SA: Steve Umculo releases debut album Elements

Renowned for his genre-defying sound and electrifying live performances, Umculo combines Afro-based rhythms with folk melodies, creating an emotive and captivating sonic experience that has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Elements represents the pinnacle of Umculo’s artistic journey, showcasing 12 carefully curated tracks that celebrate the physical elements of our planet, the emotional elements that connect us, and the musical elements that have shaped his unique sound.

With five years in the making, this album is a testament to Umculo’s relentless passion and dedication. From the live acoustic series The Look Up Sessions, which allowed fans to help shape the album, to the crowdfunding campaign that revived the project post-pandemic, Elements is as much a creation of his global fanbase as it is his own.

A seasoned performer, Umculo has graced stages across South Africa, the US, and Europe, including appearances at Festival de les Arts and Splashy Fen. He has collaborated with notable artists such as Stelth Ulvang of The Lumineers, Casey Lowry, and the Soweto Gospel Choir, who contributed their iconic harmonies to three tracks on Elements. His sophomore EP, Fall From Grace, produced hits like ‘Your Eyes Through Mine’, which topped 5Fm’s indie chart and earned international accolades.

“Elements is a celebration of the physical elements that make up this earth, the emotional elements that make us human, and the musical elements that have influenced my journey so far,” Umculo said. 

Steve Umculo’s live performances have captivated millions online, with over 10 million views on social media. His one-man-band style, featuring a loop station and stand-up drum kit, has made him a mainstay at major festivals, where he leaves audiences in awe with his dynamic energy and creativity.

With the release finally here, fans can look forward to an album that not only encapsulates Steve Umculo’s unique artistry but also reflects the resilience and unity of his supporters. Elements promises to be a sonic journey like no other, bringing listeners closer to the core of what makes us human and the world we inhabit.