Nubiyan Twist is an eclectic musical collective that fuses jazz, hip-hop, afrobeat, and more, creating a vibrant soundscape led by guitarist Tom Excell and vocalist Aziza Jaye. With a commitment to social causes and a dynamic live presence, they continue to innovate and inspire within the indie jazz and soul scenes.
Nubiyan Twist is a dynamic musical collective hailing from Leeds and now based in London. Founded in 2011 at the Leeds College of Music, the band was spearheaded by guitarist and producer Tom Excell and co-founded with Aziza Jaye. Known for their eclectic sound, they seamlessly blend genres such as jazz, hip-hop, afrobeat, latin, soul, reggae, and electronic dance music.
The ensemble's composition has ranged from nine to twelve members, featuring notable talents such as:
Nubiyan Twist is recognized for its robust horn section, soulful vocals, live dubs/electronics, turntablism, and a lively rhythm section. Their sound is an infectious mix of styles, offering a unique musical experience.
Nubiyan Twist's discography boasts:
The band has earned acclaim for both their live performances and studio recordings. They have graced prestigious stages globally, including Queen Elizabeth Hall for David Byrne's Meltdown Festival, London's Jazz Cafe, and renowned festivals like Glastonbury, Shambala, and Boomtown.
Their second album, "Freedom Fables," marked a significant breakthrough, receiving extensive airplay on BBC 6 Music and showcasing on popular playlists. They made their UK TV debut on "Later...with Jools Holland," elevating their visibility in the UK music scene.
Anticipation is high for "Find Your Flame," which features collaborations with distinguished artists. The single "Lights Out" includes contributions from Nile Rodgers, exemplifying their capability to fuse different musical styles. The album introduces new vocalist Aziza Jaye, enriching their sound further.
Their music often resonates with themes of resilience, empowerment, and socio-political commentary, drawing from personal experiences and cultural narratives. Committed to social causes, Nubiyan Twist leverages their platform for philanthropic efforts and raising awareness on critical issues.
The ensemble's creative methodology is a collaborative venture, with members contributing their diverse musical obsessions and expertise. They are dedicated to fostering artistic and social unity across cultures and musical genres.
As of 2024, Nubiyan Twist continues to innovate while staying true to their roots, influencing the indie jazz and soul scenes and inspiring emerging artists. Dedicated to preserving vinyl culture, they have a steadfast following among vinyl aficionados.
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