OMAR SOSA – ILÉ (EN)

Between jazz and the music of South America, the Cuban pianist Omar Sosa is one of the most eclectic magicians on the international scene. His new album, Ilé, takes its name from the African language Yoruba, meaning my land or earth, and is a nod to the culture of his native island. The music is diverse: ballads and subtle, catchy songs, are steeped in his Afro-Cuban roots and flavoured with a hint of electro.

For this project, Omar surrounded himself with seasoned musicians with whom he has close ties. He worked with his two compatriots Ernesto Simpson (drums) and Leandro Saint-Hill (alto-sax, flute and clarinet), both born in Camaguey (as was he), and Childo Tomas (electric bass), originally from Mozambique. Together they make up the Quarteto AfroCubano, speaking the same musical language and using their Cuban and African heritage as a springboard to find new ways to express their creativity.

For the first time since Free Roots and Bembon (the two albums which made his reputation in France) this new album contains not just instrumental pieces, but also vocal tracks. Omar, who has lived in Spain for fifteen years, worked with the celebrated flamenco singer Jose “El Salao” Martin, and also on two songs with Kokayi, the American poet-rapper.