ODD OKODDO is a Kenyan/German duo consisting of Olith Ratego and Sven Kacirek.
The two artists met in Kenya, about a decade ago, when Sven Kacirek was recording his “Kenya Sessions”, an album that put Kacirek on the map of outernational producers. It was reviewed as a “World Music 2.0” (de:bug magazine), whose “fascination endures” (The Wire). Olith Ratego also made an appearance on the “Kenya Sessions”, on the track “Too Good To Be True”.
The duo formed the project ODD OKODDO in 2018, with the two musicians joining their various talents which dovetail in perfection. Ratego writes the lyrics and vocal melodies while Kacirek composes, records and produces the arrangements of all nine songs on AUMA. They create a colourful, dynamic sound which is defined by both Ratego’s enormous vocal compass and range of timbres as well as Kacirek’s outstanding skills as a sensitive percussionist.
Olith Ratego sings in a musical style called “dodo”, which originates from the shores of Lake Victoria in Kenya, high in pitch and soulfully expressive. He refers to his music as “dodo blues”. His lyrics touch upon the topics of politics, family and of course: love. As a skilled luthier, Ratego builds his instruments himself, like the… more
released October 18, 2019
All compositions by Olith Ratego & Sven Kacirek.
All lyrics written by Olith Ratego.
Arranged and produced by Sven Kacirek.
Vocal recordings by Steve Kivutia at Ketebul Studio.
Artwork by Ventral Is Golden.
Cover Photo by Martin Drix Muyeshi.
Sven Kacirek would like to thank Tabu Osusa and Evelyne Mocha Nyokangi.
Olith Ratego would like to thank Lucy Ilado.
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