London jazz-meets-Afrobeat collective KOKOROKO return with double A-side 12inch single
Following up their breakthrough self-titled debut EP in 2019, the London-based jazz-infused Afrobeat collective KOKOROKO, led by trumpeter and vocalist Sheila Maurice-Grey, returns with a much-anticipated follow-up double A-side 12″ single on Brownswood, featuring two superb tracks in “Baba Ayoola” and “Carry Me Home”.
Building off the foundation of the group’s first recording, “Baby Ayoola” blends together West African and Afrobeat rhythms, with soaring horn melodies, cosmic tones, enchanting guitar riffs, and soulful vocal harmonies. The uplifting track was written as a tribute to the grandfather of the band’s alto saxophonist Cassie Kinoshi and is “an invitation to celebrate life”.
On the flip, “Carry Me Home” maintains the same musical foundation, with a slightly more uptempo groove and with a fantastic solo from Maurice-Grey, which leads the way along with the songs layered vocals. The track was inspired by conversations with pioneering Nigerian-British musician Dele Sosimi, and the strong influence he has had on the group.
Featuring an impressive cast of musicians, the eight piece band also includes trombonist and vocalist Richie Seivwright, keyboardist Yohan Kebede, bassist Duane Atherley, guitarist Tobi Adenaike, percussionist Onome Edgeworth, and drummer Ayo Salawu.
Even though we all eagerly wait for what will hopefully be a full-length debut in the near future, this double A-side single is absolutely brilliant, and continues to prove that this is one of the forward-thinking groups currently paving the way in today’s London music scene.
KOKOROKO — ‘Baba Ayoola / Carry Me Home’ 12″
(Brownswood Recordings)
A SIDE: Baba Ayoola
B SIDE: Carry Me Home
