Starting 2025 Strong: Heineken House Lands in Jozi this Jan

Dec 6, 2024 | Lifestyle, Community

Heineken® is starting 2025 strong: on 25 Jan, they’re launching their home of culture and creativity, Heineken House. Set on the backdrop of one of South Africa’s most vibrant and culturally dynamic cities, this free event will host some of SA’s most-celebrated artists, performers, musicians, designers and creative dynamos. 

Picture this: Coachella, one of the world’s most prolific music and arts festivals, meets the explosive streets of Rio, but make it local. Heineken House has made appearances in Brazil and California already, so imagine how much more fun it could be on SA soil?! Closer to home, Heineken® House has already created a platform at Rocking the Daisies in 2023, amplifying DJs to an eclectic crowd but in 2025 it promises to be even more memorable. 

“Heineken® House – this is where we social, as we like to say – is going to be an entertaining experience enjoyed by individuals from all walks of life. We are ecstatic to partner and welcome Gunna to the line-up to bring Mzansi a once-in-a-lifetime show!” Says Marcel Swain, Head of Marketing: Premium at Heineken Beverages.

Their main stage is stacked with a line-up, all under one roof, that’s guaranteed to make your head turn and your body move. The night kicks off with the incredible Young Stunna, followed by friend of CEC Maglera Doe Boy with icon Dee Koala (side note: check out the music video she just dropped for ‘Medi Yase Khayelitsha’) and 25k, Morda, the crowd-shaking DBN Gogo and Akio.

And they’re not stopping there – a four-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated, multi-platinum, global superstar – Gunna is set to drop until midnight, ready to blow the roof off Heineken® House. For the uninitiated, Sergio Giavanni Kitchens (aka Gunna), is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He signed with Young Thug’s YSL Records, an imprint of 300 Entertainment in 2016, and rose to fame with his third mixtape, Drip Season 3. Gunna shared, “Coming back to South Africa feels like a homecoming! Y’all get ready for a show like no other, South Africa, we’re bringing a one of wun experience.” 

In addition to the main stage, they’ve also created the Face2Face (F2F) stage – an electrifying, DJ setup where DJs play face-to-face, side-by-side, and in sync. This isn’t your typical back-to-back – with each DJ on their own decks and mixers, they’re creating beats in real-time, keeping the vibe raw, intense, and interactive. Expect F2F sets from heavyweights like DJ Biza B2B Vigro Deep, Success with 032 Choppa, Ice Beats Slide B2B Sbuda Ma Leather and Shakes & Les B2B Mellow & Sleazy. The Face2Face stage brings the beat directly to you, so it feels like the DJ is spinning just for you – up close and personal, real talk.

As if there wasn’t enough to explore and experience, they’ve created a future-forward stage: ‘Freshest Finds’ where up-and-coming artists set the vibe with their lesser-known breakthrough beats. This is dope because it also gives support to artists on the rise and gives you an opportunity to discover beats you hadn’t heard before, right before they dominate playlists everywhere. Powered by data-driven insights, this stage is a gateway to the freshest talent shaping culture on the streets and across leading streaming platforms. From DJ, broadcaster and producer Just Gigi’s electrifying set to Royal MusiQ’s latest bangers (which you should stream here because it’s sick). This stage is like jumping the queue, staying ahead of the curve and experiencing the sounds defining tomorrow’s music scene.


Basically, Heineken House is where you come to let loose, vibe, and social – you’re stepping into a whole curated world, and it’s not just a sonic experience. From bold local fashion collabs to the wildest art displays, the heart of Jozi will be buzzing. Check out creative brands like Rosey & Vittori (a premium apparel label) and Jozi streetwear brand DENIMBYDOME, bringing Jozi’s style into the heart of the event.

Stay locked on Heineken® House’s socials and look out for in-store opportunities to get your pass. Can you think of a better way to start the year? It’s all about connection, culture, and creating memories – so here’s the invite: Step inside and celebrate good times in the new year with likeminded cultural fanatics in the city that loves it.

