To add your comments to the "Press" page regarding Gemini Soul "Live," or CD experiences, please e-mail pearljazz@excite.com.
HEAR WHAT CRITICS ARE SAYING...(117 Comments/Reviews as of 6.13.08)

* NEW - RE: Gemini Soul's performance at the 38th Annual Burlingame Art in the Park Festival on June 8, 2008...Just a quick message to say another thanks for your performance...It was fantastic! ~ Stacey Poncia (City of Burlingame - Parks and Recreation Department - June 2008)

* NEW - RE: Gemini Soul's performance at De Anza College - Private Event on June 6, 2008...I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated the music you provided for our private event. Absolutely Wonderful! You are so talented. Thank you for making a special occasion a little more special. ~ Patricia Fifield (De Anza College - June 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...You guys are truly outstanding musicians...Best wishes and good luck. I know I'll be seeing you on the jazz charts! ~ Mark Reed (The Townhouse Cocktail Lounge - May 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "Live : The Liquid Soul Tour"...I get quite a bit of material to review from Kari Gaffney at Kari-On Productions. Even though just about all of the albums Kari sends me are good, a few really stand out. One such album is from a group known as Gemini Soul. Gemini Soul provides an eclectic mix of jazz, soul and fusion that fans just eat up..."Live : The Liquid Soul Tour" is one great jazz fusion and soul album...Gemini Soul has included the song "Fever" on this album. And I'm glad they did. There is some very, very good bass. And the piano and percussion is excellent as well..."Pandora's Boxx - 07 Remix" has some interesting fusion and alt jazz movements. Once the groove sets in, you get a toe tapping, hip swaying beat...I had never heard of Gemini Soul before receiving this album. But I am now a fan for life. Their mix of jazz, fusion and soul is not to be missed. ~ Bruce Von Stiers (www.bvsreviews.com - May 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Cyber Jazz album exudes mystic allure...Gemini Soul have dropped their latest innovation this year, "The Nefertiti Xperience," to etch their own name upon the same canon. Led by bassist Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele, the group enthusiastically endorses their brand as "Cyber Jazz," which reveals their intentions to groove their way into the future, not to be confused with a novel throwback act to the progenitors of the 70's. Gemini Soul acknowledges the debt they owe to Herbie Hancock's landmark "Head Hunters" in press releases, which remains a staple to jazz-funk fusioners everywhere. It's a prominent influence which lends Gemini Soul the groundwork, if not the direction of the sonic rhythms of "Nefertiti." That's not to say that the album won't take you to places you've never been, as the disc will hook you from the opener of "Sun Goddess" and will certainly cause you all sorts of mystical lunar revelations. While they are not quite Hancock and they are not quite Coltrane, Ajamu Akinyele's group can certainly hold their own. It's hard not to think that "The Nefertiti Xperience" isn't also some sort of homage to the eccentric avant-garde composer Sun Ra, whose "Ark-estra" blazed the way for exploration of solar and Egyptian themes as far back as the 50's. But that Gemini Soul is operating on a whole different level is evident, and the easily transcendent "Cyber Jazz" they champion is thread worthy of mental departure, for the listener as well as the explorers of the genre. ~ Nate Johnson (The Tempest / Solano Community College - May 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...There are some strong sounding tracks and solid grooves on the album. The group sounds like they have a natural feel for each other and a history of playing together at the same time. ~ Drew Palmer (The Rosebud Agency - May 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Within the last year or two, the name Gemini Soul kept resurfacing in my travels around the Internet. Moreover, as usual my appetite for fresh music kept redirecting my path like a boomerang back to this group. At this point, it was inevitable as I was drawn to the title of their new recording called "The Nefertiti Xperience."...to my surprise just recently "The Nefertiti Xperience" arrived in my mailbox. As always, much like a kid in the toy store with new music in hand, I couldn't wait to take this jewel for the first spin. As I pushed the play button on the disc player the music instantly took flight, I found myself engrossed in "Sun Goddess" the opening track. As leader and multi-faceted virtuoso Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele and his band accurately executes with grace a host of impressive chops and interplay by this quartet; it contains lots of bonafide soulful music and is filled with passion called "Cyber Jazz." Word is out, at least for those of us that didn't know the West Coast jazz scene is blazing with an abundant of unsung heroes. Gemini Soul based out of San Francisco steps out by unleashing a serious attitude with lots of raw and augmented grooves that's pleasing even to the most discriminating music lover. With each note, beat, and sonic groove Gemini Soul serves up a delectable dish of slowly brewed jams like the infectious "River Nile." It's shaken, tweaked, and well stirred as keyboardist Jon O' Bergh works the Rhodes as he takes you on a satisfying groovescape. In the album liner notes, Andre pays homage to his musical inspirations Grammy Award Winner Herbie Hancock and funk bassist extraordinaire MeShell Ndegeocello and Marcus Miller. Andre's compositional style is comprised of adventurous funk tones wrapped with interesting harmonics, flexible shapes and unadulterated melodic phrasings that exceeds most in this genre. Yes, the music of Gemini Soul is reason to celebrate its contagious funk-fueled seventies fusion vibe; even if it isn't your typical dose of contemporary jazz however, it's a refreshing palette of tasty music with plenty of substance. Get this, there are a dozen enjoyable tracks in store for you on "The Nefertiti