Anacy – Khulula (2026)
Continuing on a steady upward trajectory with her distinctive Afropop sound, singer-songwriter Anacy offers audiences zest and a real “oomph” in cinematic, atmospheric soundscapes. Hailing from Cape Town, South Africa, Anacy not only brings you a punch of music, but also celebrates all those emotions that make up human experiences. From hopeful resilience to fragile melancholy, intricate serenity to reckless rambunctiousness, her melodies are evocative and inspiring. We first came Anacy with her single, ‘It’s Not You’, and, since then, she has turned heads internationally with several 2026 releases. The latest addition to her discography is the single, ‘Khulula’.
Following her single ‘Good Luck To Her’, ‘Khulula’ retains the cinematic ambience of ‘Good Luck To Her’, yet adds ethereal obscurity to the sonic package. Produced by Mpho Mantyi, the track is like viewing a glistening sonic river – shiny and beautiful but hiding tumultuous emotions beneath the glassy surface. On one hand, a wash of wistfulness breathes brushing your face from your hair and leaving a sense of refreshing relief. On the other hand, the glittering melody holds an eeriness caught in a web of emotion and delicately executed with Anacy’s siren-like vocals.
From the soothing synthesisers, to the drums and bass, with a flit of piano wandering across, and African percussion, ‘Khulula’ finds feet as an alternative meets dream-pop with a distinctive Afro-inspired flair of avant-garde eclecticism. Melodically, the tune is intense and knocks you off your feet. Lyrically, it is as weighty and profound. Anacy explains:
“’Khulula’ explores themes of emotional exhaustion, romantic escapism, and the desire for reinvention. The song was inspired by the experience of feeling disconnected from familiar surroundings, frustrated by repeated disappointments in local relationships, and unexpectedly becoming captivated by someone who represents distance, excitement and emotional intensity. The word “khulula”, meaning “to release”, “take off”, or “set free”, serves as the emotional core of the song, symbolising both the act of letting go of the past and surrendering to new possibilities.”
In addition to the single, Anacy released an official lyric video for ‘Khulula’. You can view the video below and/or on her YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about Anacy on her Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more alternative-pop music on The Other Side Reviews Alternative Pop playlist:
