Tosin Aribisala - Afrika Rising (2018)

A renaissance force to be reckoned with, the music of composer, vocalist and percussionist Tosin speaks highly of his African origin, coupled with his exploration of jazz, funk, rock, reggae and Latin American music. As a prolific composer, Tosin writes and sings in Yoruba, Pidgin English and English. Over the years, he has drawn inspirations from his musical influences in the likes of Tony Allen, Art Blakey, Dennis Chambers, Bob Marley, King Sunny Ade, Fela Kuti, Manu Dibango, Majek Fashek, Keziah Jones, Sting, Seal, Peter Gabriel, and Ebo Taylor.

As a child growing up in Nigeria, Tosin was drawn to music of various origins from around the world through his father's vast album collection. His initial education in music started from consciously listening to those records, as well as reading the liner notes. These diverse sounds reflect in his compositions. In his own words, Tosin professes that, "my music is a mixture of African rhythmic textures and some elements of jazz and blues, with lyrics of hope, love and human realities." Possessing infectious groove sensibility and versatility, Tosin has shared his talents with various groups and artists including Carolyn Malachi, Taj Mahal, Baba Maal, Fatoumata Diawara, Spyro Gyra, Julie Dexter, Femi Kuti, and many producers.

In 2017, Tosin received the Individual Artist Award for best World Music Compositions from the Maryland State Arts Council. In the same year (2017), Tosin appeared on the Drumeo Channel for instructions on African rhythms for the drum set. In 2016, Tosin appeared at the Percussive Arts Society’s International Convention as a clinician/performer. In 2014, he received the Individual Artist Awards for the best World Music Compositions from the Maryland State Arts Council. Tosin has appeared on the MTV’s Realworld Show performing his Drum Monologue. Other appearances include the Voice of America and Fox 5 News with his own group.

Being a bandleader with 4 albums to his credit, his most recent projects include singles: "What Are We Gonna Do?", and African-themed remix of Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” - 2016. His band has performed, both as headliner and opening act at many festivals and jazz venues in the US. With keen interest and passion for teaching, Tosin continues to inspire both the young and older generations of drummers and music lovers through his teaching programs and workshops. In the same vein, he does not relent in writing new materials. Tosin's new album, Afrika Rising, is set for release in June 2018 on Ropeadope Records.

Tracklist:
01. Tosin Aribisala - Oro Ajoso
02. Tosin Aribisala - Afrika Rising
03. Tosin Aribisala - Asiko
04. Tosin Aribisala - Jayesimi
05. Tosin Aribisala - New Moon Dance
06. Tosin Aribisala - Bekun Pe
07. Tosin Aribisala - Sunday Evening Mood
08. Tosin Aribisala - Mase Gbagbe
09. Tosin Aribisala - Meje Meje