Xperience." Fortunately, it's projects like this that demonstrates to indie artists that there's hope in the future for recording music they love as it appears Gemini Soul has struck gold with this gem, which takes you on an enterprising journey into "Cyber Jazz." ~ J. Desmond (The Urban Music Scene - April 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Smooth cyber jazz quartet Gemini Soul has released their fourth studio album The Nefertiti Xperience. Produced, arranged and composed by the band's frontman and bass guitarist Andre Ajamu Akinyele, the album is what Andre Ajamu Akinyele describes as cyber-jazz, creating a blend of jazz/funk fusion fringed by electronic elements. Those electronic elements form squiggly lines in tracks like "Serpent's Tongue" and "Oliver Jones" which bare a resemblance to Herbie Hancock's "Ingenuity." In the case of Gemini Soul, the concepts are inspired by the Sun Goddess, Queen Nefertiti and show influences of Hancock's fusion album "Head Hunters," the music of vocalist/bassist MeShell Ndegeocello, singer Sade, trumpeter/composer Miles Davis and bassists Marcus Miller and Stanley Clarke. Though Gemini Soul pride themselves on their funk-jazz fusion sound, their silky smooth jazz lines cannot be overlooked. Tracks like "Compared To What" and "Sphinx" weave silky webs of lounging jazz textures with the curling motions of keyboardist Jon O'Bergh fortified by the gentle pivots of bassist Andre Ajamu Akinyele and the lamina threads of percussionist Andrew Foster and drummer Alex Marks. The music wraps the listener in beautifully beaded tones and synchronized movements that glide in blissful decibels. The serenity of Gemini Soul's music produces muffled amalgams that move to a rhythmic Nubian-like dance displaying freedom and grace like in "Sun Goddess." The cool rhythmic slides of "River Nile" and "The Eye Of Horus" demonstrate the band's ability to keep the music tranquil while supplementing it with delicate sprigs and nuances that beautify the piece. Smooth buttery lines stream through "Nefertiti's Theme," the title track and "Vertigo" which provide a cozy nightclub atmospheric, while the curvy bass grooves of "Chance To Grow" make its lower registers swell with elegant pronouncing. The keyboard driven "Radical" is a vast release of energy and dynamic spreads and the cool jazz struts of "Black Venus" keep the mix feeling heady.  As always, San Francisco's Gemini Soul has music that is modern-eclectic smooth jazz funk. Their latest release The Nefertiti Xperience produces comfortable instrument harmonies beaded by electronic improvisations. Their movements show traditional sensibilities and forward-thinking artistry. Their music defines a burgeoning group of jazz musicians who haven't reached their peak but are enjoying their ascent. With influences of smooth jazz, funk, and electronic factions, the culmination is a new wave of jazz music for audiences to experience. ~ Susan Frances (www.jazzreview.com - April 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Gemini Soul has put together a winner with this new recording. Rooted in the funk and fusion of the 1970s, "The Nefertiti Xperience" contains thirteen compositions, all but two by bassist and bandleader Andre Ajamu Akinyele.  Akinyele is joined by Andrew Foster on percussion, Alex Marks on drums, and Jon O'Bergh on keyboards. And when I say "joined," I mean that this band is playing, thinking, and listening as one unit. The quieter passages, like O'Bergh's piano solo in "Nefertiti's Theme," are every bit as intense and solid as the backbeat of "Sun Goddess," with its basslines alternating between popping and some notes that sound like they were dripping out of the amplifier, like ice cream melting in the sun. There is a definite sonic connection with Herbie Hancock's "Headhunters" period, not in terms of synthesizer sounds and techniques but in the band's above-mentioned approach to its music. Listen again to "Headhunters" and you will hear one TIGHT band. Akinyele, Foster, Marks, and O'Bergh seem to have learned one thing about the first wave of fusion groups, particularly Return to Forever, Weather Report, and The Mahavishnu Orchestra: sustained focus on chops gets old fast. Gemini Soul relies on its compositions for "The Nefertiti Xperience," ones refreshingly noodle-free with a lot of room for musical exploration during a live setting. I would expect extended soloing from all four members at gigs. And LOTS of funk. ~ Dave Tilton (Listen & Be Heard Weekly - March 12-19, 2008 Volume 5, Issue 11)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Just like other music genres have their own category, Cyber Jazz will soon be a category of its own because the music is universal and celebrates all styles of jazz. Listen, if you haven't experienced Cyber Jazz...Gemini Soul's latest CD "The Nefertiti Xperience" is the CD for you! Gemini Soul's other CD's are great, but this one stands out with tracks like "Radical," "The Eye of Horus," "Black Venus," "Serpent's Tongue," "Oliver Jones," "Compared To What," and "Sphinx"...this CD is complete. It hasn't left my CD player since I received it. Cyber Jazz is the future yall! ~ Sabrina Jones (February 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Jazz doesn't get much funkier...Gemini Soul's smooth, groovy fusion "Cyber Jazz" rests on the popin' fingers of bandleader and bass-master Andre Ajamu Akinyele. ~ Nate Seltenrich (East Bay Express - February 2008)

* Gemini Soul's "The Nefertiti Xperience"...Gemini Soul has been drawing some rave reviews for its mix of jazz and funk, which should appeal to those who admire Herbie Hanock's Headhunters. ~ Jim Harrington (Oakland Tribune/Contra Costa Times)

* Gemini Soul's "Live : The Liquid Soul Tour"...Gemini Soul is a jazz/soul band, that I swear sounds like they are straight out of the 70's. However, they are modern and masters at their respective instruments...The bass playing is smooth and graceful weaving intricate melodies with nimble key work of the keyboardist. Keeping it all together and supplying a nice smooth base is the percussionist. I really enjoyed listening to them after I had an especially hard day at work...

