Gqom duo The Incredibles hosted a listening session in Johannesburg for their six-track EP Through The Fire, presenting a project that aims to extend the genre’s boundaries.
In a dimly lit studio, members Tyson and Adam played the EP and discussed their creative approach.
“We wanted to create the gqom we felt was missing,” they said.
The project positions itself between the raw, uncompromising energy of gqom’s KwaZulu-Natal roots and a more commercially accessible sound. It incorporates melodic elements and fuller vocal arrangements, moving beyond the stripped-back minimalism of the genre’s early form.
Guest vocalists TDK Macassette and Anele Zondo add a stronger vocal presence, while Jaye Swae delivers an energetic, unconventional rap performance over Bacardi-infused gqom production. The previously released single “Available” features Ch’cco and TDK Macassette.
The production is polished but retains a gritty undercurrent, preserving the urgency that defines gqom. The duo are also developing a broader creative ecosystem around the EP, including merchandise and plans for future events.