The Revival of UK Jazz

Image: Isabelle Dohmen

Brick Lane’s Jazz Festival was a wave of revival. As a proudly female-led festival, founded by Juliet Kennedy, the long weekend celebrated the freshest artists on the UK’s thriving jazz scene - and it didn’t disappoint. 

With streams of people waiting eagerly outside Rough Trade East, Ego Ella May captivated a full house with succulent tones of reflection and healing. With loved-up couples swaying to ‘Take It Easy’ in an elevated bubble, the red room’s disco ball reflected a glistening night of connection. We were treated to a teased preview of Ego Ella May’s unreleased record, ‘What You Waiting For?’ The funky track juxtaposed a locked-in mellow set, hinting of the promise of Spring. Ms May, if you’re reading this - definitely put it on the album! We’re ready… In your own pre-emptive words, what you waiting for?

Image: Courtesy Ninety One Brick Lane

Roaming to 93 Feet East, Melodiesinfonie & The Sugarpies brought their chilled vibes all the way from Zurich, Switzerland. With a sunshine state of mind, Melodiesinfonie became the heartbeat of 93’s live room; mid-way through, the drums stopped pulsing to leave space for the revelation of the delicate intentions behind ’Softboi’, their latest album. As the band slowly knelt down, we were encouraged to get introspective, to let go of the shields and masks that halt deeper intimacy and growth. We were drawn closer to a space where compassion reigns and empathy cherished. In a world challenged with inflation, genocide and a climate crisis, alongside the crumbling of old systems and the rise of the divine feminine, one truth echoed in a moment of silence: our need to stay soft with ourselves and each other. 

Image: Isabelle Dohmen

Raising our energy levels back up, we made our way through the maze of East London’s streets. Closing Juju’s Bar and Stage on a Friday night was Mackwood and a 6 piece band. In an ethereal set that seemed to arrive from an otherworldly place of synths, accordions and unexpected transitions, the packed-out place was thrumming with charged energy.

Typically, at a Jazz Festival, you never truly know who you’re vibing next to. After snapping a couple of pictures from the audience with a disposable camera, special guest singer, songwriter Kianja came on stage like a force of nature. Her depth and soul permeated the space as she riffed: ‘Can’t really win if you’re too afraid of losing’. Eerf Evil, conscious rapper and co-founder of The Silhouettes Project, also took over the stage with purpose. With the release of his new single ‘Yella!’, Mackwood left everyone anticipating a weekend of progressive heights of majesty. Opening night was unforgettable.

Image: Isabelle Dohmen

Friday’s explosive energy dispersed into the weekend. With time to stroll around Brick Lane’s vintage markets, its underground treasures uncovered an eclectic range of classic vinyls, thrifted gems and must-have bagels.

In the heart of Rich Mix, Jessy Blakemore graced Silhoette’s stage. Over the chilled whispers of an acoustic guitar, Blakemore’s breathy vocals captivated a room to silent awe. Her quiet confidence lulled us on a rainy afternoon, as we anticipated her first official release next month. 

Image: Hermine Patch

The vibrant line up stretched across ten exciting music venues, including The Truman Brewery, Ninety One Living Room and Village Underground. Circling back to 93 Feet East, London-based piano player, David Kofi held an effortless set fused with jazz, gospel, funk and soul. Kofi conducted his band with unapologetic authority, leading us all to a funky record of dissonant stabs in ‘Blue City.’ Kofi left us entranced, as he took us through intense crescendos, only to bring us back down as the band exchanged smiles, taking their time to soak in the crowds. 

On an unforgettable weekend, we immersed ourselves in a diverse underground festival that celebrated talent that is boldly reshaping the jazz scene. With hopeful tones and the freeing inspiration of jazz, we improvised our way through Brick Lane’s iconic venues, filled with a sense of revival.

Image: Hermine Patch