* Gemini Soul's "Live : The Liquid Soul Tour"...Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele, Jon O'Bergh and Andrew Foster are, together, Gemini Soul. With their album 'The Liquid Soul Tour', which was recorded live at various venues during April of 2007, they have produced a groove driven, retro tinged, piece of work that shuns current contemporary jazz formula in favour of something altogether edgier. With the bass of Akinyele often evoking images of Stanley Clarke, some other influences that the trio share are crystallized in the form of Sade's "Hang On To Your Love," which serves as an ideal vehicle for the bands tight brand of jazz funk, and with Dave Brubeck's "Take 5." Actually Gemini Soul take a little longer than "5," eight whole minutes in fact, to expand their special interpretation of this enduring classic and, in doing so, demonstrate a penchant for allowing a track to build over time.

The rhythmically rich "Gypsy" is a seven minute delight while the band takes a further minute to develop the intricate "Pandora's Boxx." Best of all in this respect is a knockout nine minutes worth of all the rhythm and groove you will ever need in the shape of the breathtaking "Supernova." Throughout, with Foster's percussion never anything short of significant, its all about the vibe and this is particularly so with the sparse and rhythmic "Ancestor's Dub." The bands stunning take on the familiar "Fever" sits nicely with the claustrophobic intensity of "Lili." It's a cut that builds then build some more and proves that great jazz funk doesn't need to be of the 'in your face' variety. The beauty of Gemini Soul is that they always remain totally in control and this enables them bestow great sensitivity on the music that they play. They do this to perfection with the jazzy and accessible "Winter" that beautifully fuses the contemporary with the classic and again for "Goodbye" which, although mellow, is nevertheless underpinned by a significant beat. "In The Mood" is even more tranquil and, with hugely attractive keys from O'Bergh, is arguably the albums standout track yet right there with it is the warm and comforting "Lake Merritt." This is a tune that "out Brubecks" Brubeck' and is in every respect a wonderful show case for the bands work.

As contemporary jazz seeks a new direction 'The Liquid Soul Tour' may well signpost the way. Since the recording of the album Gemini Soul have added drummer Alex Marks to the line-up and are certainly set to go from strength to strength.

* Gemini Soul's "Live : The Liquid Soul Tour"...These guys have a sweet jazzy funk that reminds us of Ramsey Lewis on the opener "Gypsy." Bassist Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele plucks, and walks his bass generating a lot of sizzle and pop...All of the songs have a cool swagger especially "LiLi," "Ancestor's Dub" and "In The Mood." These tunes will get your head bobbing and feet patting to their groove!

* Gemini Soul's "The Liquid Soul Tour" is jazz for fans of eclectic modern jazz fused with various elements of soul, pop and strippeed - down funk. With this effort, the San Francisco quartet flexes with the best of their live shows...For the non-jazz audience,
The Liquid Soul Tour offers little more than a pleasant background. In fact, the slower tracks focus so much on melody...When Gemini Soul decides to let loose and pick up the tempo (i.e. opening track, "Gypsy"), the musicians' desired groove shines. ~
www.apequake.com (December 2007)

* RE: Gemini Soul's "Liquid Soul Tour:"  The jazz quartet Gemini Soul describes their music as cyber-jazz because of their symbiotic combination of analog sounds and electronic programming.  But after listening to their latest release Live: The Liquid Soul Tour, their music is solid smooth jazz through and through with episodes of harmonizing improvisations that may remind you of the chemical conflagrations made by Under The Lake, The Rippingtons and Spyro Gyra. You fall into Gemini Soul's melodic webs immediately and may never want to leave. The band seduces you with a casual drift rolling through their rhythms and dulcet notes that are placidly corded and gently layered. The coasting motions of keyboardist Jon O'Bergh and percussionist Andrew Foster are accented by the flexing motions of bassist Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele and drummer Alex Marks. Together, they make beautiful music...One of the band's more cyber-jazz induced cocktails is the number
"Ancestor's Dub" with a soul-funk bass line wrapped in striking electronica and softly sprinkled keyboard ringlets. The instrument parts are magnetically connected providing halcyon tones, seraphic verses and smooth jazz decors that surround the listener in a very relaxing and stress-free setting. You can choose any track from the album and they will all make you feel this way, putting you in a serenely muffed stratosphere. The songs have a melodic consistency which can best describe them as stress-free...The songs show an ease of freedom that comes from having a free-thinking mind and lifestyle...Gemini Soul put together an album that vibrates to
Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of having the freedom to move your body and mind where you want to take them. For Gemini Soul, they use their freedom to make beautiful music. Their latest release Live: The Liquid Soul Tour makes a nice addition to their evolving repertoire, which also includes a holiday CD entitled A Cyber-Jazz Holiday. Between you and me, Gemini Soul has the liquid fluidity of smooth jazz from note to note. ~ Susan Frances (JazzReview - December 2007)

