(Review by Lance)
I didn't know much about Onabulé except that the London based Nigerian had sung solo at the wedding of Posh and Becks. Deciding that those iconic figures wouldn't hire crap I decided to check him out.
I'm glad I did - it was a cracking night well appreciated by a slightly older than the normal Hoochie crowd.
Fronting a six piece band (trumpet, tenor, keys, guitar, bass-guitar and drums) he delivered a soul packed performance.
Blessed with an incredible range, Onabulé swoops from basso profundo to falsetto soprano with apparent ease. At times the affable African sounded like Bobby McFerrin, this was a virtuoso vocal performance.
Apart from Chris Nicholls on drums, I didn't catch the names of the rest of the band although the faces looked familiar. All were ace soloists with the trumpet player quite amazing, likewise the tenorman. They didn't have enough solo space but made good use of it when they did. Guitar and keyboard had the lion's share and they also impressed. Nicholls on drums pounded things along being given a lengthy solo mid set. Bass guitarist looks like Boycie from Only Fools and Horses but he's no fool and is a good workhouse laying it down without let up.
A great night.
Another coup for Warren this coming Friday (Oct. 18) when he brings legendary trombonist Fred Wesley to the Pilgrim St. venue.
Lance.
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