In recent years, London's vibrant jazz scene has produced many talents who are making a name for themselves internationally. One of the frontrunners of this golden generation is the eight-strong collective Kokoroko. Bandleader Sheila Maurice-Grey's formation delivers everything that makes the acclaimed West African urban roots sound so appealing: a contemporary improvisation on echoes of the past that is totally unique. Kokoroko recently released their debut album Could We Be More (2022) on Gilles Peterson's acclaimed Brownswood Recordings. It’s laced with energy and pride and draws on the diversity of musical styles, such as Afrobeat, seventies orchestral soul, jazz and funk, that characterizes the multicultural makeup of the UK's capital city. Expect a dazzling celebration of modern creativity and spirituality at Kokoroko's debut at the festival, with the musical spirit of legends like Fela Kuti and Donald Byrd never far away.