* RE: Gemini Soul's "Liquid Soul Tour"...With the release of four independently released CDs between 2005 and 2007, the Bay Area quartet quickly established a new, rootsy yet forward thinking sound that blends traditional, free spirited jazz/fusion with an electronic element called "Cyber Jazz." Their influences were obvious. Bassist Andre Ajamu Akinyele vibed on Stanley Clarke and Me'Shell Ndegeocello. Multi-faceted keyboardist Jon O'Bergh drew from the progressive funk fusion of Herbie Hancock and somewhere floating in and around the mix was the pop-funk jazz spirit of Miles Davis. This live date--a mix of hard thumping, bass driven jazz and sensual old-school Rhodes-tinged hypnotic light funk--reflected the band's typical set list that included tracks from its 2007 Liquid Soul release and other originals from Akinyele's 2006 double solo CD Black Magic: The Cyber Jazz Experience. In the midst of the melodic and trippy moodiness and traditional be-bop flavored originals like "Winter," there's the very accessible, smooth jazz oriented cover of Sade's "Hang On To Your Love" and exciting, thumping soul-jazz twists on "Fever" and "Take Five." True to its name, Gemini Soul has two faces, one steped in old school R&B, one in contemporary jazz, and that made for a fascinating listening experience for fans of either genre tired of the same old thing. ~ Jonathan Widran (All Music Guide [AMG] - November 2007)-

* RE: Gemini Soul's "Liquid Soul Tour"...Gemini Soul takes jazz and injects it with a heavy, rhythmic dose of funk. Bass player Andre Marcel Ajamu Akinyele's four-string coils itself around the steady snare percussion with a springing and throbbing reminiscent of MeShell Ndegeocello's low-end jams on softer songs like "Gypsy" and "Hang On To Your Love," while uptempo songs like "LiLi" and "Pandora's Boxx (Remix)" see the bass lines take on a Bootsy Collins-esque groove. There are hints of a classic R&B sound with a psychedelic edge, too, on "Supernova (Remix)"...The album was recorded live, giving the songs an organic feel lacking in most studio releases and provides further proof that Gemini Soul is jazz with a pulse, as opposed to a bunch of musicians giving standard songs the ol' studio-clean sheen.

* RE: Gemini Soul's "Liquid Soul Tour"...this funky jazz crew has it down right...they have infectious enough grooves that you will find them irresistible...Up there with the creme of what the 70's vibe had to offer, this is a fusion crew that likes to spread the party and has an invite out for you. ~ Chris Spector (Midwest Records Volume 30/Number 341 - October 2007)

* As someone who calls MeShell Ndegeocello and Stanley Clarke influences, Andre Ajamu Akinyele knows what it takes to get the groove going, and that's just what he and the rest of Gemini Soul do on "The Liquid Soul Tour," an audio document of what they are like on stage. Fans of the electric bass will definitely love this album...What I like about albums like these is that the expectation in jazz is to hear a full band...In original songs like "Gypsy," "LiLi," and "Winter" he opens himself up and just has the groove take him to all pockets, and you can imagine being in a cramped jazz club and not caring if the smoke messes up your sinuses. Ajamu Akinyele can play, and you hear how the crowd reacts when they are audibly satisfied. Perhaps you'll feel that way too! ~ John Book (Music for America - Music and Other Social Causes - October 2007)

* RE: The Liquid Soul Tour...Fine CD here, it comes off as "jazz retro"...lil' snatches of Ramsey Lewis, the feel of Stanley Clarke & even some Funkadelics in there somewhere. Gemini Soul are tight & definitely together! Great bass driven jazz...For a tune that will take you in many different directions you'll want to check out "Supernova" (#11) for sure; lots of finger poppin' bass lines, with nice piano lines after the intro...the live performance sections were recorded well & will stick to your ears! A good all-round jazz experience that gets a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from us! ~ Improvisjazzation Nation (December 2007, Issue #78)

* Thank you, thank you for Gemini Soul's "The Liquid Soul Tour" CD...Great music - I'm listening to "Take Five"...WOW! This will immediately be added to our "New Arrivals" list for our programmers for airplay.  ~ Sue Few (KRBS-LP 107.1 FM Oroville, CA)

* Gemini Soul delivers laidback and mellow tunes.  ~ Monterey County Weekly

* You really did an awesome job on your new CD!  ~ Rachelle Bivins (ABYSS Jazz Magazine)

* The Tri-Valley has a new farmers market and it rocks...live music, such as funky jazz from the group Gemini Soul, keeps the atmosphere light.  ~ Kathryn Jessup (Diablo Magazine - July 2007 Issue)

* Ajamu is one FUNKY bass player!  ~ Pete Escovedo (Latin/Jazz Percussionist)

* You guys were FANTASTIC Saturday & Sunday at the Monterey Bay Spring Festival, and I'm enjoying the CD's immensely! I will definitely pass the word along about your upbeat, fabulous fusion music. I am, as my friends say, a "walking advertisement" for what I love in life. Thank you so much for helping to make this weekend one of the best ever!  ~ Kelly Potter

