Following their 2017 effort, the collective’s first album will be released on April 26th. Featuring appearances of Loyle Carner, KOKOROKO and Jorja Smith.
Photo © Dan Medhurst
Formed by bandleader Femi Koleoso (drums), his brother TJ Koleoso (bass), Joe Armon-Jones (keys), Dylan Jones (trumpet), and James Mollison (saxophone), London quintet Ezra Collective is one of the most exciting bands of the new English Jazz scene.
Drawing from Afrobeat, Latin music, as well as from Hip-Hop and Grime – their unique blend and inclusive approach to music has seen them break out way beyond the thriving UK Jazz scene. Their 2017 EP Juan Pablo: The Philosopher earned them Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide ‘Best Jazz Album’ Award, just as their unmatched stage energy also earned them Jazz FM’s ‘Best UK Jazz Act’ and ‘Live Experience Of The Year’ Awards in 2018
Their debut album, You Can’t Steal My Joy, features friends and fans, Loyle Carner, KOKOROKO and Jorja Smith (on the song “Reason In Disguise” released last year). The release is preceded by lead single and full-blown banger “What Am I to Do”, featuring London rapper Loyle Carner.