Extra Golden - Ok Oyot System

  by Maarten Schiethart

published: 22 / 9 / 2006

Label: Select Label
Format: CD

intro

First-rate collaboration between Washington DC-based funk rockers Golden and Kenyan group Orchestra Extra Solar Africa

The posthumous release of 'Ok-Oyot System' got me on the wrong foot at the beginning of its opening track 'Ilando Gima Onge'. The information of a Washington DC musician teaming up with (the late) Otieno Jagwasi and his fellow member of Orchestra Extra Solar Africa, Onyango Wuod Omari - wee drums and hesitating guitar licks - seemed to introduce a sympathetic but 'probably' weak album. A few minutes into the 9 minute opener though, I was already under Extra Golden's sway. The next and equally unsuspected move then is 'It's Not Easy' where Ian Eagleson and Alex Minoff of the D.C. based rock band Golden take the upper hand again. The title track finds the musicians catching vibes and the subdued funky rock of DC melts wonderfully with the loose Kenyan approach. 'Ok-Oyot System' (Ok not OK by the way) from then on follows that pace leading to the genuine touch of heart of its closing number, 'Nyajondere'.

Track Listing:-