EOOI - Iba Babaluaye ati Erinle Ajaja

This presentation is a video saluting Orisa Babaluaye Soponna, Orisa Erinle and Orisa Ajaja in song and dance. The beginning dialogue between the elder (Agba) and youth (Omo) explains the importance of calling upon these Orisa in this Pandemic period. The Oriki (songs) used in this video as a litany to summon the Orisa, are not sung traditionally in this format in Trinidad and Tobago. However, they both create an atmosphere of preparation for worship and admiration for Imale and Orisa.

We have chosen to use the aspect of Babaluaye known to us as Bosiwo. This aspect of Babaluaye uses a Boli (Calabash) of medicine which cures various diseases, plagues and illnesses. We have also chosen to use Orisa Ajaja who is known as the sibling of Erinle. As warrior energy of the forest, Ajaja uses a dagga to eliminate and eradicate all negative energies to promote cleansing and healing.

The video climaxes where both Orisa work together in the spirit realm to ensure healing and restoration throughout Trinidad and Tobago and around the world. The last musical item utilises only percussive sounds and vocals which is reminiscent of the way our ancestors would have channelled these vibrations from this physical realm of existence. Do Enjoy!

CREDITS
Videography: Morris Media
Audio Recording: Karlie Morris
Mixing: Karlie Morris
Lead vocalist: Michael Olumbe Diaz
Supporting vocalists: Stephen Pascall, Adeifa Diaz, Asha Olaosun Diaz, Latoya Rodriguez and Sheena Ajibola Richardson
Drummers: Jaleel Vincent, Mickey Babafemi Belgrove and Robert Cox
Dancers: Akeem De Frietas and Patriann Ifawunmi Edwards
Percussion: Jarrod O'Garro
Costuming: Patriann Ifawunmi Edwards and Danz Elements Cloth
Location: Fondes Amandes Community Reforestation Project
Special thanks to Akilah and Ajamu Jaramogi.