* RE: Liquid Soul...Ask musicians to put their unique style into words and they'll likely snort and warn earnestly about the danger of pigeonholing. Gemini Soul has no such problem. The band wants you to pigeonhole it as "Cyber Jazz," what it calls a combination of smooth jazz - funk fusion...Surprise, surprise. Gemini Soul, an appropriately "soulful" unit led by bassist Ajamu Akinyele and keyboardist Jon O'Bergh, is a mellow band that fits nicely into some of your higher-priced lounges in San Francisco, where the group is based...O'Bergh's keys are best when conjuring mellow sunsets a la Joe Sample. Their original material is choice, as are covers of Sade's "Kiss of Life" and "Hang On to Your Love." They also subdue Dave Brubeck's "Take Five," Peggy Lee's "Fever" and Stanley Clarke's "Yesterday Princess." Gemini Soul maintains a dreamy, classy sound throughout 13 songs and should be praised for not throwing in a crazy upbeat tune to announce its funk cred. A superb, mellow mood rules this tasty project.  ~ Brian Soergel (www.jazztimes.com - May 2007)

* Liquid Soul presents a conceptually innovative form of fusion not entirely unlike some of Hancock's and Miles' material. The 7-minute subtly funky opening track "Gypsy" is very reminiscent of Joe Sample's classic "Hippies On A Corner." One definitely takes notice of the very competent piano work provided by Ajamu Akinyele's right-hand man Jon O'Bergh. O'Bergh offers more of his tasteful piano flavorings on the title track "Liquid Soul" and follows with a colorful interpretation of the classic "Fever" with smooth contributions from Ajamu Akinyele's funky bass stylings. I also enjoyed Gemini Soul's covers of Sade's "Kiss of Life" and "Hang On To Your Love," which are very much in keeping with the album's overall flavor. I made note of Ajamu Akinyele's reference here to being compared to the laid back grooves of Marcus Miller...I must admit that on cuts like "Evolution Part 2" and the aforementioned "Hang On To Your Love," Ajamu Akinyele sports a note worthy dose of nicely concocted funk. Gemini Soul's handling of Brubeck's "Take Five" is also worthy of an appreciative smile. With that said, this album is more of a showcase for O'Bergh's handsome, rather pillowy soft piano stylings than it is an Ajamu Akinyele adventure in major funk fusion, as was so clearly displayed in Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience, which I find to be a better production and "Alive!" If mellow, solidly structured, and fluid piano with a touch of funk bass in good measure is what you're after, Liquid Soul could be a delightful listen.  ~ Ronald Jackson (JazzReview.com April 2007)

* Liquid Soul will immediately be listed in KRBS's "New Arrivals" listing for our programmers for airplay. KRBS 107.1 FM has a lot of jazz listeners, so we're very pleased.  ~ Sue Few (KRBS; Oroville, CA)

* RE: Supernova...A Breath of Fresh Air! Thank you for giving us something above the ordinary. If you like MeShell Ndegeocello or Sade you will definitely dig Gemini Soul's Ajamu Akinyele. This is the feel good stuff!  ~ San Jose Song Bird

* RE: Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience...Local Magic! These guys are native to San Francisco and perform all over the city. Great Cyber Jazz Album!
~ San Jose Song Bird

* I will be playing a track from your new CD Liquid Soul on my Discovery Show through the week of March 19, 2007; after that the CD will be placed in our library and played again on future programs.  ~ Mike Smith (SkyJazz Internet Radio Ontario, Canada)

* A very well-rounded and atmospherically dense CD with top production quality. We're happy to add a couple of tracks to our active playlist from your new CD Liquid Soul. Great Stuff!  ~ Matthias Kirsch (Jazz Radio 101.9 Berlin, Germany)

* Really great music!  ~ Harv (San Ramon Farmers Market)

* This is just a note to let you know how much I really enjoyed your performance. I can tell that you really feel and enjoy your music, it was displayed by the energy that filled the room at the View Lounge at The Marriott Hotel in February 2007. I purchased your two CD's, Liquid Soul & Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience and they are both good, but not as good as your "Live" performances...your performance was GREAT, and when we left, I was full of energy, even though it was after midnight, and that's good for me! I really enjoyed your performance and hope you come to perform in Dallas at the Brooklyn Jazz Cafe. Keep up the good work, you can only go higher.
~ Shedaria (Dallas, TX)

* RE: Liquid Soul CD...Soft & Laid Back!  ~ Patrick Van de Wiele (Keys & Chords)

* RE: Liquid Soul CD...There are two sides to every story, especially when we are relaying the tale of a Gemini. The two sides to the local duo Gemini Soul are jazz and funk. My guess is that you'll enjoy both elements equally if you decide to check out one of the act's upcoming gigs...Like the band itself, the disc is a hybrid of musical styles and delivers a wide range of compositions. There are some originals, as well as intriguing takes on such standards as "Fever" and "Take Five." The pair also covers newer material such as Stanley Clarke's "Yesterday Princess" and Sade's "Kiss of Life." If that sounds appealing to you - and IT SHOULD - check out "Liquid Soul"...In concert, Gemini Soul has drawn comparisons to everyone from Sade and MeShell Ndegeocello to Herbie Hancock and Miles Davis. That's an amazingly broad sound spectrum, but one that helps the band achieve its musical mission...

