Universal Gqom II EP is a powerful and energetic collaboration between Deejay Zebra SA and Pro-Tee, showcasing the raw intensity and distinctive sound of Gqom music. Gqom, known for its minimalistic and hard-hitting beats, originates from the townships of Durban, South Africa, and this EP takes the genre to new heights by infusing it with creative production techniques and innovative sounds that push the boundaries of the genre.
The EP is a sonic journey that highlights both producers’ strengths, delivering high-energy tracks that are designed to light up the dancefloor. From the get-go, Deejay Zebra SA and Pro-Tee create a pulsating, bass-driven environment, setting the tone for the entire project. Gqom’s signature elements—heavy, syncopated beats, deep basslines, and repetitive, hypnotic rhythms—are at the forefront of this EP, with each track offering its unique take on these core elements.
The use of sharp, driving drum patterns combined with atmospheric synths creates a dark, immersive vibe that is both intense and exhilarating. The tracks are characterized by minimalistic production with a focus on rhythm, but they also incorporate layered synths and occasional vocal chops that add texture and depth to the compositions.
Deejay Zebra SA and Pro Tee recently appeared on Ebsuku featuring Bello No Gallo, Niseni and Khumz.
Pro-Tee, known for his ability to remix and rework classic tracks into hard-hitting Gqom anthems, brings that same energy to the EP. His production techniques are evident in the polished, punchy sound that gives each track a professional and cohesive feel. The basslines are relentless and thumping, providing a foundation for the other elements to build on, while Zebra SA’s influence is seen in the creative arrangement of the beats and the hypnotic flow that each song possesses.
This build-up is one of the hallmarks of Gqom, where the minimalistic approach gives way to a powerful drop, releasing the energy that’s been accumulating throughout the track.
Despite its minimalism, the EP is not without variety. Deejay Zebra SA and Pro-Tee manage to keep each track fresh by experimenting with different tempos, soundscapes, and rhythmic patterns, making the project feel cohesive yet diverse. The use of eerie sound effects, vocal snippets, and deep basslines helps to create a futuristic, almost otherworldly atmosphere, which is a testament to the duo’s innovation within the Gqom genre.
Deejay Zebra SA and Pro-Tee deliver a project that stays true to the roots of the genre while also pushing it forward, creating tracks that are perfect for the dancefloor but also showcase the producers’ technical skills and creativity. For fans of Gqom and hard-hitting electronic music, this EP is a must-listen, offering a dark, rhythmic journey through one of South Africa’s most impactful genres.
Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – Universal Gqom II EP
Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – Universal Gqom II EP
1. Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – All in One
2. Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – Amsterdam
3. Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – Lost in Time
4. Deejay Zebra SA & Pro-Tee – Generator
