Nina Ogot - Dala (2019) [Hi-Res]

For more than a decade, the vocalist and guitarist has performed as a trio band until recently in 2018 when a 13 piece band lineup was formed for an event in Cologne-Germany dubbed “Jambo Day” by the Treasures of Kenya Initiative. This is a nonprofit trust based in Kenya and Germany dedicated to the conservation of Kenya’s natural and cultural heritage. Together, the new team recorded Nina Ogot’s third album “Dala” in 2019, followed by a series of performances in both countries.

“Dala” means “home” in Nina Ogot’s mother tongue, Dholuo. In this album the musician moulds her roots into a modern upbeat sound. For inspiration, Nina Ogot looked to the older generation of Kenyan musical gurus like Daudi Kabaka and Joseph Ngala. Benga hooks, groovy percussions, classical string arrangements, catchy horns and vocals all testify to the musical prowess of Nina Ogot’s band. This record therefore promises its audience a rich and colourful musical palette.

Nina Ogot, lead vocals, acoustic guitar
Fabio Nettekoven, electric guitar
Arne Dreske, piano
Izo Anyanga, percussion, flute
Kay Vester, percussion
Billy Ray, drums, percussion
Marcus Rieck, drums
Lennart Busse, bass
Christian Spors, trumpet, flugelhorn
Robin Richard, tenor saxophone
Phillip Burgstedt, alt & baritone saxophone
Jan Urnau, trombone
Birgit Speitmann, background vocals
Nora van Rijn, background vocals

Tracklist:
01. Nina Ogot - Dala (6:51)
02. Nina Ogot - Rafiki (6:53)
03. Nina Ogot - Mama (7:23)
04. Nina Ogot - Yuwapi (7:21)
05. Nina Ogot - Siku Moja (7:51)
06. Nina Ogot - Tabasamu (7:03)
07. Nina Ogot - Silly Bird (4:55)
08. Nina Ogot - Pole Pole (5:23)
09. Nina Ogot - Taa (5:37)
10. Nina Ogot - Amor (4:48)