A few years ago, Arnaud “Onra” Bernard traveled to his father’s birthplace, Vietnam, and after spending some time at a Vietnamese orphanage, he was inspired to create music with a difference. The Parisian producer incorporated Chinese symphonies and J Dilla infused beats where the end result was Chinoiseries, a perfect blend of Asian and contemporary sounds. He is now known for traveling the world researching native sounds to create something new or simply revisiting its beauty.
Now tapping into the soul grooves of the 80s, his latest EP Long Distance is somewhat of a revival. While the sound is one we’ve heard before, it’s wonderful to listen to an era whose formation is somewhat lost. Enlisting the talent of Oliver DaySoul for the title tune “Long Distance,” will make you want to dig into your own collection for some Curtis Hairston, Light of the World, Steve Arrington (who has new music coming soon with DâM-FunK!), and the like. Long Distance includes a cover of SOS Band‘s “High Hopes,” where Onra keeps the song close to its original form using the Missouri native singer, Reggie B.
Long Distance is an appreciation of an era that was filled with party anthems that included heavy laid funk grooves, synths, and soulful vocals, with musical changes capable of changing your dance moves. Being that we all know “High Hopes,” check out “Long Distance” and let me know what you think.
Long Distance feat. Oliver DaySoul
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Long Distance is available on iTunes; get yourself a copy!
Back in 2007, Onra visited his father’s homeland, Vietnam and was inspired by their music. He incorporated Chinese symphonies and J Dilla-esque beats and came up with the collection Chinoiseries. Now with Chinoiseries Pt. 2, he continues on his quest to unearth Chinese gems and mix them to hip hop, future soul, and electronic sounds. Very much looking forward to hearing the full project, which hits stores on All City Records, November 15.