 

Visit Heineken’s website to keep up to date

Follow Heineken on Instagram to secure your ticket

 

For more news, visit the Connect Everything Collective homepage www.ceconline.co.za

Pantone Have Released Their Colour Of The Year

Dec 6, 2024 | News, Fashion

Pantone is a global authority on colour, best known for its Pantone Matching System (PMS), which standardises colour reproduction across industries such as fashion, design, and printing. Founded in 1963, the company revolutionised colour communication and consistency, providing a universal language that creatives and manufacturers use to ensure accuracy. Beyond its technical utility, Pantone has become a cultural authority, particularly through its annual Color of the Year announcement.

The Pantone Color of the Year is a reflection of emotions and aspirations within the cultural landscape. Selected by the Pantone Colour Institute, the choice is grounded in extensive research across design, art, technology, and social movements. The colour captures the mood of the moment and offers a taste of inspiration to industries worldwide.

Colour of the Year 2025, ‘Mocha Mousse’, via Pantone.com

Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025 has been announced as Mocha Mousse, which builds on the soft, ethereal tones of 2024’s Peach Fuzz while continuing the theme of edible inspiration. A rich, warm hue evocative of chocolate and coffee, Mocha Mousse resonates deeply with today’s complex world. The choice aligns with a global longing for comfort and stability amidst what Pantone refers to as a “permacrisis,” a state of ongoing uncertainty and turbulence. Brown is truly my favourite hue and tone, so to see it celebrate in all its earthy richness is exciting; and it speaks to something we discussed quite a bit in 2024 — namely, the growing overlap between fashion and food, and the way brands are harnessing food and taste to broaden intuitive associations between their offerings and our senses. 

As Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, explained “for Pantone Colour of the Year 2025, we look to a colour that reaches into our desire for comfort and wellness, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.” In an era in which people are seeking small moments of pleasure as antidotes to larger anxieties, this hue serves as a visual reminder of the soothing power of the shared experience. 

The Colour of the Year has far-reaching implications across multiple industries. For brands and consumers alike, it sets the tone for the products, designs, and campaigns that will dominate the year. As reported, 202 sees Pantone partnering with companies like Motorola (yes, flip phones are back, baby) and iconic stationery brand Post-It to integrate Mocha Mousse into their offerings, ensuring the colour’s visibility in daily life.

The choice of Mocha Mousse speaks to a broader pivot toward warmth and tactility. Earthy hues like this one echo our need to ground ourselves in the face of a fast-moving, unpredictable world and Mocha Mousse appears to be inviting us to pause, savour, and connect—perhaps as a symbol of how we can collectively seek to live in the years ahead? We’re very, very into it. 

For more news, visit the Connect Everything Collective homepage www.ceconline.co.za

Club Valley release their latest single ‘Wall Flower’

Dec 6, 2024 | New Release, Music

“You are the salt of the earth, a part of me will stay with you”

Surreal and dream-like, the latest offering from Jozi’s indie rock band Club Valley is rooted in expressing the realities of a world perceived.

WALL FLOWER, Club Valley’s latest release, is inspired by the spirit of becoming/coming of age and embracing the change that it brings. It’s a song about companionship and compassion…Compassion for ourselves and those we journey through life with.

CLUB VALLEY is the musical art project of Nigel Sibanda and Jason Williams. These two musicians have something to share about the world as they perceive it, writing songs that deeply resonate with that sentiment. Their style of music is dreamy and pop influenced, portraying love, triumph and everything in-between. The band’s sound borders on elements of rock and poetry, while their distinct sound has become known as “JOZIGAZE”.

