since releasing his debut album in 2020 (and a slew of EPs and singles in between), Focalistic has been an omnipresent figurehead in amapiano. His unhurried flow—delivered in sipitori over blaring log drums—has become a fixture on dance floors and music charts across the length and breadth of the continent. On Ghetto Gospel, he occasionally eschews the dance-floor fillers to introspect about life, love, and how possessing the trappings of success doesn’t necessarily define him. “Dipuo,” featuring Sjava and Herc Cut the Lights, moves at a leisurely pace and sees him discussing the slander that’s come with his success. “Harda” is an equally languid number featuring Mafikeng rapper Tshego. Production duo Mellow & Sleazy also make appearances throughout the album—lending their Bacardi sound to songs such as “Fire” and “Sjepa.”