Inspired by luminaries such as Thundercat, Kumasi Washington and Yussef Dayes, ‘Now’s The Time’ pulls from sonic traditions laden in gospel, drill, Hip-Hop, neo-soul and classical music. A body of work in Onabowu’s own words that has the ability to act as an “open door into contemporary jazz for people who don’t see themselves as “jazz listeners”.
Set for release on May 22nd via Finished Work Records Ltd, the album prioritises improvisation and the visceral energy of a live band. While the music explores rich harmonic ideas and shifting forms, rhythm remains the driving force, blurring the lines between jazz, the club, and the street.
The album features an assortment of well-regarded musicians and accompanying players from all over Europe, the U.S. and East Africa such as Rick Leon James (Amy Winehouse, Chaka Khan, Tinie Tempah), Alex “Cosmo” Blake (Loyle Carner, Anaiis, Lex Amor), Taylor Graves (Mac Miller, Kimbra, Flying Lotus), Francois Fasano (Sugababes, Tems, Stormzy) and an array of others. Now’s The Time’ is an aural reflection of how today’s class of jazz musicians operate with a borderless and interconnected manner of thinking.