* RE: Liquid Soul CD...I'm a Host/DJ with CKMN 96.5 FM in Rimouski, Quebec Canada and host the jazz radio show "Jazz dans la nuit." I've read good reviews from allaboutjazz.com about your new CD Liquid Soul. I'm very interested in playing your new CD Liquid Soul on my jazz radio show. I contribute to the Canadian Jazz Chart.
~ Louis Brunet (CKMN 96.5 FM Canada)

* RE: Liquid Soul CD...Food for the soul, smooth like velvet! If you've never experienced cyber-jazz, Gemini Soul is the group to check out. Definitely a must have for your holiday collection.  ~ San Jose Song Bird

* Thank you for your music, I'm truly grateful and have added "Kiss of Life," "Yesterday Princess," and "Take Five," from your CD "Liquid Soul" and "The Look of Love" from your CD "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience - The Gold Edition" to my radio show "Radio Koszalin" here in Poland. Your music is well received by my listerners. ~ Sylwester Podgorski (Radio Koszalin Poland)

* Really great work! Everytime I'm looking for quality new material in the smooth jazz...scene, it's a pleasure to support names outside the "big label" business.
~ Harry Melchior (SmoothVibes.com)

* RE: Liquid Soul CD...Gemini Soul have done it again. Another wonderful installment of cyberjazz which does nothing to sully the reputation of previous CDs. An all round more moving sound than Black Magic or Supernova and perhaps even more chillaxing if that is at all possible. A fantastic piece of work.  ~ Andrew Pipe

* RE: Supernova CD...this is sexy!! My word, when i opened this package i was so excited, my god, i placed it in to my pc and took in the sheer brilliance. This is the best cd I've ever purchased, on a par with the cyber jazz experience of course. Ajamu is the man.  ~ Ernest de la Funk

* While researching music and video on the Internet for my Internet radio program and music television show, I came across the music of Ajamu Akinyele; I must admit that I had not been exposed to his music. After hearing a few tracks from "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience," I was very impressed. If available, I would like to feature Ajamu Akinyele's music on "The Digital Coffee Cafe" and "The Spot."
~ Eric P. Northern/D.J. Enormix (The Digital Coffee Cafe - www.IM4Radio.com)

* Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience is a most wonderful CD from beginning to end. I am captivated by the ambience of Pandora's Boxx and cannot control myself when listening to the subtle love present in Barbarella...Basically this album is the most awesome musical experience i have ever been involved in. Thank you Gemini Soul and Ajamu Akinyele especially. Your music will continue to inspire me in the coming months and i hope you continue with your unique style of jazz in another installment of your music soon. You have got something quite amazing here. Yours in friendship,  ~ Lord Andrew J Pipeworthy

* We enjoy he vibe you both bring to Frescaroma, and we also enjoy you both very much as people. We'd love to have you back again, again, and again!

* It was great to finally meet you, you are awesome!! Let me know when you release your new CD, so we can have you back!
~ Lilly Cortez, Producer - Sacramento & Co. TV Show; NEWS 10/ABC

* Well I don't know much about the cyber jazz experience, but I do know good jazz when I hear it! Ajamu Akinyele...and his partner in crime, keyboardist Jon O'Bergh, do a marvelous job of enveloping one in some incredibly innovative creations...From the opening track, "Pandora's Boxx," which really only sets the stage for more intense (and, in some instances, soothingly mellow) pieces to follow, this CD demands your attention. There are simply too many good pieces to single out each one (although "Black Magic," Crystal Ball," "Spellbound," "Gemini Blues" and the ever-spellbinding Sade classic "Sweetest Taboo" come to mind right off the bat). The CD has everything: keyboards and bass that go from the silky, smooth and enticing to the nasty, funky, I-mean-it cuts like "Gemini Blues"...Oh yeah, this is definitely a CD to quench your aural thirsts...Ah, the immense satisfaction of hearing fresh material such as this makes listening to music all the experience it is intended to be. Get this one!
~ Ronald Jackson; JazzReview.com

* Dude you are so on, and I've been waiting for an artist to swing my way.  There are a lot of new urban jazz artists out there, but you throw the off speed pitch that, if I were a musician I'd be playing.  Lock me in your fan club, I want to know where you'll be playing in Sacramento.  Thank you for being soooo blessed.  ~ A True Fan...Paul

* Gemini Soul Grooves @ FrescaRoma:  Jazz artists Jon O'Bergh & Ajamu Akinyele form Gemini Soul.  On July 8, 2006 the duo put on a smooth "Cyber Jazz" show at FrescaRoma.  The funk/jazz set included Maxwell & Sade covers, and had the crowd both inside & outside of the cafe feeling the music.  Looking for your return in September 2006.  ~ Cosmo (FrescaRoma)

* The music on "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience" is an entrancing combination...Some of the songs, like the title cut, recall the R&B of Anita Baker & Sade, when they ruled the radio and influenced this brand of Instrumental Pop.  Ajamu Akinyele offers the vocals on a few cuts including, "The Look of Love," where his soft voice brings to mind recent singers like Maxwell.  The arrangements and song structures bear the mark of one possessed with creativity and curiosity.
~ Joe Knipes, Jazz Improv Magazine; www.jazzimprov.com

* I'm so glad you were able to make it to perform at the Laurel Village Summer Solstice Music Festival on June 24, 2006.  I know you had a hectic day, and I appreciate the special effort you made to attend.  We will definitely have you back at whatever musical event the Laurel Village Association holds in the future.
~ Mark Baldwin

* We at KNOZ 96.5 FM - Sacramento enjoyed every second of your on-air performance with us.  All of our friends love the CD, and I love it too!  ~ DJ Flo Real (KNOZ 96.5 FM)

