A Defining Chapter in LaTique’s Career
LaTique, the prolific DJ and producer affectionately dubbed Mr Rare Dub, steps into a new era with Winter Tone, an eight-track EP that masterfully blends Deep House and Afro-tech with a refined musical identity. Released at a pivotal moment in his journey, the project reveals a matured artist fully leaning into his signature sound with precision and intention.
From Estcourt Roots to Global Recognition
Hailing from Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, LaTique began his musical journey in 2012, drawing inspiration from his older brother and a passion for keys and production. Initially releasing music under the alias ‘Harmony’, he rebranded in 2017, unveiling the deeper, more sophisticated sonic persona that the industry now recognizes. His catalogue has since expanded through acclaimed labels such as Atjazz Record Company, House Afrika, and Stay True Sounds, alongside the growth of his own imprint, RVRE Recording Company.
A Sonic Tapestry of Afro-Tech and Deep House
Winter Tone is a cohesive body of work layered with emotion, rhythm, and innovation. It includes standout track Ixesha, a collaboration with Mdu aka TRP featuring Zimvo, that fuses tribal house, amapiano elements, and LaTique’s deep house roots into a powerful and contemporary offering. Zimvo’s stirring vocals and the percussive heartbeat of the track exemplify LaTique’s hybrid sonic vision.
Focus Tracks That Speak to the Soul
Two other EP highlights—Amber and Excuses—showcase the emotional range and sonic depth of LaTique’s production. Ethereal vocals, warm chord progressions, and atmospheric synths anchor both tracks. Excuses introduces a subtle log drum element, hinting at the ‘private school piano’ aesthetic without veering from LaTique’s core deep house sound. These songs serve as emotional cornerstones of the EP.
Notable Collaborations Add Texture and Soul
The project also brings in a stellar lineup of collaborators. Jonga Le features the smooth, expressive vocals of Sia Mzizi, while Let Go—produced alongside Mafia Natives—delivers a cinematic, groove-driven track that adds narrative weight to the EP. Each collaboration contributes to the layered storytelling that defines Winter Tone.
Building on the Momentum of ‘Hayi Baba’
Following the success of his 2024 hit Hayi Baba with Chronical Deep and Kabza De Small, Winter Tone cements LaTique’s status as one of the most innovative and consistent voices in South Africa’s electronic music scene. This EP is not just a seasonal release—it’s a statement of purpose.
A Rare Blend of Vision, Maturity, and Sound
With Winter Tone, LaTique affirms his place at the forefront of the genre—delivering an immersive sonic experience that feels both intimate and expansive. It’s rare, it’s refined, and it’s unmistakably LaTique.
