Search - Ola Onabule :: Precious Libations

Ola's new set re-defines 'oldskool' soul

ozzie | London | 04/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Well, having noted the rave reviews in 'Blues and Soul' ('a soulful classic of the nineties'), 'Black echoes' (you won't hear a better soul album all year long') etc etc I thought I'd better check out this release by fast emerging UK (via Nigeria) artist, Ola ('makes Al Jarreau sound like Julie Andrews' according to 'Blues and Soul' again).Well, i have to say I wasn't disappointed! The album doesn't have that 'in your face' 'tear up trees' feel of Ola's dynamic stage act but a very classy set it is. Four tracks very definitely have a 70's Stevie feel 'Heartbreak Ghetto', 'If You Knew', 'Birthday Funk' and 'Heart of Mine' (any of which would make an obvious single) while tracks like 'Stay Here Forever', 'When I look At You' are more into the jazz/contempory smooth soul vibe. An excellent album, full of gems (check out also, the powerful 'The Picture'- compelling lyric 'I can see the picture but not the way you paint it')which flows as a set. A near masterpiece - classic, timeless music - can see why the Uk press is so excited!"