In Focus: XamVolo
If you haven’t heard of XamVolo, where have you been? The 23-year-old London-born and
Liverpool-based artist, otherwise known as Sam Folorunsho, is becoming a name to remember in the
UK music scene. Against an industry saturated with grime, rap, afrobeats and rap, XamVolo makes a
refreshing addition with his silky dulcet tones and blends of jazz, electronic and neo-soul. This year
has been a whirlwind for the star – he’s supported Paloma Faith on her 15-date Architect tour,
knocked out a headline show at Omeara, released his new EP A Damn Fine Spectacle and with a
performance on COLORS, it’s looking like XamVolo is, in the words of Gilles Peterson, ‘making jazz
relevant again’.
It’s great to be speaking to you, XamVolo. Congratulations on your headline show at Omeara! How
did it feel to be headlining at the iconic venue?
It was great, glad so many people came down. The sound in the venue is pretty solid which is always
a good thing. Always a rewarding feeling when people know the words too.
You toured with Paloma Faith on her Architect tour. How was that?
It was an intense experience performing in front of so many people every night but I loved it.
Paloma and her band/crew were great – the whole thing felt a little larger than life. A few people
have said they liked the set, too – still appreciating the opportunity and glad to part of it.
A few years ago, you were studying Architecture. What propelled you into the path of music?
Architecture wasn't really an interest of mine to begin with; I was just under pressure to choose a
course and I was drawn to the creative aspect of such a subject. I had been doing music as a hobby
since 2007, so when opportunities came for me to do more in that world, it wasn't a hard decision to
make.
How would you describe your sound?
Electronic Neo-Soul.. for the most part.
You’re based in Liverpool. How does the music scene differ to London?
A lot more guitar-driven bands, a lot smaller, but also a lot more encouragement and desire to be
unique. Hard workers in Liverpool; something's about to happen, I reckon.
Who are you listening to at the moment? Are there any names you’d love to collaborate with?
I've always wanted to feature with some producers.. maybe KAYTRANADA or Lido. Also maybe
instrumentalists like Robert Glasper and Terrace Martin. A band feature might be interesting. Just
something interesting, you know?
What are your plans for the rest of 2018?
Looking forward to releasing a bunch of new music, also looking forward to new shows, new
experiences – I'm excited for everything. Hoping for a great rest of year.
XamVolo will be performing at Camden Assembly on Friday 10th August. Buy tickets here
Listen to XamVolo’s EP A Damn Fine Spectacle here
Words: Mireille Cassandra Harper