IKIGAI THE LAST SAMURAI is a 14-track, hour-and-a-half-long album that represents both a conclusion and a declaration for Tman Xpress. As the final chapter of his Ikigai series, the project is framed around the Japanese concept of Ikigai—the search for life’s purpose—while also drawing on the imagery of the samurai, symbolizing discipline, strength, and honor. This combination gives the album a layered identity, merging philosophy, resilience, and music into one narrative.
Tman Xpress, Scotts Maphuma, Mellow & Sleazy recently appeared on Uthini.
The soundscape reflects this vision with remarkable depth. Tman Xpress weaves between high-energy Amapiano rhythms built on rolling log drums and vibrant piano melodies, and slower, more introspective pieces that use atmospheric pads, haunting chords, and emotive vocal layers. The result is a project that is as dynamic as it is reflective—able to move a dancefloor while also encouraging listeners to sit with its themes of purpose, struggle, and endurance.
Collaboration is central to the album’s strength. Tman works with a wide range of artists, blending established voices with emerging talent to create tracks that feel communal yet distinctly his own. Each feature adds a different dimension—some bringing raw energy suited for the clubs, others offering soulful contributions that ground the album in emotional storytelling. This diversity keeps the project fresh across its long runtime while reinforcing its communal spirit.
ALBUM: Tman Xpress – IKIGAI THE LAST SAMURAI
ALBUM: Tman Xpress – IKIGAI THE LAST SAMURAI
Tman Xpress, ATK Musiq & Ndiba Ndibs – Izolo (feat. Mgababa)
Tman Xpress, ATK Musiq & Ntsakzin – Bona Baphi (feat. Lucio & Mpho Spizzy)
Tman Xpress, Seventie & Mpho Spizzy – Goz Goz (feat. Jazzxcape)
Tman Xpress, Jazzxcape & Rasca Djy – Mogodu Monday (feat. Mpho Spizzy, Macasset, Mcozet80 & Seventie)
Tman Xpress, Shaunmusiq, Ftears, Thatohatsi, Mellow & Sleazy – Umntwana Kaboban Lo
Tman Xpress, LeeMcKrazy, Mellow & Sleazy – Soshona Khona
Tman Xpress, Mellow & Sleazy – Umehluko
Tman Xpress, Scotts Maphuma, Mellow & Sleazy – Uthini
Tman Xpress, King P & Mr Nation Thingz – 21 Questions
Tman Xpress, Mgababa & Lowbass Diy – Ngizwe Feel
Tman Xpress & Lowbass Djy – Impi Eza Ngobuso
Tman Xpress, Lucio & Mpho Spizzy – Idamu
Tman Xpress, Shakes & Les – AMEN
Tman Xpress, TitoM & Yuppe – Life
