Alles Wat Mal Is cover

Alles Wat Mal Is

Die Heuwels Fantasties · 2012

46 min · 12 tracks · electronic music

A vibrant blend of electronic soundscapes and Afrikaans lyrics that encapsulate contemporary South African life.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Beloofde Land — Opening with rich electronic textures, this track establishes the album's thematic exploration of longing and belonging in a rapidly changing society.
  • →
    Koolstof Drome — This song's pulsating beat and introspective lyrics reflect on dreams and aspirations, making it a standout moment that resonates deeply with listeners.
  • →
    Die Volkslied — Employing a catchy chorus and folk-inspired melodies, this track cleverly merges traditional and modern influences, highlighting the band's innovative approach.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends vibrant electronic soundscapes with Afrikaans lyrics, showcasing strong craft and composition.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of layered synths and rhythmic beats that create a rich electronic soundscape throughout.
  • Tracks often incorporate dynamic shifts in tempo, with several songs transitioning from upbeat sections to more subdued moments.
  • Vocals are interspersed with instrumental breaks, allowing the electronic elements to take center stage at key points.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • playful exploration of everyday life
  • pulsating rhythms for social gatherings
  • vibrant soundscapes for road trips
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • inviting sing-along moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking deep introspective themes
  • prefer lengthy, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2012, Alles Wat Mal Is is Die Heuwels Fantasties' third studio album, following their successful sophomore release, which had established them as prominent figures in the Afrikaans music scene. At this point in their career, the band was honing their unique fusion of electronic music with local cultural influences.
Stylistic neighbors
Gold Panda· Tycho· Odesza

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Jonk Tot More

    The bridge shifts perspective, inviting listeners into a moment of nostalgia and youthful optimism.

    This change in perspective deepens emotional engagement, creating an intimate connection that contrasts with the more general themes explored throughout the rest of the album.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Beloofde Land 4:08
  • 2 Deesdae 3:35
  • 3 Rofstoeigreep 4:11
  • 4 Ek Sou Wou 3:34
  • 5 Jonk Tot More 4:10
  • 6 Koolstof Drome 3:48
  • 7 Die Volkslied 3:47
  • 8 See Alleen 2:55
  • 9 Drome en Ligte 4:04
  • 10 Onder Beheer 4:15
  • 11 Warrelwind Saadjie 3:45
  • 12 Kristalliseer 3:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata