Sandy B, soFa elsewhere unveil politically charged album Forward in Reverse

The album addresses issues such as greed, racism, sexism, religious intolerance and homophobia, aiming to foster unity and social change. Both Sandy B and soFa elsewhere have criticised the current electronic music scene for a perceived absence of political discourse, noting that the genre has drifted from its original values.

The album combines Sandy B’s legacy in kwaito with soFa elsewhere’s experimental production to create a body of work described by the artists as “a statement of resistance”. The record was produced by soFa elsewhere, with all tracks co-composed by the two artists. It was mastered by Wouter Brandenburg and released through Afrosynth Records, distributed by Rush Hour.

The album artwork, designed by Cape Town-based digital illustrator Darren Christian, depicts Sandy B as a comic-book superhero navigating a futuristic Durban. The design aims to reflect the artist’s enduring influence and vitality, while emphasising his role as both a cultural icon and advocate for social change. Michael McGarry handled the album’s overall design.

Sandy B first gained prominence in the mid-1990s with underground hits such as Amajovi Jovi and Student Night, becoming Durban’s first notable kwaito artist. Despite many of his contemporaries retiring, Sandy B continues to perform internationally and collaborate with emerging artists.

Forward in Reverse represents an intersection of activism and music, aiming to engage listeners in reflection and dialogue while maintaining the energetic and rhythmic qualities that have defined Sandy B’s career.

Tracks on the album include:

• A1. Mangamanga – 4:57
• A2. Siren Work – 5:23
• A3. Khuluma Kakhulu – 4:28
• B1. Politicians – 5:31
• B2. Eat Promises – 2:41
• B3. Isosha Elidakiwe (Drunk Soldier) – 4:32
• B4. Mo-fucka – 2:16

Pre-order the record here.