Original Music

Igbimọ òrìṣà (Council of the divine)
This piece thematically embodies the essence of African culture in the diaspora, focusing on the Yoruba presence in 1950s and 60s New York. The composition draws inspiration from the writings and legacy of Babatunde Olatunji—a pioneer of the drum circle movement who collaborated with civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nkrumah Kwame. The rhythms evoke a sense of communal gathering, with layered percussion and call-and-response motifs reminiscent of both traditional Yoruba ceremonies and the vibrant energy of Harlem's cultural renaissance during that era. The melodies weave a narrative of resilience, solidarity, and cultural pride, painting an auditory picture of a time when music served as a bridge between continents and as a powerful tool for social change.

This piece is thematically crafted to evoke the soulful essence of Harlem in the 1960s, capturing its vibrant spirit and cultural depth. Layered with rich colors and intricate textures, the composition mirrors the complexity of the era—a time of artistic brilliance, social change, and unyielding resilience. Suspense weaves through the narrative, adding an undercurrent of anticipation that reflects both the struggles and triumphs of the period, making the work as dynamic and evocative as the community it represents.