 

Listen to WALL FLOWER here

 

Credits 

WALL FLOWER (Recorded at Bellville Studios)

Composed by: Nigel Sibanda & Jason Williams

Cover Photo by : Luca Bedford

Performed by: CLUB VALLEY

Recording Engineer: Theo Crous

Mix and Master Engineer: Theo Crous

 

Press release courtesy of the artists

Yan Solo releases ‘Between Two Worlds’ EP

Dec 6, 2024 | New Release, Music

Yan Solo’s “Between Two Worlds” EP is an immersive dive into his life’s duality, blending dark, driving rhythms with uplifting, melodic energy. “Nemesis explores the tension of inner conflict, while “Symbiosis” reflects the peace found in embracing change. Perfect for fans of melodic sounds, this EP delivers both intensity and harmony, capturing the constant dance between struggle and growth.

The track “Nemesis” channels the frustration and resistance of striving for more, embodying the darker side of ambition. It’s a powerful, driving track that pushes boundaries and captures the internal struggle of pursuing dreams against opposition. In contrast, “Symbiosis” offers a more harmonious sound, representing the peace of accepting change and working with life’s challenges. Lighter and more melodic, it speaks to the growth that emerges from struggle.

 

Listen to ‘Between Two Worlds’ here

 

Press release courtesy of Only Good Stuff

FiNE, Ed-Ward and Nomvula release ‘I Need You’

Dec 6, 2024 | New Release, Music

Ed-Ward, a unique and multifaceted artist from South Africa, showcases his experience and complexity in production through two stunning remixes of ‘I Need You’ by FiNE and Nomvula (SA). The ‘Wicked Remix’ has been designed for international audiences with an aggressive low end, clever percussion, and a highly dynamic rendition of the original, placing Nomvula’s beautiful vocals front and center.

The ‘Ed-Ward Remix’ pays homage to South Africa through traditional syncopated percussion, with playful melodic elements that capture the country’s rich cultural heritage. Ed-Ward seamlessly bridges tradition and modernity, delivering two beautiful records that will no doubt make waves internationally.

 

Listen to the original ‘I Need You’ here

Presave Ed-Ward ‘I Need You’ Remix here

 

Press release courtesy of Sippy Time

Fred und Luna (RIP) release ‘Future Sounds Of Kraut’ Vol 3

Dec 6, 2024 | New Release, Music

Presenting chapter 3 of ‘Future Sounds Of Kraut’, the successful compilation series on Compost Records. 14 modern kraut-electronic tracks (3 of them exclusive and previously unreleased) inspired by Kraftwerk, Can, Neu!, Cluster, Klaus Schulze and many more. Curated and compiled by label artist Fred und Luna (RIP).

It’s not at all easy to describe the term “Kraut” stylistically. Nevertheless, Compost Records and Fred und Luna embark on a journey through time to discover the different elements of German electronic music from the 1970s and 1980s and their impact on the more recent German and global music scene.

After the great success of Volumes 1 and 2, Vol. 3 follows on stylistically from its predecessor and – as this is one of the basic ideas of the series – gradually expands the musical spectrum with new krauty elements.

 

Rainer Buchmüller, aka Fred und Luna, sadly passed away in January 2024 after a long illness. He was a kind-hearted person, gifted artist, friend and companion. We mourn him deeply. A few days before his death, Rainer Buchmüller had sent us the track listing for Vol. 3 (and already ideas for Vol. 4), with the request to publish this posthumously, he would be very happy if his fans and all those who will be would receive a “sign of life” from him.

 

Listen to ‘Future Sounds of Kraut’ here

 

Press release courtesy of Only Good Stuff

Unpacking Rituals of Memorialising through dress with Fashion Accounts at Museum Africa

Dec 4, 2024 | Fashion, Community

On the 14th of November, I had the absolute privilege of representing CEC and attending a beautiful opening night of the Fashion Accounts, at Museum Africa in Newtown, Johannesburg. According to co-supporting institution the African Fashion Research Institute (AFRI), Fashion Accounts is: “a series of installations that explore and challenge the practices and rituals of collecting, archiving and memorialising through dress”.

