Picture this: you're at a beach party as the sun dips below the horizon, the air buzzing with energy, and a track drops that makes your body move before your brain even catches up. That’s the vibe of “Gbese” by KEENE and Eli Fola—a pulsating, groove-heavy banger that’s equal parts tribal fire and melodic finesse. If you’re into Afro house, melodic techno, or deep house, this track is about to become your new obsession. Let’s dive into why this collaboration is pure magic and why KEENE and Eli Fola are names you need to know in 2025.
A Groove That Hits Like a Tidal Wave
“Gbese” is a masterclass in blending genres without losing focus. From the first beat, you’re hit with a driving tribal rhythm that feels like it’s summoning the spirits of the dancefloor. The percussion is crisp and layered, with those signature Afro house kicks and shakers that make your hips sway involuntarily. KEENE, the Panama-born, Berlin-based brother duo of Lloyd and Kevin Keene, bring their polished production chops to the table, weaving in melodic techno elements that add a dreamy, almost hypnotic layer to the track. Think deep, rolling basslines that rumble through your chest and subtle synths that ebb and flow like waves.
Then there’s Eli Fola, the Nigerian artist whose vocals and energy elevate “Gbese” to another level. His voice carries a soulful grit, layered over the track’s infectious rhythm, delivering Yoruba-inspired lyrics that add cultural depth and authenticity. The word “Gbese” itself is Yoruba slang for “trouble” or “dance,” and trust me, this track is both—trouble for anyone trying to stand still and a call to let loose on the dancefloor. The interplay between KEENE’s sleek production and Eli Fola’s raw, emotive delivery creates a track that’s as club-ready as it is festival-worthy.
The production is clean yet organic, a hallmark of KEENE’s style since they started making waves in Panama’s house and techno scene back in 2010. You can hear their Berlin influence too—those melodic techno flourishes that nod to the city’s underground clubs, mixed with the warm, vibrant pulse of Afro house. It’s a sound that’s both global and timeless, perfect for a rooftop rave in Lagos or a late-night set in Kreuzberg.
Who Are KEENE and Eli Fola?
KEENE, made up of brothers Lloyd and Kevin, is a force in the electronic music world. Since moving to Berlin in 2015 and setting up shop at Riverside Studios, they’ve honed a sound that’s seductive, elegant, and undeniably danceable. Their brotherly chemistry is their secret weapon—Lloyd’s ear for melody and Kevin’s technical wizardry combine to create tracks that feel effortless yet meticulously crafted. Beyond producing, they’re also shaking things up with their Berlin-based label, Cacao Records, which is quickly becoming a go-to for fresh house and techno talent.
Eli Fola, on the other hand, brings a distinctly African flavor to the mix. Known for his work in Afrobeat and house, he’s a storyteller who uses music to bridge cultures. His contribution to “Gbese” isn’t just vocal—it’s spiritual, grounding the track in a sense of place and history while keeping it universally relatable. Together, KEENE and Eli Fola are a dream team, blending Berlin’s cutting-edge electronic scene with the soul of African rhythms.
Why “Gbese” Is a 2025 Must-Listen
Afro house is having a moment right now, with artists like Black Coffee and Shimza pushing the genre into the global spotlight. “Gbese” fits right into this wave, but it stands out for its seamless fusion of tribal energy and melodic techno sophistication. It’s the kind of track that works at any time of night—whether you’re warming up the crowd or closing out a set with a bang. The rise of Afro house in 2025 is no surprise, with festivals like Tomorrowland and Boiler Room showcasing more African-influenced electronic music than ever. “Gbese” feels like the perfect anthem for this movement, capturing the genre’s infectious joy and universal appeal.
The track’s versatility is another strength. It’s got enough depth for the underground heads who geek out over production details, but it’s also accessible enough to get a mainstream crowd moving. Whether you’re streaming it on Spotify, catching it in a DJ set, or dancing to it at a festival, “Gbese” delivers that feel-good energy we all need right now.
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Final Thoughts: Let “Gbese” Take You Away
“Gbese” is more than just a track—it’s a vibe, a journey, and a testament to what happens when artists from different worlds collide to create something fresh. KEENE’s polished production and Eli Fola’s soulful vocals make this a standout in the Afro house scene, and it’s bound to be a staple in DJ sets throughout 2025. So, crank up the volume, let the rhythm take over, and tell me—what do you think of this track? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!
