Founded in London in the late 1960s, tonight in their latest incarnation, Ghanaian-Caribbean outfit Osibisa delivered colourful Afro Rock and total Jazz infused musical joy to a packed Boisdale Restaurant.

Indeed, their lineup was an international mini-orchestra of superb skilled and experienced musicians, comprising founding member Del Wendell Richardson fronting on guitar and vocals, Ni Tagoe co-fronting on lead vocals and percussion, Chris Cobbson on guitar, Ruben Dadli on bass , Matteo Saggese on keys, Colin Graham on trumpet, Kevin Davy also on trumpet, Trevor Edwards on trombone and Mel Gaynor MC-ing on drums.

Their set was joyous; full of flowing Rock, Funk and Jazz rhythm, with percussion, bass and brass interwoven into the music; complemented by skilful keys and guitar sounds blending into the grooves, as the true spirit of Africa came through, of which the overall sound was beautiful and uplifting. Their set consisted of 'Beautiful 7', 'The Dawn', 'Y- Sharp', 'Superfly', 'Fire', 'Ojah Awake', 'Music For Gong Song', 'The Coffee Song', 'Dance To The Doby Music', 'Ayiko Bia', 'Wango Wango' as well as their finale, 'Sunshine Day'.

For me the riot of colour and costume in the brass section, as well as the traditional dress of super exuberant Tagoe, not forgetting Dadli's headscarf, Richardson’s hat, Saggese’s shirt and Gaynor’s black attire, all added a welcome visual dimension to this cool, accomplished collective.

Indeed, I felt transported in time and place listening to the beats and grooves of Africa, with a 21st Century twist. Osibisa cannot fail to uplift your soul. A multicultural musical cocktail. Drink in their vibe, sound and enjoy!

Review and Photos: Denise Lester