Full disclosure, I almost jokingly tweeted before the opening that I was “Covering a VIP opening event for a magazine–momentarily back to my Carrie Bradshaw lifestyle lol” and this just really speaks to how well-supported this exhibition opening was by local industries and by global South African luxury designers such as Thebe Magugu, Wanda Lephoto (who was also a curator) & Sindiso Khumalo. Further commissions were also presented by The Sartists and Mimi Duma–all curated by the project trio of Wanda, Erica de Greef, and Alison Moloney.

I’d like to unpack the relevance of an exhibition of this nature; why does the venue and the concept of a “museum” even matter? 

It is no secret that albeit South Africa having risen as the “democratic phoenix” it is today – it has come at the expense of many prior to us and at a cost which has been shouldered by many of our predecessors. I liken our country to a phoenix specifically, as they are rare but powerful magical birds which possess the ability to burst into flames and be reborn from the ashes. And as a result of this unique trait–they can live to a very old age. Like the phoenix itself, South Africa has managed to revolutionise post-Apartheid into a rich multicultural nation governed by a great Constitution.

Imagery Courtesy of French Institute of South Africa

The Sartists portrait of Wanda Lephoto, 2024. Photography by Paul Shiakallis

From a range of beliefs surrounding Freedom and emancipation of the African content, emanating from the likes of Pan-African struggle heroes such as Steve Biko, Winnie & Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and many more, this has managed to filter through into a republic which now boasts twelve official languages only thirty years into its tenure of democracy. Famous ANC legend and Apartheid struggle veteran, Oliver Tambo, during the peak of Apartheid once said: “The fight for freedom must go on until it is won; until our country is free and happy and peaceful as part of the community of man, we cannot rest.”

This is where the importance of archiving kicks in, preserving our bespoke stories and authentic narratives within a culturally appropriate and non-insensitive way. A method we can achieve this through is unpacking rituals of memorialising through dress. As co-curator Wanda Lephoto says: “It is in the gaps, the absences, the fragments that we need to look to find ourselves when our stories are not acknowledged in the record.

Whilst I strolled throughout the event installations I pondered to myself, what defines a museum and what is its primary purpose? According to Britannica – “a museum is an institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the primary tangible evidence of humankind and the environment.” This is where I believe the true vitality of Fashion Accounts work lies – confronting what the contemporary meaning of a museum is for the average South African today. AFRI further mentions:

“Fashion Accounts documents the ongoing collaboration between South African fashion designer and artist Wanda Lephoto, London-based fashion curator and researcher Alison Moloney, and South African fashion curator and academic Dr Erica de Greef. Together, they confront the violent absence of black South African fashion histories within museum collections. They have worked closely with the museum’s existing display props and materials to make visible these tools, limitations and challenges.”

Learning more about the work of The Bernberg Costumes & Textiles Collection, which contributed a significant part of the museum collection (around 16 000 predominantly European, white-owned fashion objects, either imported into South Africa or locally made) and seeing the artefacts live in-person kind of felt like this weird double-edged sword – considering how dark our history is with colonialism as South Africa. These collected items span from the mid-1700s to the early 2000s, and included shoes, buttons, hats, ties, day and evening dresses, suits, wedding and mourning dresses, and more.

I think the dichotomy of emotions I felt at the exhibition whilst viewing these white-owned historical artefacts can be summated by the following quote by the Fashion Accounts team in the build-up to this historical event:

“The seemingly ‘innocent’ objects in the fashion collections are deeply problematic, embodying both moments of beauty and traces of trauma. These items reflect the colonial power structures that once served as tools of oppression, yet they also offer a means to surface Afrocentric memories and stories often left untold.”

