Review: Arrumar - Matsena LP (Ostowana)

When it comes to artwork, you know what they are about 'covers' and however cheeky a meerkat looks in silhouette, the simple truth is that this is 'the' Ostowana release you need as the summer fades away. 

Here's something that's awesome in many ways as a full nine tracks expand (most are in the 7-9 minute duraton) which includes a Indo-downtempo dub track 'Matsena' featuring Henrikraabe. 

And how can 'Africa Dzonga' sound so sunset sizzling with 'Naturalist' being No. 1 on the David Attenborough Autumn Chart.

Anyone watching the latest series of Alone in South Africa's Great Karoo Desert know will know how difficult it is to survive, but what Arrumar has managed to produce as a debut album that sits on the Afro-House vs. electronic escarpment of his home village of Bushbuckridge/Mapulaneng.

Did I say this is stunning?  A fantastic mix of modern and traditional that'll make sure this isn't the last time you'll hear Arrumar.

Artist: Arrumar

Title: Matsena LP 

Release date: 26th September, 2025

Label: Ostowana

Catalog Number: OST134

Format: Digital

Review: Arrumar - Handwork EP (Ostowana)

Dubbed out Indo-House fusion, you've got it with Arrumar's handywork on a new EP out on Ostowana.

A bit different for the label as Arrumar's Balearic is closer to the Goa shoreline on the eight minute lead track, 'Matsena' with Henrikraabe.

Like I say, somewhat different to their last release, Mzala Wa Afrika's 'Resurrection EP' (see review HERE) but then 'Africa Dzonga' really does give it the full Afro-House Serengeti treatment.

Two huge tunes that'll get everyone excited about the forthcoming album which reflects on Arrumar's village life; what a night club of a village that must be! 

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Artist:  Arrumar  

Title: Handwork EP, 

Release date: 16th August, 2024

Label: Ostowana

Catalog Number: OST068

Format: Digital