Founded by Tom Excel, the ten-member Nubiyan Twist band is made up from exceptional musicians, singers and producers, who are talked about as first-class stars of British Afrojazz, and the band has only reinforced its position with its second album Jungle Run.
A blend of virtuosic players, skilled producers and inspired composers join forces to create a unique, infectious sound drawing on jazz, hip-hop, afrobeat, dancehall, soul, reggae and dance music – expect ultra-tight musicianship and a powerful, big band sound.
2024 sees Nubiyan Twist embark on a fresh musical odyssey with the announcement of their vibrant fourth album ‘Find Your Flame’. Over 12 tracks, the band seamlessly weave together global grooves, soul and jazz; expertly intertwined with electronic elements, horn-led melodies and spontaneous improvisation.
The heady, sun-drenched release is peppered with impressive collaborations, including the iconic Nile Rodgers who brings his trademark disco mastery to new single ‘Lights Out’.
Alongside Nile Rodgers, Nubiyan Twist have enlisted artists from across the globe including Seun Kuti and Mamani Keita as well as homegrown UK talent corto.alto, Ria Moran, K.O.G. & NEONE the Wonderer. The album also marks a significant evolution for the group, welcoming Sheffield-based vocalist Aziza Jaye to the forefront.
Bandleader and producer Tom Excell says, “As with the creation of all our albums, it’s a snapshot of our collective influences and journeys throughout the time it was made. A catharsis for our struggles, yet a vessel for our joy. Navigating through COVID, the magic of becoming a new parent, undergoing a vital leg amputation, recovering from car accidents, losing loved ones and forming new friendships have all shaped this music. But most importantly, the collaborative process helped reignite a liberating fire of resistance in each of us.”
‘Find Your Flame’ is set for release on 3rd May via Strut Records.
“A beautiful blend of groovy dub with uplifting horns and soulful vocals” The Guardian
“A free-flowing assemblage of jazz, soul, hip hop and diasporic styles.” Mojo
“A cauldron of energy that bubbles with invention. Exhilarating stuff.” Record Collector
“The type of record that should be blasted over a sun-drenched festival crowd.” Clash
“An elegant yet earthy hybrid of jazz, UK soul and highlife” Uncut
“Nubiyan Twist take a leap out of the densely packed crowd of UK jazz with Freedom Fables, a summation of the group’s talent that sees them elevated into the highest tier of their cohort” Loud And Quiet
“Nubiyan Twist explore oppressive mindsets while maintaining danceable momentum.” Jazzwise
“Energy, rhythm, youthfulness, madness, precision and multiple influences.” Rolling Stone
“Vibrant and vivacious” BBC Music
“Jazztastic Afro-kissed funk.” NARC