Taking a closer look at the exhibition deliverables from the participants–the curators’ emphasis was clearly targeted towards showcasing innovative young black multidisciplinary creatives who are thriving within their respective artistic disciplines yet continuing to stay authentic to their roots as African-born Global entities. Sindiso Khumalo, a sustainable textile designer based in Cape Town, presented ‘The Jagger Collection’ as a homage to The University of Cape Town Jagger African studies Library that was caught in a mountain fire in April 2021. Sindiso showcased an illustration of Charlotte Maxeke, which was hand illustrated by artist Sinalo Ngcaba. Former LVMH Prize winner Thebe Magugu presented a mirage of custom TM items (such as Thebe Magugu couches) all emblazoned in varieties of their most-recent Heirloom Project pattern.

Tennis Series portrait of Tebogo Ribane, 2014. Photography by Andile Buka

Imagery Courtesy of French Institute of South Africa

South African natural hair stylist, Ncumisa Duma or “Mimi”, also presented an impressive body of work which stood its own ground within the museum exhibition. Some of my favourite work of the night though definitely belonged to The Sartists, as they revisited and relaunched a collaborative project from a decade ago in honour of Fashion Accounts. The Sartists mention:

“In 2014 The Sartists launched the collaborative project entitled The Sports Series, which re-enacts and reclaims black South African history that segregation, the apartheid regime, and the archives excluded. The performative act of self-portraiture with Wanda Lephoto, Andile Buka, Kabelo Kungwane, and Xzavier Zulu represented within the photographs and embodying this absent history reveals the hauntings of colonialism. Unseen work from this series will be on display, alongside a new commission to celebrate 10 years of this multidisciplinary collective.”

So the outcome of a successful event such as Fashion Accounts allows for more poignant discussions to filter into the larger room and for more conversations to be had surrounding the lack or absence of archiving for Black South African fashion histories within museum collections. Some may argue–should we want our authentic native stories told within such colonised spaces? Well to that I say: dismantling colonialism within the Museum space for oncoming South African generations speaks to the relevance of the work which Fashion Accounts is doing. Through the ongoing support of the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and The African Fashion Research Institute (AFRI), their goal can be audacious and the view long-term.

In closing I leave you with a quote from co-curator Erica de Greef: “There is an urgent need to decolonise museums, and their classification and representation practices. Fashion objects in museum collections offer powerful visual and material pathways for remembering more diverse South African histories, identities and subjectivities.”

 

Written by: Odwa Zamane

For more news, visit the Connect Everything Collective homepage www.ceconline.co.za

Oriiginelle Unveils New EP “Expensive Hunger”

Nov 29, 2024 | New Release, Music

After the success of her 2023 project “Metarmophofeels,” Oriiginelle (Makhosazana Thwala) has released her latest work, “Expensive Hunger.” Hailing from Mbabane, Eswatini, Oriiginelle continues to transcend.

“Expensive Hunger,” a 7-track EP, marks a significant collaboration with acclaimed producer Soduh Beats, further cementing their dynamic partnership. The anticipation for this release has been heightened by the drop of two lead singles: “Expensive Hunger” in April 2024 and “Change,” featuring Zulu Mecca, in June 2024.

This project signifies a new era for Oriiginelle, showcasing her evolution as an artist. Her lyrical prowess, ambition, and versatility are on full display as she seamlessly transitions between boom bap, sangfroid, and soulful melodies. 

What sets “Expensive Hunger” apart from “Metarmophofeels” is its more mature and meaningful approach to music. This is evident in the beat selection, production quality, feature choices, and song structure. The project weaves a compelling storyline where Oriiginelle delves into the growing pains of a young LGBTQ woman in pursuit of her dreams. Moreover, Oriiginelle is incredibly limber in her approach to music, effortlessly moving from soulful to boom bap, and beyond.

At its core, “Expensive Hunger” is a profound narrative that encapsulates the sacrifices and challenges inherent in the pursuit of one’s dreams and purpose, particularly as a young creative from the Kingdom of Eswatini. Oriiginelle’s raw and unfiltered storytelling conveys the complexities of losing platonic and romantic relationships, grappling with grief, and reaffirming the worth of her dreams amid adversity. All these themes are masterfully woven into the project’s production by Soduh Beats, which is  characterized by gritty and raw drums creating a textured backdrop for Oriiginelle’s verses. 