* It was great having you guys back in the Fillmore area playing.  We need more of your good music more often.  Each time I see you guys perform, you surprise me at how great you guys sound!  Keep it up, and I'm sure we'll see you playing The Fillmore Venue someday!  ~ William

* Listening to the alluring sound of jazz artist Ajamu Akinyele is outstanding.  If you're looking for an entertaining jazz artist, you should book him today!  Ajamu is the IDEA of jazz.  We loved him at Table 260.  ~ Pleshette (Sacramento Cultural Hub Magazine)

* You guys are the best thing that has happened to The Cannery - Del Monte Square in a long time.  ~ Guy (Crepes A La Carte)

* You gave an "off the hook" performance on WLTV Comcast Cable Channel 26!
~ WLTV

* You guys were awesome at Borders Books & Music - Santana Row!  ~ Matthew

* It's so great to see a "Live" performance displayed with such passion.
~ Anita Lewis (Seattle)

* You guys sounded great!  ~ Sue Lee (Customer Borders Stonestown)

* I'd been waiting for you guys to come to Castro Valley, and finally I got to see and hear some great music.  You guys definitly live up to the hype!  ~ Edison

* You remind me of Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller, and Larry Graham.  Great Music!
~ Jack (Monterey)

* I was staying at the hotel next to Del Monte Square in Fisherman's Wharf and heard beautiful music being played in the courtyard.  I literally had to see who was playing this wonderful music, and it was this young handsome guy named Ajamu Akinyele performing as Gemini Soul with a guy on keyboards.  I sat there during the rest of his show and enjoyed it tremendously.  I bought  both his CD's and I'm truly enjoying them.  Thank you for adding that special moment to my vacation.  I hope you guys make it to the BIG TIME!  ~ Veronica

* This duo proves to be the perfect formula for a winning endeavor. In addition, Jon O'Bergh is truly talented, from his piano playing to his keyboard expertise.
~ Katrina-Kasey Wheeler (JazzReview.com)

* We would love to have you perform at our event. I checked out your website and really enjoyed your music. Your music is beautiful and would be a great addition to our event.  ~ Ling Zou (SF Relay For Life)

* Hello Ajamu, I'm not too sure if you remember me, butI bought a couple of your CD's Friday night on March 31st at Yunece 61 in Sacramento. I have been playing your music at work like there's no tomorrow...and my colleagues love it, Whoo Hoo! But I wanted to say, "Thank you" for the wonderful Cyber Jazz experience you have placed upon me. I found it to be invigorating and refreshing. I feel that Cyber Jazz is music for the entire family to enjoy and I wish you well on your journey to come. Thank you, God Bless, and I'll be buying more CD's like very soon, for some of my family members.
~ Keisha Pierce

* Ajamu Akinyele's music is cutting edge and not your traditional or typical jazz sound.  Ajamu Akinyele is creating a new genre of jazz taking it to the next level, and I'm so glad I'm witnesing the birth of something creative, original, and new!
~ Yunece 61

* Ajamu Akinyele on bass plus Jon O'Bergh on keyboards equals the jazz-fusion band Gemini Soul. Akinyele gets funky with the bass, producing what he describes as "cyber jazz-funk fusion." His jazz fusion is so funky, in fact, music critics have said that he's what you get when Miles Davis meets Prince. Gemini Soul gets down just for the funk of it!  ~ San Diego City Beat

* I'm really diggin' the CD, especially Crystal Ball.  ~ Cecelia

* I'm writing this comment as your performing here at BORDERS - Emeryville on my labtop...you guys are HOT!  You guys brought in this beautiful vibe and your energy reminds me so much of a MeShell Ndegeocello concert, mellow, meaningful, & powerful.  You have such a mixture of songs that you capture every genre.  I'm glad I made it out of the house before it started to rain...and yes, as you said at the beginning of your show " You are about to witness Cyber Jazz" I'm witnessing Cyber Jazz and it's HOT!  ~ Laurie

* Although, you've been compared to Prince, MeShell, and the likes of Miles Davis, you also remind me of Lenny Kravitz, but on bass guitar.  I also overheard a guy telling you that, while purchasing your CD and he is right!  There's this mellow vibe that floats in the air with incredible energy when you perform.  I love it man...keep up the good work.  P.S. We need more real musicianship and artistry within the music business...you're on your way!  ~ Marcus

* Ajamu Akinyele is a great bass player and watching him perform is amazing.  His music puts you in  a trance like state of mind, and once you're there, you're hooked.  I picked up a flier of your upcoming shows and hope to attend one of them in the future.
~ Phil

* Your BORDERS Books and Music performance today in Emeryville was very relaxing with the rain coming down.  I'm looking forward to listening to your CD this evening when I get home.  You guys play like you've been together for years.  Great sound! ~ Ronald

* You guys performed your butts off at BORDERS today.  I was amazed at such energy and musicianship between you both.  I tell you, people better start listening because you truly have the "IT" factor.  I'm surprised you aren't signed by a major label yet.  I'll definitely be at your upcoming shows, and I'll be bringing friends to experience Cyber Jazz!  ~ Nathan

* I haven't heard great jazz music performed "Live" in a long time.  It was a treat to see your show at BORDERS downtown San Francisco.  Great job!   I hope they have you back.  ~ Amy (BORDERS customer)

* We really enjoyed your performance last night at EON Cafe, it was extremely spirited! ~ The Girls

