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These
are the words that I would attribute to Ola Onabule in that I was
taken-aback not only by the mixture of melodies and harmonies but
also by the pure energy and passion that came from both him and
individual members of the band
I was taken-aback not only by the mixture of melodies and harmonies
but also by the pure energy and passion that come from both
him and individual members of the band.  |
| Pete
Brown |
Ola, the
lead singer of the band, displayed so much passion and emotion in
his songs as well as giving a captivating performance that had the
audience sitting in silent wonder of what to expect next. This truly
was a night to remember. And most of the songs were based on the theme
of love, but not just carnal love. He was talking about brotherly
love, and making this a better world.
Now,
lets get down to the proceedings of the night and what happened.
The show started with an announcement over the tannoy that the band
would be on in two minutes. People hurried off to their seats and
settled down. It was obvious that some had seen him before and were
followers of the band. It was also obvious that a majority had not
but had heard good things and wanted to experience him for themselves.
I saw people stopping and chatting to acquaintances on their way
to their seats and exchanging remarks about what was about to hit
us!
The
show
The
band came on followed by Ola himself. Straight away the music hit
us with full force, pinning each person down to their seat.
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I don't say this very often, but I was struck speechless by
what was on display. |
| Pete
Brown |
All
you could do was sit, listen and absorb what was coming at you,
sounds and showmanship in equal quantities. I don't say this very
often, but I was struck speechless by what was on display. My ears
were working in full mode while at the same time my eyes were being
assaulted by images of captivating pleasure. My mind had to run
in overload just to keep abreast with the proceedings. It was magic!
Within
the first two or three songs I noticed that I was not the only one
who had been hypnotised, mesmerised and completely taken in by the
show. There were hands slapping tights, feet tapping away and even
torso's swaying from side to side. It was evident throughout the
crowd. I had to break my concentration from the band to look at
the audience and notice all this movement. It was great to know
that I wasn't alone in what I was feeling.
By
the end of the first session, I was pretty sure that everyone was
enjoying the night. Just to confirm my suspicions I asked around
during the interval what people felt about the show so far. There
was not a bad word to be heard from anyone! The worst freed back
I got was "It's very different, isn't it? Not exactly what
I was expecting, but it's interesting". I would take that as
a positive comment.
Ola's
"unique style"
Ola
has a unique style and sound. His voice reminded me of Luther Vandross
and George Benson, combined. Yes, it was that good, traversing the
musical scale with such easiness and smoothness. At the same time
he moved and grooved to the music with grace and passion.
The
band
And
the band, now that was something! The pianist/keyboardist, Pete
Adams, was spectacular. I've never seen someone with such agile
fingers and someone who put so much soul into his playing. Mind
you we were warned at the beginning of the show by Ola to be careful
of this captivating individual!
The
drummer, Julian Mcffaden, I think was just as great. I really loved
his style and his energy. I did find it hard to keep up with him
at times, and I do know how to keep a beat.
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I mean, if they were the only band to play at the Beckham's
wedding reception, then they must be good, hey? |
| Pete
Brown |
What
can I say about Don Chandler, the bassist? The sound was tight and
real. It was funky, smooth and boy, it was just delicious. Finally
I come to the guitarist, Neil Tomlikson, I think. He was wonderful.
Yes, a group of professionals who know their instruments well, and
how to use them and make them sound and behave in the manner they
want them to.
All
in all, this is a band you just have to see to understand what I'm
talking about. You would not regret it, not a penny! I promise you
that.
I could
go on and on and on about this band, but I won't. I mean, if they
were the only band to play at the Beckham's wedding reception, then
they must be good, hey?
Now
I see why they have played with and backed such groups as Gladys
Knight, Diane Reeves and Natalie Cole to mention a few. If you ever
get the chance to see them I recommend you do.
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Review: Ola Onabule
