Olatuja, Michael
ObliqSound, 2009, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 15.3
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 5
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Speak is a cool set of R&B vocals, gospel and contemporary jazz led by bassist Michael Olatjah with several guest vocalists. They open with “Ma Foya” laced with African percussion that sets the stage for the soulful set. We liked “Altar Call” and “Yi Yipada” with Eska Mtugwazi singing the lead lines backed by strong harmony and rhythm. Lynden David Hall (vocals) leads the charge on “Hold On” before Terri Walker takes the mic on the funky “Little Sister”. We get a bit of spirituality on “Le Jardin” featuring Onaje Jefferson and on “Walk With Me” featuring Alicia Olatuja with strong work from Jason Rebello (p). Alicia also sings Yoruba and English lyrics on “Unconditional”, one of many solid tunes in an excellent set. We found much to like and little to skip!
Publicist: Goldberg Media
