Incognito is a pioneering British acid jazz band, formed in 1979 by Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick and Paul "Tubbs" Williams, celebrated for their fusion of funk, soul, and R&B. With a dynamic sound shaped by diverse influences and a powerful live presence, they have captivated audiences worldwide, earning acclaim and a loyal following over nearly four decades.
Incognito is a British acid jazz band formed in 1979 by Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick and Paul "Tubbs" Williams as an offshoot of the band Light of the World. This ensemble has evolved into a significant figure in the UK music scene, blending acid jazz, funk, soul, and R&B. Led by Bluey, who is also a singer, guitarist, composer, and producer, the group has created a distinctive sound characterized by its dynamic rhythms and rich themes.
Bluey was born on the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean and moved to London at the age of 10. Immersing himself in London’s vibrant music scene, he developed eclectic tastes influenced by artists like Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, Roberta Flack, and Joni Mitchell. This diverse array of influences has shaped the unique sound of Incognito, propelling them into international acclaim.
Incognito released their debut album "Jazz Funk" in 1981, which reached the British Top 30. Despite this early success, the band experienced a period of relative inactivity throughout the 1980s due to the shifting musical landscape toward punk. During this time, Bluey continued to write for the group while also producing for other artists.
The band's significant breakthrough arrived in 1991 with their cover of Ronnie Laws' "Always There" featuring Jocelyn Brown, climbing to No. 6 in the UK charts. This success led to their signing with Gilles Peterson's Talkin' Loud label, marking a new chapter of growth and recognition.
The music of Incognito is characterized by a fusion of acid jazz, funk, soul, and R&B influences, featuring various vocalists over the years such as Linda Muriel, Maysa Leak, Tony Momrelle, Imaani, Vanessa Haynes, and Joy Malcolm. Their discography includes numerous albums, with 13 of them reaching the Top 10 of Billboard's Jazz Albums chart. Notable albums include:- "Tribes Vibes and Scribes" (1992)- "Positivity" (1993)- "100° and Rising" (1995)
Their music often captures socially conscious themes inspired by Bluey's personal experiences and observations, making them not just entertainers, but narrators of broader life stories.
Incognito's dynamic live performances have been central to their enduring success, typically featuring a 12-15 member ensemble often accompanied by an orchestra section. Their imposing live presence has fostered a loyal global fan base. The group’s contributions to jazz and popular music were acknowledged with a MOBO Award for Best Jazz Act in 2001.
Incognito's involvement in the remix scene is highlighted by collaborations with renowned DJs and producers like Masters at Work, David Morales, and Roger Sanchez, further showcasing their adaptability and innovation.
As a group, they continue to tour and release new music, celebrating nearly 40 years of crafting their distinct sound.
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