Description
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In the digital landscape of 2026, the UK’s music industry is vibrantly revitalized by the pulsing rhythms and eclectic fusion of jazz, soul, afrobeat, and hip-hop. At the forefront of this joyful resurgence stands an unbeatable force known as Nubiyan Twist. With a unique combination of inspired composers, die-hard producers, talented players, the band has carved a distinctive blend of styles that have been entrancing audiences since their formation at the Leeds College of Music in 2011.
Nubiyan Twist’s legacy started with their self-titled debut album in 2015, followed by the critically celebrated “Jungle Run” in 2019. The group further elevated their status within Europe’s acclaimed jazz festivals, including the Supersonic and Jazz A Junas. Regular appearances followed on national broadcasts such as the BBC 6 Music, along with live performances on stages shared with industry icons like Tony Allen, Nile Rogers, and Chic. However, it was their much-anticipated fifth studio album, “Chasing Shadows”, released in 2026, that illuminated their true potential.
“Chasing Shadows” stands as a testament to the raw power of human connection in an age dominated by algorithms and screen addiction. Its marriage of vibrant jazz, punchy hip-hop, electric afrobeat, and immersive electronic elements signifies the group’s commitment to exploring the interaction between analog and digital. Leading the album’s direction, bandleader and producer Tom Excell shared his key objective: To make something rejoicing and decidedly human, something that can’t be replicated by artificial intelligence.
Implementing an array of heavyweight features, “Chasing Shadows” invites different voices from the music community. Notable track features include Malian sensation Fatoumata Diawara who infuses her energy into the title track, and the London dancehall favorite, Mr Williamz. Joe Armon-Jones orchestrates the dub workout ‘Rhythm Of You’, while ‘Threads’ sees piano impacts from Patrice Rushen. The Pharcyde’s Bootie Brown and Ghanaian MC M.anifest collaborate with the band, reflecting Nubiyan Twist’s hip-hop roots.
A landmark in Nubiyan Twist’s discography, “Chasing Shadows”, transcends geographical boundaries, offering an unapologetic celebration of our universal strength. With every rhythm and melody, the album captures the irreplaceable chemistry and organized chaos created by genuine human collaboration. Under Tom Excell’s expert tutorship and the soul-stirring vocals of Eniola, a graduate of Trinity Laban Conservatoire in London, this transition has been as innovative as it has been successful.
“Chasing Shadows” showcases the band’s relentless pursuit of artistic evolution, offering listeners a unique fusion of diverse influences. As eloquently put by Rolling Stone in their review of the album, it is indeed “energy, rhythm, youthfulness, madness, precision, and multiple influences.” The future indeed looks bright for fans of Nubiyan Twist, as they continue to redefine the UK music scene in their quest for unique musical expressions. Drawing from varied traditions, this nine-piece ensemble is a testament to the endless possibilities when diversity comes together in remarkable harmony.
