Abiola, Abiola Time Review

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Abiola, Abiola Time Review

by J. Pepper

abiola-cdAbiola is a world music vocalist that has been singing, dancing, and acting across four continents. She is a dynamic and exciting entertainer and approaches her musical exploration from a multicultural perspective. Her skills have been shared across many platforms, from The Classical Theatre of Harlem in New York to sharing the stage with GRAMMY-winner Shania Twain. From shaking the stage with Latin GRAMMY-nominee Viviana Pintada to crooning with jazz big bands. Abiola spent three and a half years in Asia performing music ranging from traditional Korean folk songs to African and Latin dances; Abiola used art to share her global experiences and connect with Asian audiences. In Nigeria, Abiola has collaborated with TeeY Mix, Sound Sultan, Moelogo, and Ovis TeBrown. She closed the show for the critically acclaimed Jungle Story 2, gracing the stage with Seyi Shay, Cobhams Asuquo, Femi and Seun Kuti, Johnny Drille, Vector, and a host of others. Abiola is thrilled to be featured on “Oshumare,” a unique track on Sound Sultan’s final album, 8th Wondah. In addition, Abiola is delighted to present her debut album, Abiola Time.

“What We’ll Be” has lyrics that speak to how, as a Nigerian-born woman, Abiola has grown up in the UK, and the US, connecting with the traditions of her Nigerian culture is something she consciously absorbed. Abiola has studied the Myths and tales passed down through the ages is what the song’s lyrics depict, a romance that is like the mythical love between Osun and Sango (Yorùbá òrìṣà – deities). With a strong R&B beat and pop overtones. Abiola especially sings a duet with herself. The two parts interwind beautifully. “What We’ll Be” tickles the ears with harmonic ambrosia that nourishes the soul.

Abiola’s voice is rich and colorful in texture, culturally complex, and delightfully lush. Listen to the strong influence of Nigeria on “Para Ti, Par Mi.” The melody is structured in a call-and-response part with Abiola’s genuinely decadent melody embellishments. The joyful listening experience also pulls in sounds of her time in Korea during the bridge.

Abiola’s debut album, Abiola Time, is a beautiful international music experience that will inspire dance movements from around the globe with infectious rhythms and Agiola’s dazzling singing. Her tone and lyrics are structured with delightful melodies. She was honored to work with GRAMMY-winner Dave Darlington of Bass Hit Recording to complete the mixing and mastering of this eclectically satisfying album. Abiola Time invites you into the heart of the songstress.

 

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