Joburg-based metal quartet Lefokolodi have grown their audience not through streams or social media, but with an intense and captivating live show. It’s old-school, and the results are tangible. Their fans are loyal to the core, and now, on their long-awaited debut EP, we are finally given a glimpse of what they sound like in the studio.
Formed by accident (as alleged by the boys), Lefokolodi’s inception was impromptu but fortuitous. The band now comprises vocalist Lerato Sekonya, guitarist Shinesh Ramballi, drummer Yakean Van Vuuren and bassist Sidney Weyers.
Their early singles—entirely DIY efforts—helped them garner attention. But those rough beginnings taught them valuable lessons, culminating in a far more polished debut.
Produced by local icon Evert Snyman, the project explores a range of genres and themes. The band shares, “Some of our songs talk about important topics such as mental health, body positivity, having fun with rapping, and finding a group of people you can connect with on a deeper level.”
They maintain their distinct sound on tracks like “Butt Hurt”, where their identity feels clearest. However, elsewhere, sharp genre shifts can feel disorienting. On closing tracks “Za za” and “8 tit bitties” they dive into sludgier, funk-infused territory, sounding at times like an entirely different band.
But it’s not entirely a misstep. In fact, those tracks reveal new layers to their potential. Still, at first glance, it can feel like too much, too quickly.
Fortunately, the grit that’s always been present in their sound remains, now sharpened by refined production. Lerato’s well-timed fusion of rap and screaming really shines on “Snake Dick”, while Evert Snyman’s vocal features add another more weighty dimension to the four-piece’s sound.
“Working with Evert was a big deal,” they tell me. “He pushed us to the limits of what we can do musically and technically. As well as being a wonderful human being, he helped shape our EP into what it is today.”
Lefokolodi have certainly found their voice, sharpened their sound, and proven that they belong in the conversation. The journey from accident to intention is complete. In Lerato’s own words, “Cava Lefokolodi!”
