House music is the genre that keeps on giving. Its elastic framework has long allowed for the emergence of new sub-genres that speak to a specific moment or feeling, and in Southern Africa, that moment is now defined by 3-step. A spiritual cousin to Amapiano, 3-step strips back the percussive layers and intricate log drums, leaving a spacious, almost meditative but groovy bounce that gives the music a distinct character. It’s a genre that thrives on atmosphere and emotional resonance.

The sound has been building a formidable wave, with South African producers and vocalists leading the charge. In the past year alone, tracks such as Mawhoo’s “Bengicela” featuring Jazzworx and Thukuthela, Jazzworx’s “uValo” with Dladla Thukzin, and Oscar Mbo’s “Vuka” demonstrated just how decidedly arresting and exciting 3-step can be. Earlier this year, CIZA emerged as one of its most persuasive ambassadors with “Isaka II (6am),” a collaboration with Jazzworx and Thukuthela. “Isaka II (6am)” was already a juggernaut, a viral sensation that became a bona fide global hit, proving its mettle across dance floors. For the sequel, CIZA went into its preparation understanding that you don’t mess with a masterpiece.

When the 24-year-old South African artist teased the remix, “Isaka II (6am),” with a video featuring his parents — his mother, Nhlanhla Mafu of the legendary group Mafikizolo, and his father, TK Nciza — the track’s potential for greatness was preordained; afterall 3-step is a spiritual genre and Tems and Omah lay are spiritual artists. Produced by Lekaa Beats, “Isaka II (6am)” is a titillating, deeply felt experience. Omah Lay’s magnetic croon glides over the urgent beats. Tems, making her 3-step debut, also brings her ethereal vocals. Her voice is a thing of beauty, a cascade of emotion that seems to float just above the driving percussion. The lyrics themselves are featherlight, the kind of easy refrains that slip across the room and keep dancers locked into rhythm. They say just enough, and no more, which is exactly what you want at a rave.