Afro futurist sensations Onipa unleash their debut album, combining afro grooves, electronics and fierce energy for an effervescent celebration of cultural and musical encounters.

ONIPA means ‘human’ in Akan, the ancient language of the Ashanti people of Ghana. It’s a message of connection through collaboration: from Ghana to London, our ancestors to our children, Onipa brings energy, groove, electronics, afrofuturism, dance and fire! Born out of deep collaboration between long-time friends KOG (Kweku of Ghana of KOG and the Zongo Brigade) and Tom Excell (MD, guitarist and writer of acclaimed jazz/ soul afrobeat pioneers Nubiyan Twist), the 4 piece live show features KOG on vocals, balafon and percussion, Tom Excell on guitar, percussion and electronics, Dwayne Kilvington (Wonky Logic) on synths and MPC and Finn Booth (Nubiyan Twist) on drums.

The group have worked closely with Ghanaian star Wiyaala who features on 3 tracks, singing in the Sissala language from the North of Ghana.

The album also features collaborations with South African rapper Spoek Mathambo, Lesotho star Morena Leraba, Ghanaian percussion master Afla Sackey, UK rapper Syntax and Tanzanian sisters Pendo & Leah Zawose, each adding their own flavour to the project.

Building on a stellar performance at the 2019 Felabration at Paradiso Amsterdam alongside Pat Thomas and Dele Sosimi, ONIPA have a full UK and EU tour scheduled for Spring and Summer 2020.

It’s a fresh, raw, fiercely energetic new sound, fusing electronics and deep afro grooves. Think Konono no.1 meets Shangaan Electro, Songhoy Blues and Débruit….