* Since your last performance here at EON Cafe, you guys have grown so much, I am truly impressed!  It was great to have you guys back again!  ~ EON Cafe

* Your beautiful sound was so fine wafting out over the civic center during your performance at the Revival Festival, that i couldn;'t help joining in lightly on the kickdrum.  I appreciate your professionalism and your kindness very much.  I'm sure the organization will be honored to work with you in the future.  Thank you so much and all the best.  ~ Barry

* From our pre-festival party to now, you guys are right on, and true professionals.  Your sound is awesome!  ~ Mesha (IDRISS Stelley Foundation)

* Hi guys, you were amazing, I mean you guys ARE amazing!  Hey you performed two new songs that's not on "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience" called "LiLi" and
"Mi Corazon" at the Coffee Society...when is the new album coming out?  That shit is HOT!  What a great opener.  Hope to see you next time in the Cupertino area.  ~ Ben

* Great show!  I can't thank you enough for being there.  You guys are awesome and very gracious, and we'd love to have you back ANYTIME!  ~ Coffee Society, Cupertino

* We're visiting from out of town and caught Ajamu Akinyele w/ Gemini Soul peforming "Live" at Fisherman's Wharf, and I tell you...my wife and I enjoyed you so much.  Let us know when your heading our direction, we'll be there!  We purchased your CD!
~ Dale & Clarie  

* I was litterally walking through Delmonte Square on my way to a meeting yesterday 2/10/06, and saw you performing "Live".  You're an incredible performer.  When I heard "Barbarella" from your new double CD, I had to purchase a copy.
~ Anthony (A New Fan)

* We received lots of demo CD's for performance consideration, but when I listened to yours and reviewed your press kit; your overall package was professional and your music added that extra something to your press kit.  I'm glad I booked you and got a chance to meet you, and to experience your music "LIVE."  I'll see you back here in May of 2006! ~ George

* Your performance at Panama Bay in Livermore was HOT!  Your energy, your passion, your dedication to your instrument, and your love was absolutely amazing.  We enjoyed it very much.  ~ Linda & Jose

* What an amazing performance last night at The Cannery - Delmonte Square.  Ajamu Akinyele performed material taken from his newest release "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience," and what an experience!  We're delighted to have such a talented and dedicated performer such as yourself.  And, your vocals on "The Look of Love" was absolutely beautiful and set a romantic tone for the audience in attendance.  Your performances here at Delmonte Square & the cyber jazz experience you provide have been excellent!  Keep up the good work.  ~ The S. F. Fisherman's Wharf Community

* Ajamu Akinyele and Jon O'Bergh performing as Gemini Soul at the BRAINWASH CAFE was an experience unto itself.  Ajamu Akinyele escapes into his own world when performing.  And to experience it fully, you as the listener have to accompany him in that world of Cyber Jazz.  When I did, I saw and felt love, passion, and honesty from real talented musicians.  ~ Debra Clark (BRAINWASH CAFE)

* We've been playing your CD "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience" in our venue since you last performed, and lots of people have been asking where they can get it, we direct them to your website!  Can't wait for you to perform here again in February.  P.S. You have a beautiful voice, you should consider singing more often.
~ Lisa (Zephyr Cafe)

* Great Performance at the Zephyr Cafe.  The poster of the album cover behind you while performing...SWEET!  ~ Serena

* You're very talented and gifted.  I can feel the MeShell Ndegeocello, Prince, and Miles Davis influence in your performances.  Best of luck to you and the new CD Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience.  ~ Greg

* I've experienced cyber jazz for a second time at the Bubble Lounge on December 27, 2005, and enjoyed it as much as the first time!  I felt deep within this is truly what you were born to do.  Your music is so passionate and heartfelt, that I can see it comes from the deepest part of your soul when you perform.  Thanks again for the cyber jazz experience.  ~ Sabrina Jones

* Thank you for sharing your beautiful cyber jazz music with us, it was very soothing.
~ Princeton Plaza Community

* You guys were great!  Your music with our lounge, created a perfect ambience.
~ Staff (The Hotel Rex)

* Great music at The Hotel Rex!  We only came down to get a cocktail or two, but ended up staying the whole two hours of your performance.  We really enjoyed it thank you, keep us informed of upcoming shows.  ~ Jason & Lisa (The Hotel Rex)

* I purchased "Black Magic The Cyber Jazz Experience" by Ajamu Akinyele the first time I visited The Almaden Oaks Plaza Fair and enjoyed it so much, I had to come back to see Ajamu Akinyele perform again, and to purchase his other CD's.  Thank you for a great performance.  P.S. I love your version of Sade's "The Sweetest Taboo."
~ Alan

* I was passing by when I heard Ajamu Akinyele w/ Gemini Soul perform "The Look of Love" and knew, I had to purchase their CD.  Their performance was incredible and their version of "The Look of Love" is amazing.  It's the best version I've ever heard.
~ Stacy

* When I saw and heard your performance at the Bubble Lounge, I saw the passion you put into your music.  Personally, I've always struggled with finding my own passion, but after seeing and hearing your performance it made me realize what passion is...from your music and performance I now know what passion looks and feels like.  Thank you for helping me find my own passion. ~ Brandy

* Professional showmanship and a great performance. ~ Dan (KIMO'S)

* Watching Ajamu Akinyele w/ Gemini Soul at the Bubble Lounge took me to another