Atmos Blaq returns to Stay True Sounds with Shimova - a deep, crafted, textured instrumental that reaffirms his place as one of 3-step Afro's most expressive producers. Following standout contributions to the Stay True Sounds catalogue, including well-received Mfana Wase Dobsi and Kwa Mama, Shimova showcases the Soweto-born artist’s signature touch: dark stabs, punchy basslines, emotive strings, and synthwork that feels both atmospheric and floor-focused.

Known for crafting slow-burning sonic journeys, Atmos Blaq lets Shimova unfold patiently, each bar pulling you deeper into its hypnotic drum pulse. It’s a track built for transition moments: a mood-setter that doesn’t demand attention, it earns it. Drawing on his roots in AfroTech and 3-step, Shimova channels a hypnotic energy - neither peak-time nor background, but rather a liminal space that bridges soul and structure.

With support from the likes of Louis Vega, Gilles Peterson (Worldwide FM), and Benji B (BBC Radio 1), Jamz Supernova (BBC Radio 6), Atmos Blaq continues his evolution on Stay True Sounds, refining a sound that feels unmistakably his own. Shimova isn’t just a filler - it’s a foundation.

Shimova

Atmos Blaq - Shimova

Stay True Sounds Vol. 7 drops 29 August - another expertly curated compilation from label boss Kid Fonque, continuing his mission to document and showcase the label’s uncompromising vision; elevating the most exciting artists in South African electronic and house music.
Leading the rollout, Thabo Tonick delivers “Nika” - a slow-burn house heater layered in tension and flow - while Graham Deep makes his debut on the label with “Rabbit’s Foot”, a patient, atmospheric standout that’s already turning heads.

But the depth doesn’t stop there. Pando G comes through with “Analog Machines”, a raw, synth-heavy trip built on texture and grit. It’s one of the compilation’s most distinctive moments - unapologetically minimal, deeply musical. The kind of track that rewards repeat listens or gets dropped in a tech house set at 2am.

Another highlight is beatsbyhand’s “Aphotic Zone” - a haunting, immersive track that pushes deep house into darker waters. With its low-end weight and shadowy tone, it captures the late-night energy that defines the Stay True sound.

The full compilation features a tight, purposeful selection of producers shaping the next wave: Radic The Myth, Wapo Jije, Exte C, Freddy da Stupid, and more. New names and label regulars sit side by side, each track a standout in its own right.

No filler. No fluff. Just a sharp, honest representation of where South African house music is right now.

Stay True Sounds Vol. 7 isn’t just a label release - it’s a document of the culture.

Enjoy! 


04 beatsbyhand - Aphotic Zone

Trick Me

beatsbyhand x Sio - Trick Me (Extended)

Too Far

Surrender

07 Blackwhole - Plat Ft. Victoria

Nocturnal

Heavy Log Drums, Cheeky Energy: beatsbyhand – SAPS

Gqeberha-born producer beatsbyhand follows up his well-received single SARS with SAPS, released on Stay True Sounds. SARS earned DJ support from Rampa (Keinemusik), Damian Lazarus, Naomi Campbell, Jamiie, and South Africa’s own Dwson, making an impact within the international dance scene further establishing beatsbyhand as a consistent and accomplished producer.

SAPS continues the story, rooted in South African electronic music — alive with Gqom, Amapiano, and Afro-tech textures — weighty bass and sharp percussion drive the track.

With years of production experience and several successful releases on Stay True Sounds, beatsbyhand has refined a distinctive sound that blends local tradition with international resonance. SAPS builds on the momentum of SARS, delivering bass-heavy, vibrant, and unmistakably beatsbyhand music — crafted for heads, floors, and anyone who likes their music with weight and character.

Enjoy!

beatsbyhand - SAPS

Pando G & France Deep - St Luna (Original Mix)

Dwson - I Got U

Charles Webster & Thabo Tonick - Flame

Showcasing the very best in South African music, Kid Fonque’s seminal Stay True Sounds is committed to championing the genre’s rising stars as well as exposing the sonically captivating sound to new audiences.

Charles Webster & Thabo Tonick - Flame

Stay True Sounds

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