Oriental Brothers International Band – Onye Rie Ibe Ya Erie (Palenque Records, 2024)
Palenque Records is celebrating 50 Years of Igbo Highlife icons, Oriental Brothers International Band. The legendary ensemble from Nigeria is known for their pioneering role in Igbo highlife music. However, the band’s influence extends far beyond Africa. Specifically, it left a lasting effect on the Champeta sound systems of Cartagena in the Caribbean coastal area of Colombia.
Founded in 1973, the Oriental Brothers, led by vocalist Dr. Sir Warrior and guitarist Kabaka, quickly became a sensation. The band shaped the highlife genre with their powerful lyrics and intricate instrumental work. Their music resonated deeply within Colombia’s Afro-descendant communities, influencing the birth of the Champeta musical movement. The team at Palenque Records discovered their music in 1996 and has been inspired by it ever since.
This new album, Onye Rie Ibe Ya Erie, represents a significant moment. It is the first recording from the Oriental Brothers in over two decades, released in honor of their 50th anniversary.
The original lineup of the Oriental Brothers International Band featured Godwin “Kabaka” Opara (guitarist and band leader), Dr. Sir Warrior (vocalist), Ferdinand “DanSatch” Opara (lead guitarist), Livinus Akwila (conga and maraca player), and Fred “Ichita” Ahumaraeze (drummer). Their debut album, Uwa Atualamujo/ Ihe Chinyere, was recorded in 1973 at Decca West Africa Studio. It wasn’t until their 1974 album Oriental Brothers International that the group gained widespread recognition, particularly with the track “Ihe Oma.”
Internal disputes eventually led to the band’s breakup, with each member forming their own offshoots. Despite the fragmentation, Dr. Sir Warrior’s group gained the most popularity, followed by Kabaka’s band. Despite these challenges, the original members collaborated on two final albums, Anyi Abiala Ọzọ and Oriental Ga-Ebi, before Sir Warrior’s passing.
Today, the legacy of the Oriental Brothers continues to thrive through live performances and re-releases, ensuring their place as highlife music icons.
Current band members: Ferdinand Dansatch Opara (band leader); Livinus Aquila Alaribe (congas); John Okere (bass); Okechukwu Uzodinma (Rhythm guitar); Afrizia Obinna (composè); Kenneth Emenogu (Lead guitar); John Paul Opara (maracas); Ebere Nwebe (drums). Singers: Dan Satch, Kampala Yokolo.
Produced by Lucas Silva
Recorded in Upright Studios, Onitsha, Nigwria, in 2024.
Buy Onye Rie Ibe Ya Erie.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.