aaamusic | On 23, Oct 2012

Mancunian artist Josephine Oniyama is a female singer songwriter who gives a modern twist to traditional soul. She has a Liberian mother and Jamaican father and began playing guitar at twelve. Her influences are folk, world, reggae and gospel artists like Fela Kuti , King Sunny Ade, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley and Joni Mitchell.

Her striking debut album Portrait is released on 8th October, 2012 on Rubyworks / Ark recordings. Collaborators include Ed Harcourt, Seb Rochford, Ben Hillier. Jimmy Hogarth and Leo Abrahams.
When We Were Trespassers dreamily recalls the innocence of youth whilst creepy sounds pulse in the background. The timeless and melancholic title track Portrait has stunning vocals and the bright, vibrant and upbeat What A Day is outstanding. Pepper Shaker’s shuffling rhythms merge latin with a funky blues sound and the tender and delicate House of Mirrors becomes spine-tingling.
In Portrait can be found classy, soulful and beautiful songs created in a range of musical styles. It’s a rich, eclectic and original album and Josephine’s warm and natural voice sparkles with charm and clarity.
Track list: 1. When We Were Trespassers 2. A Freak A 3. Portrait 4. Original Love 5. I Think It Was Love 6. What A Day 7. Last Minute 8. Pepper Shaker 9. I Pray That I Move 10. House Of Mirrors.

★★★★★
Anthony Weightman