Obrador. Blink Samba / Willow.

Obrador originated from Olympia the capital state of Washington.  A multifaceted group that consisted of many members over the years. They were together from 1976-2006 and was led by band leader Michael Moore. The members were, Steven Bentley ~ Drums, Connie Bunyer ~ Clarinet, Guitar, Vocals, Paul Hjelm ~ Guitar, Bass, Trap Drums, Piano, Steven Luceno ~ Bass, Guitar, Michael Moore ~ Keyboards, Michael Olson ~ Percussion, James Pribbenow ~ Saxophone, Vincent Soluna ~ Sax, Vincent Soluna ~ Sax

Tom Russell ~ Sax, Flute and Walter Thomas Russell ~ Flute, Saxophone, Clarinet, Piano, Guitar.

They recorded 5 albums over the period of 30 years.  One track of which “Willow” you will find tucked on the B side of this lovely new release. We wanted you Kats to have great value for money and pack the record with two stone wall Dingwall style killer recordings. 

The A side “Blink Samba” was recorded at Russian Hill Studios San Francisco in July 1983,  after the group made the long journey down from Olympia and back to record a whole Lp that has lay unissued since 2023 only getting a digital release. We stumbled across the tracks whilst doing some research and was blown away.  A few chats with member Michael Olson and we knew these had to be on vinyl.  They are pure fire jazz with a slightly latin Esq vibe. We can almost see the sweat dripping from the Jazz dancers as they cascade to the rhythm of the percussion “Blink Samba”

Flip it over whilst the floor is still rocking to the track “Willow”  Unlike “Blink Samba’s opening percussion this one kicks in straight away with a rasping baseline.  You hold on to the bars like you been strapped into to a rollercoaster and get ready for the ride.

A Blink Samba 4:42

B Willow 4:46