Oakland-based African psychedelic rock ensemble Orchestra Gold has released its new single titled ‘Koniya.’ The single will appear in their upcoming third studio album “Medicine” scheduled for release January 20, 2023.
Vocalist Mariam Diakite says about ‘Koniya’: “The lyrics of this song are meant for everybody: all of Humanity. Jealousy is of no benefit.
“What do I mean by Jealousy? For example, if I see you have lots of money and I get upset. That is the type of Jealousy I speak of.
“To take another example, say someone wants to buy me a house. They tell this to their friend, and that friend tries to talk them out of it, saying ‘no why do you want to buy Mariam a house, she has plenty of money!’ This is another destructive element of Jealousy: it’s to try and block someone else from finding their happiness. It’s when we don’t have another’s best interest at heart.
“Even in marriage, friendships, and work relationships, there can be jealousy. To take the point home, us musicians can be super jealous of each other’s abilities!
“The song says there is no benefit to jealousy of this type. It’s not good for us, and it’s not good for others. We can do better.”
“Medicine” credits: Luke Bace, co-producer; Erich Huffaker, producer. Recorded at Tiny Telephone Studios in Oakland, California. Jacob Winik, recording engineer.
Musicians: Luke Bace on bass; Leila Elizabeth on percussion; Mariam Diakite on vocals and percussion; Chris Hoog on baritone saxophone; Luis Andrade on tenor saxophone; Aaron Kierbel on drums; Erich Huffaker on guitar.
Orchestra Gold is a collaboration between Mariam Diakite (Mali) and Erich Huffaker (USA). The ensemble combines the traditions of Mali and American rock and funk with a retro feel, presenting a powerful cross-cultural experience. In reality, Orchestra Gold intertwines Malian traditions and vocals in Bambara along with heavy swinging rhythms, a funky fresh brass section, and cosmic guitar licks.
Recently, Orchestra Gold opened for Afrobeat living legend Ebo Taylor at The UC Theatre, and they’ve performed live at Treefort, Oakland Museum of California, Bandcamp, Commissioned for Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, and Joshua Tree Music Festival.
The new album “Medicine” will be self-released on CD and all digital/streaming platforms on January 20, 2023, with a limited vinyl pressing to follow afterwards.
“They are grounded in tradition and moving the conversation of African diasporic music forward. The album implores the listener to join in and get lost in the magic,” says Chico Mann (Antibalas / Here Lies Man)
More about the band Orchestragold.com
Author: World Music Central News Room
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