Proof of Life’ showcases the synergy between the two artists in exploring culturally diverse concepts and themes. The result is a work with a rich sonic tapestry, resonating with themes of love, life, and survival in turbulent times….

 

– Jazz Reportagen

PROOF OF LIFE, produced and recorded at Onabulé’s Casa Del Funk Studios, showcases the synergy between the two artists as they explore culturally diverse concepts and themes. Their partnership, which began through a series of livestream performances during the pandemic, has evolved into a collection of ten original songs.

THE ALBUM IS OUT NOW – LISTEN HERE:

https://olaonabule.bandcamp.com/album/proof-of-life

“Proof of Life” features a blend of Onabulé’s signature songwriting style of polyrhythms and melodies drawn from his African roots with Meier’s love of eastern, world and Jazz themes as well as his expertise with a wide range of stringed instruments. This has resulted in the creation of a work with a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with themes of love, life and philosophies of survival in tumultuous times. The songwriting process was marked by a process of organic collaboration, where both artists contributed ideas and melodies, resulting in a cohesive body of work that captures their individual strengths while exploring creative boundaries were new to both artists.

MORE ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

OLA ONABULÉ is also renowned for his remarkable three-and-a-half octave vocal range and collaborative performances with an impressive range of international big bands and symphony orchestras, including The WDR Big Band, The Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, The SWR Big Band, The Babelsberg Film Orchestra, HR Big Band, The Liepāja Symphony Orchestra, The Danish Radio Big Band, Latvian. Radio Big Band, The Big Band Jazz de Mexico and other Grammy Award-winning ensembles internationally. With twelve albums to his credit, Onabulé has established himself as a versatile artist who seamlessly crosses musical genres, earning worldwide critical acclaim for his impeccable writing and production skills.

NICOLAS MEIER is celebrated for his versatility. In 2013, he was a featured collaborator in Jeff Beck’s Jeff Beck Group, touring the world with the seminal guitarist twice. Meier is known for his exploration of Eastern, harmonies and melodies which translates into his prodigious mastery of eastern stringed instruments. His work with Turkish Makam and Ayak scales is of particular significance , as is his extensive musical portfolio showcasing his diverse compositional style across many ‘World Music’ genres. His collaboration with Onabulé on “Proof of Life” represents a unique meeting of minds between two skilled communicators and seasoned performers who share a passion for culturally diverse musical expressions.