A subtle and sultry alto-voice emerged from the dimly lit “Jazz Standard” venue located on the east side of Manhattan. Spotlit and centerstage stood Illinois born, Zambian raised, ObliqSound artist, “Somi”. Her delightfully whimsical yet sincere vocal display pierced clearly through the mic, conjuring a range of emotions within the participating audience. Somi’s body undulated to the rhythmic, African infused and jazz-based instrumentation accompaniment behind her and in matured performance-mode, delivered a full-set of music from her latest album (“If The Rains Come First”) worthy of several encores.
Rwandan and Ugandan immigrant parents encouraged Somi to pursue her love of music. She followed through by studying the cello in her formative school years, singing in churches and performing in theatrical productions nation-wide. Her classical background merged into a multi-layered sound upon sojourning to New York. Influences like Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughan brings out a similarity reminiscent of international renown musician Sade.
Everyone should afford themselves the opportunistic listen of Somi’s number two Billboard charted release “If The Rains Come First”.
“Usually having quiet space for introspection and meditation inspires me deeply. I’ve also begun doing more co-writing with the musicians in my band (which include the talented bassiest/keyboardist, Michael Olatuja) for stronger harmonic arrangements and the opportunity to share the music with them in a more personal way.”
“The songs on this album reflect where I am emotionally and spiritually today,” Somi continues. “At the end of the day, I still know who I am and where home is before, during, and after the rain—it’s in the music.” |
