Locnville Reunites with Sketchy Bongo for New Single “Déjà Vu”
South African electro-hop duo Locnville has returned with longtime collaborator Sketchy Bongo for their latest single, “Déjà Vu,” marking their first official release together since hits like “Cold Shoulder” and “95 Skyline.” The track serves as the lead single for an upcoming EP of the same name, signaling a fresh chapter for the trio. “Déjà Vu” blends polished production with nostalgic themes, exploring past relationships, missed opportunities, and the emotional weight of what could have been. Longtime fans of Locnville will instantly recognize the signature sound that has defined their music over the years, while new listeners are introduced to a seamless mix of electro-pop and reflective storytelling. This release demonstrates the duo’s continued ability to evolve while staying true to their musical roots.
The collaboration between Locnville and Sketchy Bongo came together naturally, reflecting years of creative synergy. Sketchy Bongo described the process as effortless, stating that working with Locnville has always produced hits, and this session was no different. Andrew Chaplin of Locnville recalled that “Déjà Vu” was born during a spontaneous session in Abu Dhabi, where a small makeshift hotel studio became the birthplace of five tracks, with this song emerging as the standout. The organic approach allowed the track to capture raw emotion and creative freedom, resulting in a song that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. With more music already in development, the upcoming EP is expected to expand on the chemistry that has made their past collaborations so successful.
Locnville, made up of identical twins Andrew and Brian Chaplin, has left a significant mark on South African pop and electronic music. Born in New York City and raised in Cape Town, the duo rose to prominence with their debut album Sun in My Pocket, which topped the charts and earned them an MK Award for Best Newcomer. Their discography includes successful projects such as Running To Midnight, Faster Longer Mixtape, The Odyssey, Taste The Weekend, and The Burn Box. International recognition followed when they won an MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act, cementing their status as leading musical exports from the continent. Recent singles, including “Show Me Love,” have continued to gain traction across radio and streaming platforms, showing their ability to remain relevant while exploring new sounds.
“Déjà Vu” highlights the duo’s skill in blending nostalgia with modern production. The track captures the familiar feel of their earlier work while introducing new sonic textures that reflect their growth as artists. Sketchy Bongo’s signature production complements Locnville’s vocals, creating a layered sound that is both danceable and emotionally resonant. Listeners can expect to hear themes of reflection, longing, and introspection, all delivered through a vibrant electro-hop lens. This release positions the upcoming EP as a significant moment in Locnville’s career, promising a mix of past influences and forward-looking creativity.
To celebrate the release, Locnville and Sketchy Bongo will perform live across South Africa, bringing the energy of “Déjà Vu” to audiences in person. Scheduled performances include a private launch at Radisson Red Rooftop in Cape Town on 20 March 2026, followed by shows at Hotshots Nightclub in Durban on 3 April, CRCL in Durban and Madison Avenue in Pietermaritzburg on 4 April, and a performance at Grand Africa Beach & Cafe in Cape Town on 30 April. “Déjà Vu” is now available on all major streaming platforms, marking the triumphant return of a collaboration that has produced some of South Africa’s most memorable electro-pop tracks. Fans old and new can experience the evolution of Locnville and Sketchy Bongo as they continue to shape the country’s musical landscape.