“Expensive Hunger” promises to be a musical and emotional tour de force, offering listeners a deeply personal and resonant journey through Oriiginelle’s artistic and existential experiences. The EP is set to release on the 24th of July , inviting audiences to witness her continued ascent and the compelling stories she has to tell.

 

Listen to “Expensive Hunger” here

 

Press release courtesy of Escopia, written by Milliswa Vilane 

Cosmo Klein & the Campers Release their Soul Fiction Remixed Full Album

Nov 29, 2024 | New Release, Music

Following the release of album ‘Soul Fiction’ in May 2023, Germany’s Cosmo Klein & The Campers issue a remix album, put together by Berlin based DJ Daniel W. Remixers include DJ Friction, Moods, Philippa, Opolopo and Art of Tones among others.

Being a huge fan of camping vans, Cosmo recorded some of the best Jazz musicians in the game like Cory Wong from Vulfpeck, Benny Greb, Hanno Busch, Claus Fischer, Peter Weniger, Jakob Manz, Felix Lehrmann, Jost Nickel and yes, many more in his 1988 Hymer Camper Studio.

 

“I just don ́t like studios. As a child I always wanted to play outside and I guess it ́s still the same way. I just can ́t stand to sit in front of a computer and go to the same workspace everyday. I can ́t see anything inspirational about that. Recording musicians in different sceneries all around Germany was beautiful and the fact that I stick to the same instrumentation on every track glues the pieces together. It was a great journey and I learned so much, working with these great cats.” says Cosmo Klein.

 

Listen to Soul Fiction Album here

 

Press release courtesy of Only Good Stuff

Küf Knotz & Christine Elise release ‘Yü / Cascade’

Nov 29, 2024 | New Release, Music

Rapper Küf Knotz & harpist Christine Elise unveil ‘Yü’ and ‘Cascade’, presented as the first double single taken from their forthcoming, self-released, 4th album ‘Grow’, which is due for release in March 2025.

Stepping into the vibrant world of the 90s, “Yü” is a nostalgic dance tune with a groove-heavy production that invites you to hit the dancefloor, reminiscent of the new jack swing era. This hip hop-inspired track serves as a mantra for self-empowerment, inviting listeners to embrace their individuality and celebrate their unique paths, fully leaning into one’s true self. The track features a captivating verse from Philadelphia MC/ Songwriter, Boogieman Dela, whose soulful delivery is laced with wit and charisma, taking the vibe to new heights. This collaboration results in a powerful, fun track that is not only a celebration of self-love but also a throwback to an era that defined dance music. 

On the B-side, we dive into the soothing sound odyssey of “Cascade”. This track brings the listeners on an instrumental journey of resilience. The delicate harp melodies glisten above a warm, encompassing baseline, weaving a tapestry of sound that elevates the spirit. Kuf Knotz and Christine Elise’s vocals embody a serene reminder to embrace life’s journey. With each note, the production expresses the ebb and flow of perseverance, encouraging listeners to keep moving forward, even in the face of challenges. The harmonious blend of instruments paints a vivid picture of resilience, encouraging us to continue moving forward through the obstacles of life.

Named Philadelphia Magazine Best Rapper of 2022 and 1 of 10 New Jersey Artists, Küf Knotz (Producer/MC) and Christine Elise (Harpist/Vocalist) have brought their unique blend of hip-hop, soul and classical traditions to various communities. The unlikely pair connected and built a similar bond to creating positive, forward thinking music fusing hip-hop with the boom bap era and lo-fi inspired beats supported by the harp. 

 

Listen to ‘Yü / Cascade’ here

 

Press release courtesy of Only Good Stuff