“Obasi Akoto IS A BADASS. Every once in a while a project comes in that just blows me away. This
(All Over The Map) was the 2016 project. It is an amazing record on so many levels. It moved me.”
Mark Wilder, Sony Music recording engineer
“Obasi Akoto, like an alchemist, brews all the ingredients together and concocts listening universes that are both intellectually stimulating and musically pleasing, for both specialized and secular ears” Fredric Cardin, ICI Musique
Obasi Akoto is a highly respected double bass player whose extensive experience includes touring and recording with legends such as drummer Elvin Jones and pianist Cyrus Chestnut — including on Chestnut’s Atlantic recordings The Dark Before the Dawn and Earth Stories. He has performed with a remarkable array of jazz luminaries, from Wynton Marsalis, James Carter, Regina Carter, Abbey Lincoln, and Stefon Harris to Miguel Zenón and Joe Lovano, establishing himself as a consummate sideman and creative force on the bandstand.
In addition to his work as a performer, Akoto is an accomplished composer and orchestrator. His first full-length orchestral recording, All Over the Map, features his own compositions and includes contributions from longtime friend and collaborator Warren Wolf on vibraphone — a recording described as “impassioned and transformative” that highlights his depth as a musical architect.
After a distinguished tenure as Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Manitoba, Akoto returned to full-time performance, leading creative ensembles and residencies throughout the Baltimore–Washington region. His musical vision blends the profound traditions of jazz with contemporary improvisational energy, making him a vital presence in today’s jazz landscape.
Other notable collaborations include recordings and performances with: Sean Jones, Tim Green, Aaron Goldberg, Larnell Lewis, Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Barron, Stefon Harris, Mulgrew Miller, James Carter, Joe Lovano, Abbey Lincoln, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kathleen Battle, Benny Green, Jacky Terrason, Eddie Henderson, Wycliffe Gordon, Wes “Warm Daddy” Anderson, Miguel Zenon, Avishai Cohen, Lester Bowie, John Hicks, Steve Turre, Lewis Nash, Jimmy Green, George Colligan, Jon Gordon, Herlin Riley, Anat Cohen, Regina Carter, Greg Tardy, Houston Person, Marcus Printup, Joel Ross and Terreon Gully.
SPARX! Is an exceptional group of seasoned professionals whose collective talent transcends boundaries. This ensemble is the culmination of countless performances, where the paths of the musicians intersected, creating and undeniable chemistry and cohesion.
Musicians, like storytellers, thrive in tribes, with their reputations spreading through word of mouth. The members of SPARX! Having collaborated with each other in various configurations and combinations over the years, the core members: Sean Jones on trumpet, Warren Wolf on vibes, Tim Green on alto sax, Obasi Akoto on bass, and have converged to create this exciting new creative collective called SPARX!
Individually and collectively, they embody the very essence of virtuosity, making them not only exceptional performers, but each other’s favorite collaborators. The notion of this specific group of musicians working together as a concentrated effort was a natural evolution of their shared passion. As they embark on this journey, they have begun meticulously curating repertoire that will astound audiences with it’s depth and range
At the heart of SPARX lies the visionary genius of Obasi Akoto. As the band's leader and composer, Akoto is the driving force behind the compelling music that ignites their performances. His compositions embody an explosive blend of innovation, sophistication, beauty and creativity. Obasi's compositions serve as the foundation upon which SPARX builds their dynamic sound.
The buzz surrounding SPARX! Quickly reached the ears of NEA Jazz Master and Artistic Director of Keystone Korner in Baltimore, MD, Todd Barkan whose excitement for the band is palpable. Todd expressed an earnest desire to record and present the groups debut performance - The opportunity was embraced setting the stage for an explosive debut.
Since then SPARX! has graced the stage at The Zinc Bar in New York as a Quintet to captivated sold out crowd. Joseph Baldassare, owner and operator of The Zinc Bar is thrilled to be part of this burgeoning new group who he feels is the next big thing in the jazz world and wants to do whatever he can to spread the word about SPARX!
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the birth of a brand new musical phenomenon. Join us as we unravel the magic of SPARX!, where talents converge, boundaries dissolve, and unforgettable journeys begin!
Every Tuesday!
Obasi Akoto leads us in world-class performances beginning at 7pm, most Tuesdays
. Surround yourself with great company, soul lifting music, and wonderful food!
"A jazz renaissance is happening right here and right now at Keystone Korner." - Obasi Akoto
Free admission, unless otherwise indicated. Reservations are required. Two item food & beverage minimum.
